Portal, released in May 1997, was the first Magic: The Gathering set created specifically to teach new players. It featured simplified rules, no instants (only “sorceries”), and minimal keywords, with clean layouts and straightforward creature combat. The set focused on basic gameplay concepts and included reprints of staple effects using beginner-friendly wording. While not tournament-legal at release, many cards were later made legal in Eternal formats. Portal is now a collectible piece of Magic’s history, known for its accessibility and as the starting point for the Portal product line.