The Multifaceted PhyrexianHow it works & interactions with other cards

Humble Your Opponents

The core of this card lies in its activated ability. By paying 1 life and sacrificing another creature, you can target any creature an opponent controls and transform it into a 3/3 green Elk. Unlike many similar effects, this change is indefinite, meaning the creature remains an Elk for as long as it stays on the battlefield.

Fixed Commander Ninjutsu Explained

This card introduces 'Fixed commander ninjutsu.' Like traditional Ninjutsu, you can activate this ability if an unblocked creature you control is attacking. You pay the mana cost, discard a card, and return that unblocked creature to your hand to put The Multifaceted Phyrexian onto the battlefield from the Command Zone. However, unlike Yuriko, you must pay the additional 'commander tax' of {2} for each time it has been cast or put into play from the Command Zone previously this game.

Protection from Elk

Once you have transformed your opponent's creatures into Elks, The Multifaceted Phyrexian becomes untouchable to them. Protection from Elk means it cannot be blocked by Elks, targeted by Elk abilities, dealt damage by Elks, or enchanted/equipped by anything with the Elk subtype. This allows it to swing through a board of Elks with impunity.

Strategic Timing

The best time to use the transformation ability is during your opponent's end step or in response to them targeting their own creature with a buff. Since the sacrifice is part of the cost, ensure you have expendable creatures ready to fuel the Phyrexian's dark transformation.

Interaction examples

Generating Value through Sacrifice

Solemn Simulacrum

If you have Solemn Simulacrum on the battlefield, you can activate The Multifaceted Phyrexian's ability by sacrificing the Simulacrum. Step one: Pay 1 life and sacrifice Solemn Simulacrum as a cost. Step two: Solemn Simulacrum's 'dies' ability triggers, allowing you to draw a card. Step three: The Multifaceted Phyrexian's ability resolves, turning an opponent's creature into a 3/3 Elk. You have neutralized a threat and replaced your sacrificed creature with a new card.

Doubling Down on Types

Roaming Throne

While Roaming Throne is on the battlefield with 'Phyrexian' or 'Ninja' chosen, it will not double the transformation ability of The Multifaceted Phyrexian because that is an activated ability, not a triggered one. However, the Throne itself can be a prime target for protection. If an opponent tries to use a creature they own to block your Throne, you can turn their blocker into an Elk. While the Throne doesn't have protection, your Multifaceted Phyrexian can now safely attack past that Elk in future turns.