Arbalest EliteHow it works & interactions with other cards

Sharpshooting the Battlefield

The activated ability of Arbalest Elite requires two things: three mana and tapping the creature itself. It can only target a creature currently in combat—specifically one that has been declared as an attacker or a blocker. Once the ability resolves, it deals 3 damage to that target, which is often enough to eliminate utility creatures or finish off wounded giants.

The Cost of Power

Firing the arbalest comes with a significant drawback: the 'skipped untap' effect. After the ability resolves, Arbalest Elite remains tapped during your next untap step. It is important to note that this effect only applies once. If the ability is countered or the target becomes illegal before resolution, the 'doesn't untap' penalty never applies. Additionally, if the creature changes control before your next untap step, the restriction is lost.

Common Timing Mistakes

A common error is trying to target a creature after combat has ended. A creature is only an 'attacking' or 'blocking' creature from the moment it is declared as such until the end of combat step concludes. Once the game moves to the second main phase, those creatures are no longer valid targets. Also, remember that tapping Arbalest Elite for this ability after it has already been declared as a blocker will not remove it from combat, but it will prevent it from untapping later.

Tactical Deployment

Since Arbalest Elite effectively takes itself out of commission for a turn, you should use it as a deterrent. Your opponent may choose not to attack with 3-toughness creatures simply because you have the mana open. It is best played in defensive decks where you can afford to have a stationary turret holding the line.

Interaction examples

Defending Against the Golem

Solemn Simulacrum

Your opponent attacks with Solemn Simulacrum. During the declare attackers step, you spend three mana and tap Arbalest Elite to target the Golem. The ability resolves, dealing 3 damage to Solemn Simulacrum. Since the Golem has 2 toughness, it dies, and its owner may draw a card. Arbalest Elite will now remain tapped during your next untap step.

Interactions with Roaming Throne

Roaming Throne

If you control Roaming Throne with 'Human' chosen, it is important to note that Arbalest Elite's ability is an activated ability (indicated by the colon), not a triggered ability. Therefore, Roaming Throne will not cause the damage ability to trigger a second time. You will still only deal 3 damage per activation.

Failed Shots and Recovery

If you activate Arbalest Elite targeting an attacker, but your opponent uses a spell to give that attacker protection from white, the target becomes illegal. The ability fails to resolve. Because the ability did not resolve, the effect stating the Elite doesn't untap never applies, and it will untap normally during your next untap step.