The flexibility of Spree makes this an excellent toolbox card that scales with available mana throughout the game. Early game, casting it for just {B} does nothing, but mid-to-late game you can tutor for answers with the {2} mode or refill your hand with the {B}{B} mode. Paying all costs for {3}{B}{B} gives you both card selection and card advantage in a single spell, making it powerful in grindy matchups where resources matter most.
Format Notes
Commander sees the most play due to the format's emphasis on card advantage and tutoring effects, where the life loss is less relevant in multiplayer games. Standard and Pioneer decks occasionally include it in control shells that can afford the mana investment, though competition from other card draw spells keeps it from being a staple. The card hasn't faced any ban considerations across formats due to its reasonable mana requirements and balanced effects.
Combos & Synergies
Pairs excellently with Vito, Thorn of the Dusk Rose and similar lifegain payoffs that can offset the life loss while benefiting from the card draw. Works well alongside Orcish Bowmasters since you can force opponents to draw cards and immediately punish them for it. The tutor effect synergizes with expensive threats like Sheoldred, the Apocalypse that you want to find consistently but can't afford to run in multiples.
