Circuitous RouteHow it works & interactions with other cards

What it Does

Circuitous Route allows you to search your library for up to two cards that are either basic land cards or have the Gate subtype. Once found, both of these cards are put directly onto the battlefield tapped. This means you can effectively jump from four mana to six or seven mana on your next turn while also securing the specific colors of mana your deck requires.

Step-by-Step Resolution

First, you cast Circuitous Route by paying three generic and one green mana. As the spell resolves, you search your library for zero, one, or two cards that meet the criteria. You can choose two basics, two Gates, or one of each. You then place the chosen cards onto the battlefield in the tapped position. Finally, you must shuffle your library, regardless of how many cards you found.

Common Mistakes

A frequent error is trying to find non-basic lands that are not Gates, such as 'fetch lands' or 'shock lands' that lack the Gate subtype. Remember that unlike some other ramp spells, Circuitous Route does not require you to reveal the cards to your opponent before putting them into play, because the destination is a public zone (the battlefield) where the cards' types can be verified. Also, ensure you do not skip the shuffle step if you choose to find zero cards.

When to Play It

This card is best played in the mid-game when you have reached four mana. It is particularly potent in 'Gate' themed decks where fetching specific Gates can trigger other abilities or provide colors that basic lands cannot. It serves as a superior version of standard ramp when you need more than just basic lands to execute your strategy.

Interaction examples

Double the Ramp

With four lands in play, you cast Circuitous Route. You search for two basic Forest cards and put them onto the battlefield tapped. After shuffling, you pass the turn. On your next turn, you will have six mana available, having successfully ramped by two lands with a single spell.

Comparing to Cultivate

Cultivate

While Cultivate costs one less mana, it only puts one land onto the battlefield and one into your hand. Circuitous Route puts both lands onto the battlefield, providing a greater immediate boost to your total mana capacity for the following turn.

Gates vs. Basics

Kodama's Reach

If you are playing a multi-color deck, Kodama's Reach is limited to basic lands. Circuitous Route allows you to search for Gate cards, which can provide two different colors of mana each, offering much better color fixing than traditional basic-only search spells.