Random card #4: Royal Assassin

This creature from Alpha was edited many times in core set. It has also a JSS promo card, that was also illustrated by Tom Wänerstrand with the same style as the card that he drew in Alpha. But this time, he didn't draw a pub because that would look out of place in Modern Magic. Artists had more freedom for illustrations at the beginning of Magic The Gathering.

It can be annoying if you play him early and manage to keep him in the battlefield. If your opponent attacks, he'll lose at least one creature. If he taps a creature for mana or an ability, he'll lose it too. You can control the battlefield and play politics with other player with him. For sure, he will be targeted by your opponents. Moreover he's too fragile.

It's the kind of old card that can shine if you have specific conditions.