How does Obelisk of Power work?

The Obelisk of Power is a Battlefield card that provides a one-time resource boost at the start of the game. Here is how it works:

Core Mechanic

According to its card text, the ability states: "At the start of each player's first Beginning Phase, that player channels 1 rune."

• One-Time Effect: This ability triggers only once per player during the entire game—specifically during their very first Beginning Phase. It does not trigger every turn.
• Trigger Timing: The ability triggers during the Beginning Phase. As noted in RiftJudge FAQ #8260, the sequence is:
  1. During your Beginning Phase, declare the Obelisk of Power trigger.
  2. Channel the rune(s) from the Obelisk.
  3. Channel your normal runes for the turn.
  4. Proceed to your draw.

Important Nuances

• Stacking: If multiple Obelisk of Power battlefields are in play (for example, if both players choose it), their effects stack. You will draw an additional rune for each Obelisk present (RiftJudge FAQ #7784).
• Uncontrolled Battlefield: The ability triggers even if the battlefield is not controlled by a player. The turn player is responsible for adding these uncontrolled battlefield abilities to the chain (RiftJudge FAQ #8260).
• Missed Triggers: If you forget to trigger the Obelisk during your first Beginning Phase, tournament rules dictate that your opponent decides whether you may receive the effect retroactively (RiftJudge FAQ #8260).

In summary, the Obelisk of Power is designed to accelerate your resource pool only at the very start of the game, not as a recurring source of runes.