Amazing AcrobaticsHow it works & interactions with other cards

Choosing Your Modes

When you cast Amazing Acrobatics, you must choose one or both of its modes. If you choose both, you must select one target spell and one or two target creatures. You cannot choose the same target multiple times for the second mode; it must be one or two distinct creatures. Because it is an instant, you can use this during an opponent's turn to counter a spell and tap down their potential attackers before they can be declared in the combat phase.

Resolution Step-by-Step

First, the spell is put onto the stack and targets are chosen for the selected modes. If both modes are chosen, you follow the instructions in the order they are printed. First, the targeted spell is countered and moved to its owner's graveyard. Second, the one or two targeted creatures are tapped. If one of the targets becomes illegal before resolution (for example, if a creature is sacrificed), the remaining legal targets will still be affected by the spell's relevant mode.

Common Pitfalls

A common mistake is trying to target a spell that 'cannot be countered' to trigger the second mode; while the spell is a legal target, the first part of the effect will simply fail, though the tapping will still occur. Additionally, remember that tapping a creature that is already attacking does not remove it from combat. To stop an attack, you must cast this and tap the creatures during the Beginning of Combat step, before the Declare Attackers step begins.

Strategic Timing

Since this card costs three mana, it competes with traditional counters. The value comes from the 'or both' clause. It is most effective when your opponent attempts to resolve a non-creature threat while they also have creatures ready to swing at you. By waiting for the right moment, you can effectively trade one card for three pieces of interaction: one countered spell and two tapped creatures.

Interaction examples

Standard Disruption

Counterspell

If your opponent casts Counterspell to stop one of your creatures, you can respond with Amazing Acrobatics. By choosing both modes, you can counter their Counterspell and tap two of their blockers, clearing the way for your next turn's attack.

Handling Draw Triggers

Arcane Denial

If an opponent targets your Amazing Acrobatics with Arcane Denial, they are attempting to counter your spell while setting up card draw. If you have a way to copy Amazing Acrobatics, you could counter their Arcane Denial, preventing them from drawing those extra cards while still ensuring your original targets (like their creatures) are tapped.

Solo Utility

If you cast Amazing Acrobatics targeting only two creatures during your opponent's Beginning of Combat step, those creatures become tapped. When the game moves to the Declare Attackers step, those specific creatures are ineligible to be declared as attackers because they are already tapped.