Smashing SpreeHow it works & interactions with other cards

Crushing the Defense

Smashing Spree provides a +3/+3 stat bonus and trample to a single target attacking creature. Because it specifically targets an 'attacking creature', you can only cast this spell during the combat phase after attackers have been declared but before the combat phase ends. Trample allows the creature to deal any excess damage to the player or planeswalker it is attacking after assigning lethal damage to all blockers.

Step-by-Step Resolution

First, you cast Smashing Spree during the combat phase by paying one red and one generic mana, selecting one attacking creature as the target. Upon resolution, the creature immediately gains the stat bonus and trample. When the game moves to the combat damage step, you calculate lethal damage for blockers; any remaining power from your buffed attacker is then dealt directly to the defending player.

Common Pitfalls

A common mistake is attempting to cast Smashing Spree before the Declare Attackers step; a creature is not considered 'attacking' until it has been officially declared as an attacker. Additionally, if the target creature is removed from combat or leaves the battlefield before Smashing Spree resolves, the spell will fizzle and have no effect.

Strategic Timing

The best time to cast Smashing Spree is usually after your opponent has declared blockers. By waiting, you can force through lethal damage that your opponent thought was safely blocked. It also serves as a great response to damage-based removal, as the +3 toughness might just keep your creature alive.

Interaction examples

Changing the Target

Deflecting Swat

If you cast Smashing Spree on your creature, your opponent can respond with Deflecting Swat. Since Smashing Spree targets, they can change the target to one of their own attacking creatures if they are also in a combat phase, or simply to a different attacking creature you control that benefits less from the buff.

Warping the Board

Chaos Warp

If you cast Smashing Spree on your attacking creature, an opponent might cast Chaos Warp in response. Chaos Warp resolves first, shuffling your creature into your library. When Smashing Spree tries to resolve, its target is gone, and the spell is removed from the stack with no effect.

Solo Smash

You declare a 2/2 creature as an attacker. Your opponent blocks with a 1/1 token. You cast Smashing Spree. Your creature becomes a 5/5 with trample. During damage, it deals 1 damage to the 1/1 token and 4 damage directly to your opponent.