Incubate
| Incubate | |
|---|---|
| Keyword Action | |
| Introduced | March of the Machine |
| Last used | March of the Machine |
| Reminder Text |
Incubate N (Create an Incubator token with N +1/+1 counters on it and “ : Transform this artifact. It transforms into a 0/0 Phyrexian artifact creature.) |
| Statistics |
12 cards  25%  16.7%  25%  8.3%  16.7%  8.3% |
| Scryfall Search | |
| keyword:"Incubate" | |
Incubate is a keyword action introduced in March of the Machine related to the Incubator type.[1][2] The instruction to incubate includes a number which indicates how many +1/+1 counters to put on the Incubator token.
Description
Incubate creates an artifact token with N +1/+1 counters on it, which can be transformed into a 0/0 Phyrexian creature for . It is a creature equivalent to Investigate, with the payoff being a variably sized creature instead of the card the Clue provides. The token it creates is unique amongst tokens in that it is inherently double-faced and transforms; while there are other forms of "disabling" the creature before the payment that keep it a single-faced creature, it is likely that there are tracking issues and too many exploits regarding "inactive" creatures.
Rules
From the glossary of the Comprehensive Rules (June 7, 2024—Modern Horizons 3)
- Incubate
- A keyword action that creates an Incubator token with a specified number of +1/+1 counters on it. See rule 701.51, “Incubate.”
From the Comprehensive Rules (June 7, 2024—Modern Horizons 3)
- 701.51. Incubate
- 701.51a To incubate N, create an Incubator token that enters the battlefield with N +1/+1 counters on it. See rule 111.10i.
- 701.51b An Incubator token is a transforming double-faced token. Its front face is a colorless Incubator artifact with “{2}: Transform this artifact.” Its back face is a 0/0 colorless Phyrexian artifact creature named “Phyrexian Token.”
Rulings
Examples
Example
Traumatic Revelation 
Sorcery
Target opponent reveals their hand. You may choose a creature or battle card from it. If you do, that player discards that card. If you don't, incubate 3. (Create an Incubator token with three +1/+1 counters on it and “: Transform this artifact. It transforms into a 0/0 Phyrexian artifact creature.)
References
- ↑ Matt Tabak (Mar 29, 2023). "March of the Machine Mechanics". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
- ↑ Mark Rosewater (March 29, 2023). "March of the Machine Learning, Part 1". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.