Cursed Mirror

Strategy & Gameplay

Cursed Mirror from Modern Horizons 3 is a versatile red artifact that combines mana acceleration with creature copying capabilities, making it a flexible addition to numerous strategy decks. At just two mana with one red, this card offers immediate utility as a simple red mana source when tapped, but its true power emerges from its triggered ability upon entering the battlefield. The option to copy any creature currently in play until end of turn while granting haste creates explosive tempo plays and unexpected value, particularly in formats where creature-heavy strategies dominate. This card shines brightest in aggressive red decks, creature-focused strategies, and decks that benefit from repeated creature effects or sacrifice outlets. In Modern and Legacy, red tempo decks and prowess-based strategies can leverage Cursed Mirror for both mana fixing and surprise threats that can swing combat favorably. The haste clause is particularly relevant, allowing you to immediately attack with copied creatures rather than waiting a turn, which is crucial in formats where every point of damage matters. In Commander, this artifact becomes even more powerful in decks with high-impact creatures, particularly in red-heavy decks running cards with strong enter-the-battlefield effects or those that benefit from creature tokens. The card also works wonderfully in sacrifice-themed strategies where the temporary token can be immediately sacrificed for value. Its legality across Historic, Timeless, Modern, Legacy, and Vintage makes it accessible to players across multiple formats, while its affordable mana cost means it won't strain your mana base. Whether you're looking for mana ramp, tempo advantage, or versatile creature cloning, Cursed Mirror delivers on multiple fronts.