Creakwood LiegeHow it works & interactions with other cards

A Dual-Color Anthem

Creakwood Liege possesses two separate static abilities: one that grants +1/+1 to other black creatures you control, and another that grants +1/+1 to other green creatures you control. These abilities are cumulative; if a creature is both black and green, it benefits from both bonuses for a total of +2/+2.

Resolving the Upkeep Trigger

At the start of your upkeep, the token-generating ability triggers. As the ability resolves, you choose whether or not to create a 1/1 black and green Worm creature token. Because this token is both colors, it immediately benefits from the Liege's own anthem effects as soon as it enters the battlefield, effectively entering as a 3/3 creature.

Common Pitfalls

Players often forget that Creakwood Liege does not buff itself, as its abilities specify 'other' creatures. Additionally, it is important to note that the token creation is optional; you 'may' create the Worm, which can be relevant in rare board states involving forced attacks or negative triggers.

Strategic Timing

Since the token generation happens during your upkeep, playing the Liege during your second main phase is usually the safest move. This ensures the Liege is on the battlefield when your next turn begins, allowing you to create a Worm before your opponent can interact at sorcery speed.

Interaction examples

Self-Sustaining Army

Worm

Step 1: At the beginning of your upkeep, Creakwood Liege's ability triggers. Step 2: You choose to create a 1/1 black and green Worm creature token. Step 3: Because the Worm is black, it gets +1/+1. Because it is green, it gets another +1/+1. The result is a 3/3 Worm token.

Buffing Utility Creatures

Eternal Witness

With Creakwood Liege on the battlefield, you cast Eternal Witness. When Eternal Witness enters, it triggers its own ability to return a card from the graveyard. Simultaneously, Creakwood Liege's static ability applies. Since Eternal Witness is green, it becomes a 3/2 creature instead of a 2/1.

Artifact Interaction

Solemn Simulacrum

You control both Creakwood Liege and Solemn Simulacrum. Because Solemn Simulacrum is a colorless artifact creature, it is neither black nor green. Therefore, it receives no bonus from Creakwood Liege and remains a 2/2.