Eclipsed FlamekinHow it works & interactions with other cards

Understanding the Search

When Eclipsed Flamekin enters the battlefield, you are granted a peek at the top four cards of your library. You can select one card to add to your hand, but it must meet specific criteria: it has to be an Elemental creature, an Island, or a Mountain. Note that this includes basic lands, non-basic lands with those specific subtypes, and even non-creature cards if they happen to have the Elemental subtype through other mechanics.

Step-by-Step Resolution

First, the ability triggers and goes on the stack once Eclipsed Flamekin successfully enters the battlefield. As the ability resolves, you look at the top four cards of your library. You then choose whether to reveal a qualifying card; if you do, it moves to your hand. Finally, all remaining cards from the four—including the ones you didn't choose or couldn't choose—are placed on the bottom of your library in a random order.

Common Pitfalls

A common mistake is forgetting that the card must be revealed to your opponent if you choose to take it. Because the ability specifies 'Elemental, Island, or Mountain,' you must prove the card meets those requirements. Additionally, unlike some other search effects, you do not shuffle your library after putting the remaining cards on the bottom.

Strategic Timing

Because this is an 'enters' ability, it is most effective when paired with effects that double triggers or allow for flickering. Playing it early helps you hit your fourth land drop, while playing it late helps you dig for high-impact Elementals to close out the game.

Interaction examples

Doubling the Value

Roaming Throne

If you have Roaming Throne on the battlefield with 'Elemental' chosen as the creature type, Eclipsed Flamekin's ability will trigger twice. This allows you to look at the top four cards, potentially take one, put the rest on the bottom, and then immediately repeat the process for a total of eight cards viewed.

Curving Out for Value

Solemn Simulacrum

On turn three, you cast Eclipsed Flamekin to dig for a Mountain or Island, ensuring you have the four mana needed for your next turn. On turn four, you play Solemn Simulacrum to further ramp. Together, these cards provide significant card advantage and board presence, filtering your library and preparing your late-game plays.