Scythe TigerHow it works & interactions with other cards

Unpacking Shroud and the Entry Cost

Scythe Tiger features two distinct mechanics: Shroud and a triggered 'enters-the-battlefield' ability. Shroud is a static ability that prevents any player—including you—from targeting the Tiger with spells or abilities. The second ability is a triggered sacrifice effect. Unlike 'as an additional cost to cast,' this happens after the creature is already on the battlefield. If you cannot or choose not to sacrifice a land when the trigger resolves, Scythe Tiger must be sacrificed.

Step-by-Step Resolution

First, you cast Scythe Tiger and it moves to the stack. Once it resolves and enters the battlefield, its triggered ability is put onto the stack. At this point, players can respond with instant-speed effects, but they cannot target Scythe Tiger because Shroud is active immediately. When the trigger finally resolves, you choose whether to sacrifice a land. If you do, the Tiger remains; if you don't, the Tiger is put into its owner's graveyard.

Strategic Timing and Common Mistakes

A common mistake is thinking you can cast a pump spell on Scythe Tiger in response to its sacrifice trigger. Because of Shroud, you cannot target it with your own spells. Additionally, remember that the land sacrifice happens on resolution. If an opponent destroys your only land in response to the trigger, you will be forced to sacrifice Scythe Tiger because you no longer have a land to offer when the ability resolves.

Interaction examples

Developing an Early Mana Base

Llanowar Elves

If you play Llanowar Elves on turn one, you can use its mana ability on turn two to cast Scythe Tiger while still having a land available to sacrifice. This allows you to maintain your board presence with two creatures even though you have decreased your total land count.

Accelerating into Power

Birds of Paradise

With Birds of Paradise on the field, you can produce the green mana required for Scythe Tiger without tapping your only land. When Scythe Tiger enters, you sacrifice your untapped land. This leaves you with a 3/2 Shroud creature and a mana-producing Bird, keeping your tempo high despite the land loss.