Uninvited Geist // Unimpeded TrespasserHow it works & interactions with other cards

Understanding Skulk and Transformation

Uninvited Geist starts with the skulk keyword, which means it cannot be blocked by any creature with a power greater than its own. Since its base power is 2, only creatures with 0, 1, or 2 power can legally block it. When it successfully deals combat damage to a player, a triggered ability is put onto the stack that causes it to transform into Unimpeded Trespasser. Once transformed, it loses skulk but gains a more powerful ability: it simply can't be blocked by any creatures at all.

How it Resolves Step by Step

First, you declare Uninvited Geist as an attacker. Your opponent can only declare blockers that have power 2 or less. If it goes unblocked, it deals damage to the player during the combat damage step. This triggers the transformation ability. The ability goes on the stack, and when it resolves, you flip the card over to its back face, Unimpeded Trespasser. Note that because this happens after damage is dealt, the transformation won't affect the combat that just occurred, but it sets you up for an unblockable attack on your next turn.

Common Mistakes

A common mistake involves power modifiers. Skulk only checks power at the moment blockers are declared. If you increase the power of Uninvited Geist after it has been legally blocked, it remains blocked. Similarly, if your opponent reduces their blocker's power after blockers are declared, it doesn't undo the block. Also, remember that if the Geist has 0 or less power (perhaps due to a debuff), it will likely be unblockable, but because it deals 0 damage, its transformation ability will not trigger.

When to Play It

Uninvited Geist is best used when you can ensure it connects with the opponent's life total early. It is a fantastic target for equipment or spells that don't increase power until after blockers are declared, or for effects that double triggered abilities. Because it is a Spirit on both sides, it benefits from tribal synergies throughout the entire match.

Interaction examples

Bypassing the Golem

Solemn Simulacrum

You attack with Uninvited Geist (power 2). Your opponent controls Solemn Simulacrum (power 2). Because the Golem's power is not greater than the Geist's power, the opponent can legally block. If the opponent had a creature with 3 power instead, they would be unable to block the Geist due to skulk.

Doubling the Haunting

Roaming Throne

With Roaming Throne on the battlefield naming 'Spirit', Uninvited Geist's triggered ability will trigger twice when it deals combat damage to a player. The first instance of the ability will transform Uninvited Geist into Unimpeded Trespasser. The second instance will then attempt to transform it again, turning it back into Uninvited Geist. You must be careful with doubling effects if you want to keep the unblockable side!

Representing the Card

Shadows Over Innistrad Checklist 1

If you are playing in a tournament and do not have opaque sleeves, you must use Shadows Over Innistrad Checklist 1 to represent your Uninvited Geist in your library and hand. You mark the 'Uninvited Geist' box on the checklist card and keep the actual double-faced card in a clear sleeve or nearby to swap in whenever the card is on the battlefield.