Relentless Assault

Description

Released in 1999 as part of the Magic: The Gathering Starter set, Relentless Assault (card number 115) stands as a defining piece of early Commander format history. This red sorcery, printed with a rare treatment by Geofrey Darrow and I. Rabarot, is recognized for its unique ability to extend a player's turn beyond the standard limits. The card requires a mana cost of three red mana to cast and functions by untapping all creatures that attacked during the current turn. The strategic value of this card lies in its ability to create an additional combat phase followed by an additional main phase. This mechanic allows players to attack with their entire force of creatures twice, potentially overwhelming opponents who are not prepared for such aggressive sequences. For collectors of vintage Magic cards, this print is significant as it helped define the casual Commander format, where the extra turns provided by this card often dictate the flow of the game. The Starter set was designed to introduce new players to the game, and cards like Relentless Assault demonstrate the power of red mana in creating dynamic, fast-paced board states. Whether you are building a nostalgic collection or studying the evolution of card design in the late 1990s, this card offers a glimpse into the foundational mechanics of the game. It remains a staple for those interested in the history of Magic: The Gathering and the specific innovations introduced in the 1999 Starter release.