Phyrexian BoonHow it works & interactions with other cards

What It Does

Phyrexian Boon checks the color of the creature it is enchanting. If the creature is black, the Aura grants a +2/+1 stat bonus. However, if the creature is any other color—or even colorless—it receives a -1/-2 penalty instead. This check is continuous; if the creature's color changes while the Aura is attached, the effect updates immediately.

How It Resolves Step by Step

First, you cast Phyrexian Boon targeting a creature on the battlefield. Upon resolution, it enters the battlefield attached to that creature. The game then checks the creature's current color. If the creature is black, the +2/+1 modifier applies. If the creature is white, blue, red, green, or colorless, the -1/-2 modifier applies. If the -1/-2 penalty causes the creature's toughness to become 0 or less, the creature is put into its owner's graveyard as a state-based action.

Common Mistakes

A frequent error is assuming that a multicolored creature that is black (such as a Black and White creature) gets both effects. In Magic, if a creature is black and another color, it is still black, so it only receives the +2/+1 bonus. Additionally, players often forget that colorless creatures, such as most Artifact Creatures or Eldrazi, will receive the -1/-2 penalty because they are 'otherwise' than black.

When to Play It

Phyrexian Boon is best utilized in a deck that can generate black creatures to buff, or as a tech choice against low-toughness utility creatures. Because it is an Aura, it can be played at any time you could cast a sorcery, allowing you to strengthen your attackers before combat or eliminate a blocking threat.

Interaction examples

Empowering the Mercenaries

Black Market Connections

You use Black Market Connections to create a 3/2 colorless Shapeshifter creature token. Since the token is colorless, if you cast Phyrexian Boon on it, the 'otherwise' clause applies. The token gets -1/-2, becoming a 2/0 creature and immediately dying due to having zero toughness.

Aura and Resource Management

Phyrexian Arena

While Phyrexian Arena ensures you have a steady flow of cards, Phyrexian Boon can be used on any black creature you draw to increase its pressure. If you have a 1/1 black creature, attaching Phyrexian Boon turns it into a 3/2 threat, helping you close out the game while the Arena provides the card advantage needed to sustain the assault.