Aethershield ArtificerHow it works & interactions with other cards

What It Does

Aethershield Artificer features a triggered ability that activates at the start of your combat phase. It targets exactly one artifact creature you control, granting it +2/+2 and the indestructible keyword until the end of the turn. This makes the chosen creature immune to lethal damage and effects that specifically use the word "destroy," allowing it to survive combat or most board wipes.

How It Resolves Step by Step

First, as you enter the 'Beginning of Combat' step on your turn, the ability triggers and you must choose a target artifact creature. Second, the ability is put onto the stack; players may respond with spells or abilities. Third, if the target is still legal as the ability resolves, the creature gains +2/+2 and indestructible. Finally, these bonuses remain active through the end of the combat phase and the second main phase, only wearing off during the cleanup step.

Common Mistakes

A frequent error is trying to target a non-artifact creature; the target must have the 'Artifact' type to be valid. Additionally, remember that indestructible does not protect against effects that reduce a creature's toughness to 0, such as -1/-1 counters or 'give -X/-X' effects. Lastly, the ability triggers automatically at the start of combat, so you cannot wait until after blockers are declared to choose your target.

When to Play It

You should play Aethershield Artificer when you have a board presence that relies on key artifact creatures. It is best used to force through damage with a creature that your opponent would otherwise be able to trade with in combat. Because the protection lasts until end of turn, it also serves as a shield against sorcery-speed removal during your post-combat main phase.

Interaction examples

Value and Protection

Solemn Simulacrum

At the beginning of your combat, you target Solemn Simulacrum with the Artificer's ability. The Simulacrum becomes a 4/4 with indestructible. You can now attack freely; even if your opponent blocks with a creature with 4 or more power, your Simulacrum survives to provide its 'dies' trigger later in the game when you actually want it to happen.

Double Shielding

Roaming Throne

If you control Roaming Throne and chose 'Dwarf' as it entered the battlefield, the Artificer's ability triggers an additional time at the start of combat. You can target Roaming Throne with both triggers to make it a massive 8/8 indestructible Golem Dwarf, or target two different artifact creatures to spread the +2/+2 and indestructible buffs across your board.