Grim TutorHow it works & interactions with other cards

Unrestricted Access

Grim Tutor is a powerful sorcery that lets you search your library for any card. Unlike many other tutors, you do not have to reveal the card you choose to your opponents. Once you find your card, you put it directly into your hand, shuffle your library, and then lose 3 life as the final part of the spell's resolution.

Resolving the Search

When you cast Grim Tutor, you first pay the mana cost. Upon resolution, you look through your library and select one card. You do not show this card to anyone. After placing the card in your hand, you must shuffle your library. Finally, the life loss occurs. Because the life loss is part of the effect and not a cost, you will still lose 3 life even if your library is empty and you find nothing.

Strategic Considerations

A common mistake is forgetting the mandatory 3 life loss, which happens regardless of what card you find. Unlike spells where life loss is a cost, if Grim Tutor is countered, you do not lose any life. Always ensure you have at least 3 life remaining before the spell resolves, or the search for power will be your last act in the game.

Interaction examples

Finding a Board Wipe

Toxic Deluge

If the opponent has a dangerous army, you can cast Grim Tutor to find Toxic Deluge. You put Toxic Deluge into your hand, shuffle, and lose 3 life. On your next main phase, you can cast Toxic Deluge, paying even more life to clear the board.

Efficiency Comparison

Demonic Tutor

While Demonic Tutor is more mana-efficient at two mana and carries no life penalty, Grim Tutor serves as a vital redundant copy of this effect. Both cards allow you to search for any card without revealing it, but Grim Tutor requires a heavier investment of both mana and health.