Mineshaft SpiderHow it works & interactions with other cards

What it Does

Mineshaft Spider is a 3/4 creature with Reach, meaning it can block creatures with Flying. Upon entering the battlefield, it offers an optional 'mill two' ability, allowing you to move the top two cards of your library into your graveyard to fuel various synergies.

How it Resolves Step by Step

When Mineshaft Spider enters the battlefield, its triggered ability goes on the stack. When that ability resolves, you make a choice: you may choose to mill two cards or do nothing. If you choose to mill, you must have at least two cards remaining in your library; if you have fewer than two, you cannot choose to mill.

Common Mistakes

A common mistake is forgetting that the mill ability is optional ('you may'). You are not forced to mill if your library is dangerously low or if you want to keep specific cards on top. Additionally, remember that Reach only applies when blocking; Mineshaft Spider does not have Flying itself and cannot be blocked by creatures that can only block flyers.

When to Play It

Play Mineshaft Spider when you need to stabilize the board against aggressive aerial decks. Its four toughness makes it a sturdy wall, and the mill trigger is perfect for decks looking to recur cards from the graveyard or trigger 'leaves the graveyard' effects.

Interaction examples

Graveyard Recursion

Eternal Witness

You cast Mineshaft Spider and choose to mill two cards. One of the cards milled is a powerful spell. You then cast Eternal Witness, using its enters-the-battlefield trigger to return that specific card from your graveyard to your hand.

Optimizing Your Library

Solemn Simulacrum

After Mineshaft Spider mills two cards you don't need, you play Solemn Simulacrum. The Simulacrum's search ability allows you to shuffle your library, ensuring you reset the order of your deck after the mill and thinning out your lands for better future draws.