Sunburst

For the theme deck see: Sunburst (deck)

Sunburst is a keyword ability appearing on both artifacts and artifact creatures that puts charge and +1/+1 counters, respectively, on the card when it comes into play. The number of counters is equal to the number of different colors of mana used to play the spell.

In addition, Sunburst can also be used as a sort of 'X-value'. One card, Arcbound Wanderer has the ability "Modular-Sunburst". "Modular-Sunburst" means that the creature comes into play with a +1/+1 counter on it for each color of mana payed to play it, and when that creature is put into a graveyard from play, the controller may move the +1/+1 counters onto another artifact creature.

All tournament-legal cards with sunburst first appeared in Fifth Dawn.

From the Comprehensive Rules: 702.42. Sunburst 702.42a Sunburst is a static ability that functions as an object is entering the battlefield from the stack. “Sunburst” means “If this object is entering the battlefield from the stack as a creature, it enters the battlefield with a +1/+1 counter on it for each color of mana spent to cast it. If this object is entering the battlefield from the stack and isn’t entering the battlefield as a creature, it enters the battlefield with a charge counter on it for each color of mana spent to cast it.” 702.42b Sunburst applies only as the spell is resolving and only if one or more colored mana was spent on its costs. Mana paid for additional or alternative costs applies. 702.42c Sunburst can also be used to set a variable number for another ability. If the keyword is used in this way, it doesn’t matter whether the ability is on a creature spell or on a noncreature spell. Example: The ability “Modular—Sunburst” means “This permanent enters the battlefield with a +1/+1 counter on it for each color of mana spent to cast it” and “When this permanent is put into a graveyard from the battlefield, you may put a +1/+1 counter on target artifact creature for each +1/+1 counter on this permanent.” 702.42d If an object has multiple instances of sunburst, each one works separately.

[edit] Examples

Clearwater Goblet - Artifact Sunburst (This enters the battlefield with a charge counter on it for each color of mana spent to cast it.) At the beginning of your upkeep, you may gain life equal to the number of charge counters on Clearwater Goblet. Suntouched Myr - Artifact Creature — Myr 0/0 Sunburst (This enters the battlefield with a +1/+1 counter on it for each color of mana spent to cast it.)

[edit] Color percentages