Why Is Earthbind Banned in MTG?
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The straightforward answer is that Earthbind is not banned in any major format of Magic: The Gathering (MTG). This might come as a surprise, given its controversial history, but the card is actually perfectly legal to play in formats where cards from its era are allowed, most notably Legacy and Vintage. The reason many associate Earthbind with a ban stems from a different aspect of its history: its omission from a crucial reprint. Let’s dive deeper into the card’s past and present.
Earthbind’s Infamous History
Earthbind, an Ice Age era card from 1995, was one of several cards that were not reprinted in the Fourth Edition core set, also released in 1995. This deliberate exclusion was not arbitrary; rather, it was a direct consequence of the card’s artwork. The depiction on Earthbind features a scantily-clad fairy being bound in a suggestive position. At the time, this imagery was deemed overtly sexual and inappropriate for the increasingly diverse audience that MTG was attracting, particularly younger players.
The Era of Controversial Artwork
The decision to exclude Earthbind from Fourth Edition was not an isolated event. Several other cards from early MTG sets were also omitted from this reprint, all due to their controversial imagery. These cards featured, among other things, depictions of religious symbolism or explicit violence. The exclusion of these cards reflected a growing awareness and sensitivity by Wizards of the Coast to the need for more inclusive and appropriate content in their game.
Understanding the Nuance: Banned vs. Not Reprinted
It’s crucial to understand the distinction between a card being banned and a card being not reprinted. A banned card is explicitly prohibited from play in a particular format due to its power level, disruptive gameplay, or other problematic characteristics. A card that is not reprinted simply means that the card has not been included in a subsequent edition of the game. This might be due to artistic considerations, lack of space in a set, or simply because the card is not deemed useful or necessary for the current game environment.
In the case of Earthbind, the card was not banned for power reasons. It was omitted from a reprint (and essentially from a large portion of the player base at the time) due to the problematic nature of its artwork. Earthbind’s omission can be seen as a sort of soft “banning,” but technically, it is still legal in formats where its original printing is allowed.
Modern Context: The Shift in Sensibilities
Today, Wizards of the Coast has a much more stringent process for approving card artwork and themes. The company has made an effort to be more inclusive and sensitive to diverse perspectives. Cards that would have been acceptable in the 1990s are not likely to be printed today, showing the shift in societal standards and the company’s willingness to adapt.
While Earthbind is not banned for gameplay reasons, the historical context surrounding its exclusion from Fourth Edition serves as a valuable reminder of the importance of responsible representation in games.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Earthbind legal in Commander?
Yes, Earthbind is legal in Commander. It’s important to remember that legality in Commander is based on whether a card is on the banned list, not whether it was included in core sets. Because Earthbind is not on the banned list, it is legal.
2. What is the difference between “banned” and “not legal”?
A banned card was once legal within a format but was subsequently removed due to excessive power or disruption. A card that is “not legal” never met the format’s criteria for legality in the first place (i.e. it’s from a set not legal in the format).
3. Is Earthbind powerful enough to warrant a ban in a format?
No, Earthbind is not generally considered to be overly powerful. Its effect—restricting a flying creature from attacking or blocking—is situational and not game-breaking. The card is considered playable in some decks but is not a format-defining powerhouse.
4. What other cards were excluded from Fourth Edition due to controversial art?
Several cards were excluded, including those depicting strong religious themes or extreme violence. These choices were made to ensure a more inclusive experience for all players, with Wizards acknowledging that certain imagery could be alienating or offensive.
5. Why are some cards banned in Commander but legal in other formats?
Commander is a unique format that prioritizes varied and enjoyable games. Cards that might not be overpowered in 1v1 formats can become problematic in a multiplayer environment. The Commander banlist is curated to address the specific dynamics of the format.
6. Are there other MTG cards with overly sexualized or controversial artwork?
Yes, several older cards feature artwork that is now considered controversial. As the game evolved, Wizards of the Coast implemented stricter guidelines to ensure that artwork is more inclusive and less problematic.
7. Is the art on Earthbind an official part of the card?
Yes, the artwork on the original Earthbind card is the official art. There has been no alternative artwork ever created for it.
8. What are MTG proxies and are they legal?
Proxies are substitute cards used in place of real cards. They are not legal in sanctioned tournaments, but they are often used for casual play and testing purposes.
9. Why are some MTG cards restricted instead of banned?
Restricted cards are limited to one copy per deck in formats like Vintage. This is different than banning them outright. Restrictions are usually reserved for cards that are very powerful but not problematic enough to warrant a complete ban.
10. Can you alter the artwork on MTG cards?
Yes, altered art cards are legal if the original card is recognizable, the alterations do not obscure the card’s functionality, and the alterations do not include offensive content. The head judge will have the final decision.
11. How does MTG decide which cards to reprint?
The choice of cards to reprint is based on various factors, including a card’s playability, its demand in the secondary market, and whether it is relevant for the themes of the specific set. Considerations of past problematic artworks also play a key part.
12. What are silver-bordered and acorn-stamped cards?
Silver-bordered cards are from “Un-” sets and are usually not legal in constructed formats, due to wacky or nonsensical rules. Acorn-stamped cards are the new mechanic from the set Unfinity, and identify the cards that are not legal in constructed formats.
13. Are the Universes Beyond cards legal?
Universes Beyond cards, such as the Warhammer 40,000 and Lord of the Rings sets, are legal in specific formats. Generally, they are legal in formats like Commander, Legacy, and Vintage, but not in Standard, Pioneer, or Modern.
14. Was Earthbind ever intended to be a powerful card?
No, Earthbind was designed to be a situational answer to flying creatures. It was never intended to be a game-breaking card. Its controversial artwork is the most memorable aspect of its history, not its power.
15. Where can I find a comprehensive list of MTG banned and restricted cards?
Wizards of the Coast publishes an up-to-date list of banned and restricted cards on their official website and associated channels. Always refer to the official list for the most accurate information.
In conclusion, Earthbind’s tale is a compelling case study in the evolution of MTG, illustrating the game’s transformation from its early, less regulated days to a more inclusive and conscious modern era. While not “banned” in the traditional sense, its exclusion from Fourth Edition due to its controversial art serves as an essential reminder of the importance of ethical representation in gaming.