Dramatic Reversal — Magic: The Gathering card

Dramatic Reversal

{1}{U}
Instant

Untap all nonland permanents you control.

Set Pioneer Masters
Rarity Uncommon
Artist Eric Deschamps

Why Play Dramatic Reversal

The core appeal lies in generating massive mana advantages by untapping multiple mana-producing artifacts like Sol Ring, Mana Vault, or Signets in a single turn. Combo decks leverage this effect to chain together game-winning sequences, while value-oriented decks use it to double-activate expensive permanents like Planeswalkers or activated abilities. Cast it during your main phase after tapping out for threats, then immediately follow up with additional spells using your refreshed resources.

Format Notes

Commander represents the primary home for Dramatic Reversal, where artifact ramp is prevalent and the multiplayer format rewards explosive turns. The card sees occasional play in Legacy storm decks and has fringe applications in Modern artifact-based strategies. Despite its combo potential, it remains unbanned across all formats due to requiring specific setup pieces and vulnerable disruption windows.

Combos & Synergies

Isochron Scepter creates the most notorious interaction, allowing infinite mana when combined with two mana worth of artifacts or creatures. Paradox Engine builds used this effect as a secondary engine before the artifact's ban in Commander. Thran Dynamo and Gilded Lotus provide immediate mana-positive exchanges, while Thousand-Year Elixir doubles down on the untap theme by granting additional activations of creature abilities.

Learn More

Instant Modern Pioneer Commander