Wail of the NimHow it works & interactions with other cards

Dual Modes and Entwine

Wail of the Nim features two distinct modes. The first mode creates a regeneration shield for every creature you control, while the second deals 1 damage to each creature and each player. By paying the Entwine cost of {B} in addition to the casting cost, you can choose both modes, allowing your creatures to survive the very damage the spell deals.

How It Resolves Step by Step

When you cast the spell, you choose your modes. If Entwined, the modes resolve in the order they are printed. First, each creature you control gains a regeneration shield. Next, the spell deals 1 damage to all creatures and players. Any of your creatures that would be destroyed by this damage (or other damage marked on them) will instead have that damage removed and become tapped as the regeneration shield is consumed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

A common misconception is that regeneration can save a creature from being exiled or sacrificed. Regeneration only replaces destruction from lethal damage or effects that specifically say 'destroy.' Additionally, if a creature's toughness is reduced to 0 or less, regeneration will not prevent it from being put into the graveyard.

Strategic Timing

This card is most effective during the combat phase or in response to damage-based board wipes. Because it is an instant, you can wait until your opponent has committed to their attacks before regenerating your blockers or dealing that final point of damage to a weakened enemy threat.

Interaction examples

Survival Against Mass Damage

If you control several 1/1 creatures and cast Wail of the Nim with Entwine, your creatures first gain regeneration shields. When the second mode deals 1 damage to them, the shields are used, and your creatures remain on the battlefield instead of dying.

The Limits of Regeneration

Deadly Rollick

If an opponent casts Deadly Rollick targeting your creature, casting Wail of the Nim to regenerate it will not help. Deadly Rollick exiles the creature, and regeneration only replaces destruction effects, not exile effects.

Regeneration vs Sacrifice

Deadly Dispute

If you cast Deadly Dispute and sacrifice a creature as a cost, that creature is moved directly to the graveyard. Even if you had previously resolved Wail of the Nim's regeneration mode on that creature, it cannot be saved because sacrifice is not a destruction effect.