Windstorm DrakeHow it works & interactions with other cards

Static Buffs and Flying

Windstorm Drake features a static ability that grants other creatures you control with flying a +1/+0 bonus. Because this is a static ability, it does not use the stack and cannot be responded to once the Drake is on the battlefield. As long as the Drake is alive and another creature you control has the flying keyword, that creature immediately benefits from the increased power.

Resolution Step by Step

First, Windstorm Drake must successfully resolve and enter the battlefield. Once it is in play, the game constantly checks two conditions: do you control the creature, and does it have flying? If both are true, the +1/+0 is applied. If Windstorm Drake leaves the battlefield, the bonus vanishes instantly. Similarly, if a creature loses flying, it immediately loses the power bonus provided by the Drake.

Common Pitfalls

A common mistake is forgetting that Windstorm Drake does not buff itself; the ability specifically states 'other creatures'. Additionally, players often confuse static abilities with triggered abilities. Windstorm Drake does not 'trigger' when a flyer enters; the bonus is simply there. This means cards that interact with triggered abilities will have no effect on this Drake's power-boosting aura.

Tactical Timing

Windstorm Drake is best deployed when you already have a board presence of small, evasive creatures. It is a finisher that allows you to bypass ground blockers and deal significantly more damage in a single combat phase. Since it has flying itself, it also serves as a respectable blocker against the opponent's aerial attackers.

Interaction examples

The Golem and the Drake

Solemn Simulacrum

If you control both Windstorm Drake and Solemn Simulacrum, the Simulacrum will not receive a power bonus because it does not have flying. Even though Windstorm Drake is a powerful support piece, it only aids those who share the skies. The Solemn Simulacrum will remain a 2/2 creature.

Type Selection with Roaming Throne

Roaming Throne

If you play Roaming Throne and choose 'Drake', it becomes a Drake in addition to its other types. However, Windstorm Drake's ability is a static ability, not a triggered ability. Therefore, Roaming Throne's ability to double triggers will not interact with Windstorm Drake. Furthermore, since Roaming Throne does not have flying, it will not receive the +1/+0 bonus from the Drake.

Flying Support

With Windstorm Drake on the battlefield, every other creature you control that naturally has flying, or gains it through spells or equipment, becomes more dangerous. A simple 1/1 bird token becomes a 2/1 threat, effectively doubling its clock against the opponent.