Zodiac Rat

Description

Released in 1999, the Zodiac Rat is a notable entry in the Magic: The Gathering Portal Three Kingdoms expansion, identified by set code PTK and card number 98. This common creature card introduces players to a unique mechanic within the Black mana color identity. The card features a mana cost of {B} and possesses a power/toughness rating of 1/1, making it a foundational piece for early-game strategies in the Portal series. The defining feature of this card is its Swampwalk ability, which grants it a significant tactical advantage. As long as the defending player controls a Swamp land, this creature cannot be blocked. This interaction encourages deck builders to consider land selection carefully, adding a layer of strategic depth typical of the Portal Three Kingdoms design philosophy. The card's rules text is paraphrased from its original printing, preserving the essence of its evasion capability without reproducing the exact wording. For collectors, the Zodiac Rat represents a specific era of Magic: The Gathering history where simplified gameplay mechanics were used to introduce new players to complex card interactions. Enthusiasts often seek out cards from this set to complete their collections or to appreciate the distinct artistic style of the era. The artist Qi Baocheng contributed to the visual identity of the set, though collectors focus on the card's gameplay role and set context rather than individual illustration details. Building a complete set of Portal Three Kingdoms requires gathering all 100 cards, including this common rarity, making it an essential component for completionists.