Overview of Legions (Magic: The Gathering)

Released on February 3, 2003, Legions is the second set in the Onslaught block and is the first creature-only expansion in Magic: The Gathering history. As the 28th expansion in the game's timeline, it contains 145 black-bordered cards (45 rares, 45 uncommons, and 55 commons), and its heraldic shield-and-spears expansion symbol reflects its tribal, combat-focused themes.

Much like the rest of the Onslaught block, Legions emphasizes tribal mechanics, reinforcing the importance of creature types in deck-building and gameplay. This set marked the highly anticipated return of Slivers, iconic creatures known for granting shared abilities to others of their kind. It also introduced Mistform Ultimus, a creature with all creature types, which later inspired the Changeling mechanic in the Lorwyn block.

Key Innovations

1. Creature-Only Concept:
   Conceived by Mike Elliott, the idea behind Legions was to demonstrate that creatures could replicate the effects of other card types like instants, sorceries, and enchantments. Despite some debate within the design team, Elliott's vision ultimately shaped the set, resulting in a unique gameplay experience.

2. Introduction of Double Strike:
   The keyword ability Double Strike was initially suggested during Scourge’s “You Make the Card” event but didn’t fit the chosen design. Instead, it debuted in Legions and became a staple mechanic in Magic.

3. Slivers' Return:
   First introduced in Tempest, Slivers reappeared in Legions to bolster the set's tribal focus. Their comeback was teased through the artwork of the Onslaught card Riptide Replicator, building excitement among players.

4. Dragons as a Lead-In to Scourge:
   Late in development, several dragons were added to foreshadow the dragon-centric themes of Scourge, the block's final set.

Impact

Legion was a bold experiment that expanded the boundaries of traditional gameplay. Its all-creature design, tribal synergies, and mechanical innovations made it memorable and influenced future sets. From the beloved Slivers to the introduction of Double Strike, Legions holds a unique place in Magic’s history as a creative exploration of what creatures can do.