Cloud DragonHow it works & interactions with other cards

What It Does

Cloud Dragon is a 5/4 creature with Flying, making it an effective offensive threat. However, it carries a specific keyword restriction: it can only block other creatures that also have Flying. This means that even if a creature is attacking you on the ground, Cloud Dragon must remain idle unless the attacker has gained the Flying ability through a spell or effect.

Step-by-Step Resolution

When you cast Cloud Dragon, it enters the battlefield like any other creature spell. Once it is on the field, its static abilities apply immediately. During your opponent's Declare Attackers step, if they attack with a creature without Flying, you cannot choose Cloud Dragon as a blocker for that creature. During your Declare Attackers step, you can attack with Cloud Dragon as normal, and the opponent can block it with any creature that has Flying or Reach.

Common Mistakes

A frequent misconception is that Cloud Dragon can block creatures with Reach. While creatures with Reach can block Cloud Dragon, Cloud Dragon itself cannot block a creature with Reach unless that creature also has Flying. Additionally, remember that Cloud Dragon is an Illusion and a Dragon; while it doesn't have the 'sacrifice when targeted' clause found on many modern Illusions, it still follows all standard creature rules.

When to Play It

Cloud Dragon is best utilized in decks that need a high-power evasive finisher. Because it cannot block grounded units, it is most effective when paired with other control elements that can stall the board or return threats to the hand, allowing the Dragon to win the race in the air.

Interaction examples

Evasive Maneuvers

Psychosis Crawler

If your opponent attacks you with Psychosis Crawler, Cloud Dragon cannot be declared as a blocker because Psychosis Crawler does not have Flying. You will have to take the damage based on your opponent's hand size, but you can strike back with Cloud Dragon on your turn for 5 damage since Psychosis Crawler cannot block flying creatures.

Clearing the Path

Hullbreaker Horror

You have Cloud Dragon on the field, but your opponent has a large flyer preventing you from attacking. You cast Hullbreaker Horror. When the Horror's triggered ability goes on the stack, you target the opponent's flying creature and return it to their hand. Now, Cloud Dragon can attack freely without fear of being blocked by the only creature capable of stopping it.