Angel of RetributionHow it works & interactions with other cards

A Master of Combat

Angel of Retribution possesses two highly relevant keywords: Flying and First Strike. Flying ensures that it can only be blocked by other creatures with flying or reach, allowing it to soar over ground-based defenses. First Strike changes the timing of combat, allowing the Angel to deal its 5 damage before creatures without first strike can even land a blow.

Combat Resolution Step-by-Step

When Angel of Retribution enters combat, it follows a specific sequence. First, if it is attacking, the defender declares blockers. Because it has flying, ground units are ignored. Second, during the first strike combat damage step, the Angel deals 5 damage. If the blocker has 5 or less toughness and lacks first strike or double strike, it is destroyed before it can deal any damage back. Finally, in the normal combat damage step, any remaining survivors deal their damage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

A common error is forgetting that first strike only helps during the combat phase. If a spell or ability causes Angel of Retribution to deal damage outside of combat (such as a 'fight' effect), first strike does not apply, and both creatures deal damage simultaneously. Additionally, remember that while it is a powerful Angel, it lacks built-in protection from spells, so it remains vulnerable to targeted removal.

Strategic Placement

With a mana cost of seven, Angel of Retribution is a late-game finisher. It is best utilized in decks that can stall the game or accelerate mana production. Once on the board, it acts as a deterrent; opponents will be hesitant to attack into a 5/5 first striker, as it can kill most mid-sized creatures for free.

Interaction examples

Air Superiority with Avacyn

Avacyn, Angel of Hope

With Avacyn, Angel of Hope on the battlefield, Angel of Retribution gains indestructible. This makes the Angel of Retribution virtually impossible to kill in combat, as its first strike will likely destroy attackers, and any damage it does receive from larger creatures won't destroy it.

The Mana Value Gap

Sun Titan

If you are looking to recur your threats, keep in mind that Sun Titan can only return permanents with mana value 3 or less. Since Angel of Retribution has a mana value of 7, it cannot be brought back by the Titan's ability, requiring other methods of graveyard recursion.

Defensive Dominance

When used alone as a blocker, Angel of Retribution can stop an incoming 5/5 creature with no abilities. Because of first strike, the Angel deals 5 damage first, lethal to the attacker, and the attacker is removed from combat before it can deal damage to the Angel.