Machine Man, Model X-51How it works & interactions with other cards

A Multi-Functional Machine

Machine Man, Model X-51 features a triggered ability that triggers whenever you cast a noncreature spell. A noncreature spell is any spell that does not have the 'Creature' type in its type line, including Artifacts (that aren't creatures), Enchantments, Instants, Sorceries, and Planeswalkers. Every time this trigger resolves, Machine Man receives a permanent +1/+1 counter and gains flying until the end of the current turn.

The Step-by-Step Resolution

When you cast a noncreature spell, Machine Man's ability triggers and is put onto the stack on top of that spell. This means the ability will resolve before the spell that triggered it actually takes effect. First, you place a +1/+1 counter on Machine Man, and then he gains flying. After the ability has finished resolving, the original noncreature spell will then resolve. If Machine Man is removed from the battlefield in response to the trigger, the +1/+1 counter will not be placed, though the ability still technically resolves.

Common Strategic Pitfalls

It is important to remember that 'casting' a spell is different from 'putting a permanent onto the battlefield.' Abilities that put an artifact or enchantment directly into play without casting it will not trigger Machine Man. Additionally, if you cast a creature spell that also has other types (like an Artifact Creature), it still counts as a creature spell and will NOT trigger his ability. Only spells entirely lacking the creature type qualify.

When to Activate the Hero

Because Machine Man gains flying until end of turn, the best time to cast your noncreature spells is during your pre-combat main phase. This ensures he has the evasion needed to fly over your opponent's blockers. However, casting an Instant-speed noncreature spell during an opponent's turn can also be useful to grow his toughness as a surprise blocker, even if the flying keyword is less relevant defensively.

Interaction examples

Mechanical Synergy

Roaming Throne

If you have Roaming Throne on the battlefield and chose 'Robot' as its type, Machine Man's ability will trigger twice whenever you cast a noncreature spell. This results in two +1/+1 counters and two instances of flying (though flying is redundant). This effectively doubles his growth rate.

Distinguishing Spell Types

Solemn Simulacrum

If you cast Solemn Simulacrum while Machine Man is on the battlefield, nothing happens to Machine Man. Because Solemn Simulacrum has the 'Creature' type, it is considered a creature spell, which fails to meet the 'noncreature spell' requirement for Machine Man's trigger.