Curse ArtifactHow it works & interactions with other cards

A Deadly Dilemma

Curse Artifact functions as a parasitic enchantment that targets an artifact. Once attached, it sets up a triggered ability that occurs during the upkeep of whoever currently controls the enchanted artifact. The player must make a choice: they can either sacrifice the artifact to remove the threat, or they must take 2 damage. This choice is made during the resolution of the ability.

Resolution Breakdown

The ability triggers at the start of the artifact controller's upkeep. When the ability resolves, the player is presented with the option to sacrifice the artifact. If they choose not to sacrifice it, or if they cannot (perhaps because the artifact left the battlefield before resolution), the default effect is that Curse Artifact deals 2 damage to them. If the artifact is sacrificed, Curse Artifact will also be put into the graveyard because the permanent it was enchanting no longer exists.

Strategic Considerations

Common mistakes involve forgetting that this is damage, not loss of life. This means it can be prevented by damage prevention effects. Additionally, if the controller of the artifact changes, the person who takes the damage or makes the sacrifice also changes. You should play this card on artifacts that are central to your opponent's strategy but not so essential that they would be willing to lose 10 or more life to keep them.

Interaction examples

Draining the Life Total

If you enchant an opponent's artifact with Curse Artifact, they will start their upkeep by facing the trigger. If they choose to keep the artifact, they take 2 damage. Over five turns, this single Aura can deal 10 damage for just four mana, provided the opponent is stubborn enough to keep their artifact.

Stacking Upkeep Triggers

Phyrexian Arena

If an opponent controls a Phyrexian Arena and you have enchanted their artifact with Curse Artifact, they choose the order in which these upkeep triggers are put on the stack. They could choose to draw their card from the Arena first, then resolve the Curse Artifact trigger to decide whether to sacrifice their artifact or take 2 damage.

Resource Management

Black Market Connections

If your opponent has Black Market Connections, they are likely already spending life during their main phase. By placing Curse Artifact on one of their artifacts, you pressure their life total even further. They may be forced to sacrifice their artifact to the Curse just to ensure they have enough life left to use the 'Buy Information' mode on their enchantment later in the turn.