Whether it's increasing one's own defense, accelerating energy, spreading damage across the opponent's Pokemon, or applying negative statuses like poison or asleep, abilities are an essential part of the game
There's a pleasant symphony between the first ability, which can draw you an extra card each turn, and the activated ability, which requires that you've cast at least three spells that turn
Invasion of Zendikar // Awakened Skyclave has been a key piece in the very powerful Domain Ramp decks that have been excellent in Standard since the printing of the card, putting Reid Duke in the top 8 of Worlds and may other players to big finishes, largely in part due to the amazing set up curve of turn three Topiary Stomper into turn four Battle for Zendikar and attack it immediately
The decks Commander is Clavileo, First of the Blessed, and he brings a unique sacrifice strategy to MTGs vampires
Cloudshift Conjurer's Closet Kaya's Ghostform Nephalia Smuggler Restoration Angel Thassa, Deep-Dwelling