Jace's ErasureHow it works & interactions with other cards

Understanding the Trigger

Jace's Erasure features a triggered ability that watches for the specific action of drawing a card. Because it says 'you may,' you have the choice to mill the target player or not each time the ability resolves. It is important to note that this only triggers when the word 'draw' is explicitly used; effects that put cards directly into your hand without drawing them will not activate this enchantment.

Resolving Multiple Draws

If an effect causes you to draw multiple cards at once, Jace's Erasure triggers once for each card drawn. However, the spell or ability causing the draws must finish resolving completely before any of the Erasure triggers are placed on the stack. Once placed on the stack, you choose a target for each individual trigger, allowing you to target different players or the same player multiple times.

Common Pitfalls

Players often forget that the draw must happen while Jace's Erasure is already on the battlefield. If a spell draws you three cards but Jace's Erasure enters the battlefield as part of that spell's resolution, it will not trigger for those specific cards. Additionally, keep in mind that milling is a targeted ability, so players with hexproof cannot be chosen as targets.

Strategic Timing

This card excels in 'Draw-Go' style decks or strategies that utilize repeated draw engines. Since it triggers on your turn and your opponents' turns, you can slowly dismantle a library just by playing your natural game. It is particularly effective in formats where games go long and every card in the library represents a vital resource.

Interaction examples

Taxing and Milling

Rhystic Study

With both enchantments out, an opponent casts a spell. Rhystic Study triggers. If the opponent does not pay {1}, you draw a card. This draw immediately triggers Jace's Erasure, allowing you to target a player to mill one card.

The Noncreature Barrier

Mystic Remora

If an opponent casts a noncreature spell and chooses not to pay the {4} for Mystic Remora, you may draw a card. Upon drawing, Jace's Erasure triggers, putting a mill effect on the stack. This creates a powerful engine where your opponent's spells result in their own library being depleted.

Solo Efficiency

Even without other cards, Jace's Erasure triggers during your Draw Step. After you draw your card for the turn, the ability triggers, and you can choose to have an opponent mill one card before you even move to your Main Phase.