Tattered ApparitionHow it works & interactions with other cards

A Growing Menace

Tattered Apparition features an activated ability that costs one generic and one black mana to give it +1/+1 until the end of the turn. Because this is an activated ability without a 'once per turn' restriction, you can activate it as many times as you have the mana to pay for it. The Flying keyword ensures that most ground-based blockers won't be able to stand in its way while it grows.

Step-by-Step Resolution

To use Tattered Apparition effectively, first ensure you have priority. You announce the ability and pay the mana cost of {1}{B}. The ability is then put onto the stack and can be responded to by opponents. If it resolves, the creature gains +1/+1. You can repeat this process multiple times; each instance of the ability stays on the stack independently and grants a cumulative bonus.

Timing and Strategy

The best time to activate this ability is usually after your opponent has declared blockers. If they choose not to block because it is currently a 2/2, you can pump all your available mana into it to maximize damage. Conversely, if they block with a larger creature, you only need to activate the ability enough times to ensure Tattered Apparition survives the combat or trades effectively.

Common Pitfalls

One common mistake is forgetting that the +1/+1 bonus expires at the end of the turn. Do not spend all your mana during your main phase if you might need it for defensive spells or further activations during your opponent's turn. Additionally, remember that the ability does not grant toughness permanently, so it will return to its base 2/2 state during the cleanup step.

Interaction examples

Ramping for Power

Solemn Simulacrum

You play Solemn Simulacrum to search for a Swamp and put it onto the battlefield. This extra land provides the mana needed for one additional activation of Tattered Apparition's ability each turn, increasing its potential damage output significantly.

A Throne for Shades

Roaming Throne

If you name 'Shade' as Roaming Throne enters, it's important to note that Tattered Apparition's +1/+1 ability is an activated ability, not a triggered ability. Therefore, Roaming Throne will not cause Tattered Apparition's pump ability to trigger a second time. However, Roaming Throne can serve as a powerful blocker while you focus your mana on Tattered Apparition's attacks.

Flying Over the Defense

If your opponent controls several ground creatures but no flyers, you can attack with Tattered Apparition safely. Once it is unblocked, you can tap four Swamps to activate its ability twice, turning the 2/2 flyer into a 4/4 attacker for that turn.