Tyvar, the PummelerHow it works & interactions with other cards

A Shield of Flesh

Tyvar's first ability is a defensive powerhouse. By tapping another untapped creature you control, you give Tyvar indestructible until the end of the turn. This ability is unique because it also taps Tyvar himself as part of the resolution. If Tyvar is already tapped, you can still activate the ability; he simply stays tapped and gains indestructible.

Resolving the Overrun

When you pay five mana for Tyvar's second ability, the game checks the greatest power among all creatures you control at the exact moment the ability resolves. That number becomes 'X'. Every creature you control then receives +X/+X until the end of the turn. Note that if the power of your creatures changes after the ability has finished resolving, the bonus granted by Tyvar does not change.

Timing and Strategy

Because X is calculated upon resolution, you want to ensure your largest creature is on the battlefield and potentially buffed by other spells before the ability resolves. A common mistake is thinking X updates if a larger creature enters later; it does not. Additionally, remember that Tyvar's protection ability requires tapping another creature, so you cannot use it if he is your only creature.

Interaction examples

Securing Indestructible

Solemn Simulacrum

If your opponent casts a destruction spell targeting Tyvar, you can activate Tyvar's ability by tapping your untapped Solemn Simulacrum. When the ability resolves, Tyvar becomes tapped and gains indestructible, allowing him to survive the spell.

Boosting the Board

Solemn SimulacrumSakura-Tribe Elder

With Tyvar (3 power), Solemn Simulacrum (2 power), and Sakura-Tribe Elder (1 power) on board, you activate Tyvar's second ability. Upon resolution, the greatest power is 3 (Tyvar). All three creatures receive +3/+3, making Tyvar a 6/6, the Golem a 5/5, and the Elder a 4/4.

Sacrifice Timing

Sakura-Tribe Elder

If you activate Tyvar's second ability and then sacrifice Sakura-Tribe Elder in response to search for a land, the Elder will not be on the battlefield to receive the +X/+X bonus when the ability finally resolves.