GloomwidowHow it works & interactions with other cards

A Selective Defender

Gloomwidow has Reach, which normally allows a creature to block flyers as if it also had flying. However, Gloomwidow also carries a static ability that states it can *only* block creatures with flying. This means that despite being on the ground, it ignores non-flying attackers entirely, acting as a dedicated anti-air unit for your battlefield.

Step-by-Step Resolution

When your opponent enters the declare attackers step, you evaluate your legal blocks. First, you check if the attacking creature has flying. If it does, Gloomwidow is eligible to be assigned as a blocker. If the attacking creature does not have flying, Gloomwidow cannot be chosen to block it, even though Gloomwidow itself does not have flying.

Common Pitfalls

Players often assume that Reach allows a creature to block anything, but Gloomwidow's second ability is a restriction that overrides the standard rules of combat. If an opponent attacks with a ground creature, you cannot use Gloomwidow to block it. Furthermore, if an attacking creature loses flying after blockers are declared, Gloomwidow remains in combat with it, as the restriction only applies during the declaration of blockers.

When to Play It

Gloomwidow is an excellent inclusion when you expect to face aggressive aerial decks. Its three power allows it to trade with or destroy most early-game flyers, while its three toughness keeps it safe from smaller birds and spirits. Use it to shore up your defenses while your other creatures focus on attacking the opponent's life total.

Interaction examples

Defensive Limitations

Solemn Simulacrum

If your opponent attacks with Solemn Simulacrum, you might want to block to prevent damage. However, because Solemn Simulacrum does not have flying, Gloomwidow cannot be assigned as a blocker. The damage will go through unless you have another creature available to block.

Strategic Passing

Sakura-Tribe Elder

Imagine your opponent attacks with a flying creature and a Sakura-Tribe Elder. You can assign Gloomwidow to block the flyer. You cannot assign it to block Sakura-Tribe Elder. Even if the flyer is removed from combat before damage, Gloomwidow cannot 'switch' to the Snake Shaman because it doesn't meet the flying requirement.

Solo Stand

If Gloomwidow is your only creature and your opponent attacks with a 2/2 creature with flying, Gloomwidow can block it. During the combat damage step, Gloomwidow deals 3 damage to the flyer and takes 2 damage, successfully defending your life total.