Vine MareHow it works & interactions with other cards

Protection and Evasion

Vine Mare possesses two distinct abilities: Hexproof and an evasion ability. Hexproof ensures that your opponents cannot target the creature with spells or abilities, shielding it from most removal. Additionally, it cannot be blocked by black creatures, allowing it to bypass defenses in matchups against black-aligned decks.

How It Resolves Step by Step

When you cast Vine Mare, it follows the standard procedure for a creature spell. First, pay the mana cost of two generic and two green mana to put it on the stack. If it resolves, it enters the battlefield. Once on the battlefield, its static abilities are immediately active; it cannot be targeted by opponents, and if it attacks, any creatures with the black color identity are legally unable to be declared as blockers against it.

Common Mistakes

A common misconception is that Hexproof protects Vine Mare from all spells. However, it only prevents targeting; 'board wipes' or non-targeted effects still affect it. Furthermore, remember that the evasion only applies to black creatures. Artifact creatures or creatures of other colors can block Vine Mare as normal unless they are also black.

When to Play Vine Mare

Vine Mare is most effective when your opponent relies on targeted removal or utilizes black creatures for defense. Because it is difficult to interact with, it serves as an excellent candidate for power-boosting effects that turn it into an unstoppable clock for the opponent.

Interaction examples

Resource Recovery

Eternal Witness

If Vine Mare is destroyed by a non-targeted effect like a board wipe, you can play Eternal Witness. When Eternal Witness enters, its ability triggers, allowing you to target Vine Mare in your graveyard and return it to your hand to be cast again.

Developing the Board

Solemn Simulacrum

To ensure you have the four mana required for Vine Mare, you can play Solemn Simulacrum first. Its triggered ability searches for a basic Forest, putting it onto the battlefield tapped. This acceleration helps you deploy Vine Mare earlier in the game, and Solemn Simulacrum provides a non-black blocker if your opponent attacks back.