Body of ResearchHow it works & interactions with other cards

What it does

When you cast Body of Research, you create a green and blue Fractal creature token. The spell then counts how many cards are currently in your library and places that many +1/+1 counters on the token. Since the token is naturally a 0/0, its entire power and toughness are determined by the size of your deck at the moment the spell resolves.

How it resolves step by step

First, you pay the mana cost of three Green and three Blue mana. Upon resolution, the game checks your library count immediately. A 0/0 Fractal token enters the battlefield, and simultaneously, the counters are placed on it. The token does not die for having zero toughness because the counters are applied as part of the same effect that creates it.

Common Mistakes

Players often forget that the number of counters is locked in only when the spell resolves. If you draw cards or mill yourself in response to the spell, the Fractal will be smaller. Additionally, the token has no inherent protection; while it can be massive, it is still vulnerable to simple 'destroy' spells or being bounced back to your hand, which would cause the token to cease to exist.

When to play it

This spell is best utilized in the mid-to-late game when you have stabilized the board. Since it costs six specific colored mana, you need a solid mana base. It pairs exceptionally well with cards that care about the power of creatures you control or cards that give your creatures Haste or Trample to ensure the massive Fractal can connect with the opponent.

Interaction examples

Massive Card Draw

Body of ResearchRishkar's Expertise

After creating a massive Fractal with Body of Research, you can cast Rishkar's Expertise. Since the Fractal's power is equal to your library size (minus the Body of Research spell itself), you will likely draw enough cards to refill your hand entirely, provided you have enough cards left in your deck to draw.

Life Gain and Board Presence

Body of ResearchShamanic Revelation

If you have a Fractal token created by Body of Research with 4 or more counters, casting Shamanic Revelation will trigger the Ferocious ability. You will draw a card for each creature you control and gain 4 life for the Fractal, plus 4 life for any other large creatures on your board.

Solo Performance

Body of Research

If you cast Body of Research while you have 40 cards left in your library, you create a 40/40 green and blue Fractal creature token. This immediately becomes the largest threat on the board, requiring the opponent to have a removal spell or a way to block a creature with high power.