Smash to DustHow it works & interactions with other cards

Choosing Your Mode

When you cast Smash to Dust, you must choose one of its three modes. Because the first two modes require a target, you must be able to choose a legal target for them to cast the spell using those options. The third mode does not target, affecting all creatures your opponents control simultaneously.

Resolution Step-by-Step

First, the spell is put onto the stack and the mode is chosen. If a targeted mode was picked, you declare the target artifact or creature with defender. If the target is illegal when the spell tries to resolve, the spell is removed from the stack with no effect. If the third mode was chosen, the spell simply deals 1 damage to each opposing creature upon resolution.

Common Mistakes

A common error is trying to destroy a creature that does not have the 'defender' keyword using the second mode; if the creature loses defender before resolution, the spell will fail. Additionally, remember that as a sorcery, you cannot use Smash to Dust to respond to an opponent's play during their turn.

When to Play It

This card is best utilized in sideboards or limited environments where diversity is key. It excels at clearing out 1-toughness creatures like Goblins or Soldiers, but can pivot to remove a crucial mana rock or a high-toughness blocker that is stalling your attack.

Interaction examples

Cleaning Up the Board

If your opponent controls three 1/1 tokens, you cast Smash to Dust choosing the third mode. Upon resolution, 1 damage is dealt to each, and all three are destroyed as a state-based action.

Targeting Priorities

Vandalblast

While Vandalblast is superior for destroying many artifacts via Overload, Smash to Dust offers a lower-cost single-target destruction for a specific artifact while maintaining the ability to kill small creatures instead.

Filtering for Answers

Faithless Looting

If you are facing a creature with defender but don't have an answer, you can cast Faithless Looting to draw two cards. If you draw Smash to Dust, you can then cast it during your main phase to destroy that defender.