Tocasia's WelcomeHow it works & interactions with other cards

Understanding the Trigger

The ability triggers whenever one or more creatures with mana value 3 or less enter the battlefield under your control. The mana value is determined by the mana symbols in the upper right corner of the card. If a creature enters the battlefield as a copy of something else, use the mana value of whatever it currently is on the battlefield to determine if the ability triggers.

The 'Once Each Turn' Clause

This enchantment has a strict limit: it triggers only once each turn. This means once the ability has been put on the stack, it cannot trigger again until the next turn begins. Note that this includes your opponents' turns; if you can make a small creature enter the battlefield during another player's turn, you can draw an additional card then.

Simultaneous Entry

If multiple creatures with mana value 3 or less enter the battlefield at the exact same time, Tocasia's Welcome triggers only once. You will draw one card, and the ability will not trigger again for the rest of that turn. You cannot 'save' triggers for later in the turn if they occur simultaneously.

When to Play It

To get the most out of Tocasia's Welcome, you should play it early in a deck featuring many low-cost creatures or token generators. Since it triggers on your opponents' turns, cards that provide flash or instant-speed token creation are excellent ways to bypass the 'once each turn' restriction.

Interaction examples

Drawing Your First Card

You have Tocasia's Welcome on the battlefield. You cast a creature with mana value 2. When it enters the battlefield, the enchantment's ability triggers. You draw one card. If you cast another small creature later that same turn, the ability will not trigger again.

Interacting with Smothering Tithe

Smothering Tithe

You control Tocasia's Welcome and your opponent controls Smothering Tithe. A small creature enters under your control, triggering the Welcome. As you draw your card, Smothering Tithe triggers for your opponent. They will get a Treasure token unless you pay {2}.

Building Your Defense

Ghostly Prison

You control both enchantments. As you play small creatures to trigger Tocasia's Welcome and refill your hand, Ghostly Prison protects you from retaliation. This combination allows you to maintain resources while making it expensive for your opponent to attack you.