Unlocking The Secrets Of Bestow Magic: The Gathering

Ms. Juliet Trantow 24 May 2025

Welcome to the world of Bestow Magic: The Gathering! If you're a fan of trading card games or just love strategic gameplay, you're about to dive into one of the most fascinating mechanics ever introduced in Magic: The Gathering. Bestow is more than just a mechanic—it's a game-changer that adds layers of complexity and fun to every match. So grab your deck, and let's explore what makes Bestow so special!

First things first, if you're new to Magic: The Gathering, don't worry. We'll break it down for you. Bestow is not just another card ability; it's a way to rethink how you play your cards. It gives you options, flexibility, and, most importantly, power. Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, understanding Bestow can elevate your gameplay and give you that winning edge.

But why should you care about Bestow? Well, imagine being able to use a single card in two different ways. That's right, two ways! You can play it as a creature or bestow it onto another creature, enhancing its abilities. This mechanic adds a whole new layer of strategy to your games, making every decision more impactful. So, are you ready to dive into the world of Bestow?

What Exactly is Bestow Magic: The Gathering?

Let's get down to the nitty-gritty. Bestow Magic: The Gathering is a mechanic introduced in the Theros block. It allows you to play enchantment creatures in two distinct ways. You can either cast them as creatures or bestow them onto another creature, giving it a temporary power boost. This dual functionality is what makes Bestow so unique and appealing to players.

Here's the kicker: when you bestow a card, it doesn't just sit there like a regular enchantment. No, it actively enhances the creature it's attached to. This means you can turn a weak creature into a powerhouse or protect your star player from destruction. The possibilities are endless, and that's what makes Bestow so exciting.

How Does Bestow Work in Practice?

So, how does Bestow work in an actual game? Let's break it down step by step. First, you cast a Bestow card as you would any other card. If you choose to bestow it, you pay the Bestow cost instead of the regular casting cost. Once it's on the battlefield, it becomes an aura attached to the creature you chose. Simple, right?

But here's the twist: if the creature it's attached to leaves the battlefield, the Bestow card doesn't go to the graveyard. Instead, it becomes a creature again. This means you can keep using it as long as it stays on the battlefield. It's like having two cards in one, and that's what makes Bestow so powerful.

The Origins of Bestow: A Journey Through Theros

Every great mechanic has a story, and Bestow is no exception. It was first introduced in the Theros block, a set inspired by Greek mythology. The designers wanted to capture the essence of gods and heroes, and Bestow was their answer. It represents the idea of gods bestowing their blessings upon mortals, enhancing their abilities and making them stronger.

But why did Wizards of the Coast choose Bestow for Theros? Well, it fits perfectly with the theme of the set. The gods in Theros are fickle and unpredictable, much like the Bestow mechanic itself. It adds an element of surprise to the game, keeping players on their toes and making every match exciting.

The Design Philosophy Behind Bestow

When designing Bestow, the Magic: The Gathering team had a clear vision. They wanted to create a mechanic that was both intuitive and strategic. They succeeded on both counts. Bestow is easy to understand but offers deep layers of strategy. It encourages players to think ahead and plan their moves carefully.

One of the key aspects of Bestow's design is its flexibility. Players can choose how to use their Bestow cards, depending on the situation. This makes it adaptable to different playstyles and strategies, ensuring that every player can find a use for it. Whether you're a control player or an aggro enthusiast, Bestow has something to offer.

Bestow Cards: The Cream of the Crop

Now that we've covered the basics, let's talk about the best Bestow cards. There are plenty to choose from, but some stand out more than others. Cards like Boon Satyr, Fabled Hero, and Agent of the Fates are fan favorites for a reason. They offer powerful abilities that can turn the tide of any game.

But what makes these cards so great? Well, it's their versatility. Boon Satyr, for example, can be played as a creature or bestow card, giving +2/+2 and lifelink to another creature. That's a lot of power for a single card. Fabled Hero, on the other hand, offers vigilance and first strike, making it a solid choice for any deck.

Top 5 Bestow Cards You Need to Know

Boon Satyr: The ultimate power booster, giving +2/+2 and lifelink.
Fabled Hero: Offers vigilance and first strike, perfect for control decks.
Agent of the Fates: Provides deathtouch, making it a nightmare for opposing creatures.
Chosen by Heliod: Grants flying and indestructible, ensuring your creature survives.
Ordeals: A series of enchantments that reward you for attacking, adding value to your turns.

Building a Bestow-Focused Deck

Now that you know the best cards, it's time to build a deck. A Bestow-focused deck can be incredibly powerful, but it requires careful planning. You'll need a mix of Bestow cards, creatures to enchant, and supporting spells to ensure everything runs smoothly.

When building your deck, consider your playstyle. Are you an aggressive player who wants to hit hard and fast, or do you prefer a more controlling approach? Bestow can work with both, but your card choices will vary. For aggro decks, focus on creatures with high power and low mana cost. For control decks, look for creatures with defensive abilities and high toughness.

Tips for Building the Perfect Bestow Deck

Balance your deck with a mix of Bestow cards and creatures.
Choose creatures with abilities that synergize with Bestow.
Incorporate card draw and mana ramp to keep your engine running.
Don't forget removal spells to deal with threats.
Test your deck regularly and make adjustments as needed.

Bestow in Modern and Legacy Formats

While Bestow was originally designed for Standard, it has found a place in other formats as well. In Modern and Legacy, Bestow cards can be incredibly powerful, especially when paired with the right strategies. These formats offer a wider pool of cards, allowing players to create even more powerful combinations.

In Modern, Bestow can be used to enhance tribal strategies, such as Elves or Merfolk. In Legacy, it can be part of powerful combo decks, using cards like Thassa's Oracle to create infinite loops. The possibilities are endless, and that's what makes Bestow so exciting in these formats.

Bestow in Commander: The Ultimate Format

Speaking of endless possibilities, let's talk about Commander. Bestow is a natural fit for this format, where creativity and strategy reign supreme. With a 100-card singleton deck, you have plenty of room to experiment with different combinations.

One popular strategy is to use Bestow cards to enhance your commander. This can make your commander nearly unstoppable, capable of taking down entire armies. Another strategy is to use Bestow to protect your key cards, ensuring they survive long enough to win the game.

Bestow vs. Other Mechanics

Bestow isn't the only powerful mechanic in Magic: The Gathering. So, how does it stack up against others like Transform, Mutate, and Jump-Start? Each mechanic has its own strengths and weaknesses, but Bestow stands out for its versatility and power.

Transform, for example, offers a dual-sided card that changes when certain conditions are met. Mutate allows you to stack creature abilities, creating a powerful monster. Jump-Start gives you the ability to play spells multiple times. But Bestow offers something unique: the ability to use a single card in two different ways. That's what makes it so special.

Why Bestow is Still Relevant Today

Even though Bestow was introduced years ago, it's still relevant today. Why? Because it's a mechanic that can adapt to different formats and strategies. Whether you're playing Standard, Modern, or Commander, Bestow can find a place in your deck. It's a testament to the designers' foresight and creativity.

Moreover, Bestow has inspired other mechanics, such as Transform and Mutate. These mechanics build on the idea of dual functionality, showing how influential Bestow has been in shaping the game. It's a mechanic that continues to evolve and inspire, and that's why it's still worth exploring today.

The Future of Bestow: What Lies Ahead?

So, what does the future hold for Bestow? Will we see it return in future sets? It's hard to say, but the possibility is there. Wizards of the Coast has a history of revisiting popular mechanics, and Bestow is certainly one of them. If it does return, it could be in a new form, offering even more possibilities and strategies.

But even if Bestow doesn't return, its legacy will live on. It has inspired countless players and influenced the design of new mechanics. It's a mechanic that will always have a place in the hearts of Magic: The Gathering fans, and that's what makes it truly special.

Final Thoughts: Why Bestow Matters

In conclusion, Bestow Magic: The Gathering is more than just a mechanic. It's a testament to the creativity and innovation that makes Magic: The Gathering so special. It offers players a unique way to play their cards, adding depth and strategy to every game. Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, Bestow is worth exploring.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your deck, dive into the world of Bestow, and see what it can do for you. And don't forget to share your experiences in the comments below. We'd love to hear how Bestow has impacted your gameplay. Until next time, keep playing, keep winning, and keep exploring the endless possibilities of Magic: The Gathering!

What Exactly is Bestow Magic: The Gathering?
How Does Bestow Work in Practice?
The Origins of Bestow: A Journey Through Theros
The Design Philosophy Behind Bestow
Bestow Cards: The Cream of the Crop
Top 5 Bestow Cards You Need to Know
Building a Bestow-Focused Deck
Tips for Building the Perfect Bestow Deck
Bestow in Modern and Legacy Formats
Bestow in Commander: The Ultimate Format
Bestow vs. Other Mechanics
Why Bestow is Still Relevant Today
The Future of Bestow: What Lies Ahead?
Final Thoughts: Why Bestow Matters

Bestow How To Use, Best Cards MTG

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