Proctor's GazeHow it works & interactions with other cards

Dual Effects in One

This spell performs two distinct actions: it handles an opposing nonland permanent and accelerates your mana. Because the bounce effect says "up to one target," you can cast this spell even if there are no nonland permanents on the battlefield just to search for a land. If you do choose a target, you must be careful, as the spell's resolution depends on that target remaining legal.

Resolving the Gaze

When Proctor's Gaze resolves, you first return the chosen target to its owner's hand. Immediately following this, you search your library for a basic land card and put it onto the battlefield tapped. Finally, you shuffle your library. Even if you chose not to target anything, the search and shuffle effects still occur.

Targeting Hazards

A common mistake involves the spell failing to resolve. If you choose a target and that target leaves the battlefield or gains protection before Proctor's Gaze resolves, the entire spell is removed from the stack. In this scenario, you will not get to search your library for a basic land. To guarantee the land search, you can choose to cast the spell with zero targets.

Strategic Timing

As an instant, Proctor's Gaze is best used during an opponent's end step or in response to an attack. By bouncing a blocker or a key engine piece right before your turn, you maximize the tempo swing while ensuring your new land is ready to be untapped for your main phase.

Interaction examples

The Clean Resolution

You cast Proctor's Gaze targeting an opponent's enchantment. The enchantment returns to their hand, you find a Basic Forest from your deck, put it onto the battlefield tapped, and then shuffle.

Interrupted by Destruction

Beast Within

You cast Proctor's Gaze targeting a creature. In response, your opponent casts Beast Within to destroy their own creature. When Proctor's Gaze tries to resolve, its target is gone. The spell is countered by rules, and you do not get to search for a land.

Evading Negation

Fierce Guardianship

You cast Proctor's Gaze targeting an artifact. Your opponent responds with Fierce Guardianship. Because Proctor's Gaze is a noncreature spell, Fierce Guardianship counters it. The spell is moved to the graveyard, and no permanents are bounced nor are any lands fetched.