Batroc the LeaperHow it works & interactions with other cards

Scaling with Multikicker

Batroc the Leaper features Multikicker {2}, an optional cost you can pay as many times as you want while casting the spell. For each {2} you spend beyond his initial mana cost of {1}{R}, Batroc enters the battlefield with an additional +1/+1 counter. This means if you kick him twice for an extra {4}, he enters as a 3/3 creature.

Resolving the Entrance Trigger

When Batroc enters the battlefield, his triggered ability goes on the stack. You choose up to X targets, where X is the number of times he was kicked. If you didn't kick him, the trigger still happens, but X is 0, meaning no targets can be chosen. The damage dealt to each target is equal to Batroc's power at the time the ability resolves, which includes the counters he gained from being kicked.

Targeting and Power Checks

A common mistake is forgetting that you must choose your targets when the ability is put on the stack. If Batroc's power changes before the ability resolves—for example, if he is pumped by an instant—he will deal that updated amount of damage. However, if Batroc leaves the battlefield before the ability resolves, it uses his 'last known information' to determine how much damage to deal.

When to Play Batroc

Batroc is highly flexible. Early in the game, he can be a simple 1/1 for two mana to pressure opponents. Later, he serves as a powerful removal spell. Because he can target multiple creatures or players, he is best used to clear away several small threats at once while establishing a large body on the board.

Interaction examples

Generating the Necessary Mana

Ornithopter of Paradise

You control Ornithopter of Paradise and tap it for mana to help pay for Batroc's Multikicker. If you spend {1}{R} for the spell and {2} for one kick, Batroc enters with one +1/+1 counter as a 2/2. His trigger allows you to target up to one creature or player to deal 2 damage to it.

Clearing the Path for Combat

Professional Face-Breaker

With Professional Face-Breaker on the field, you cast Batroc the Leaper and kick him twice (total cost {5}{R}). Batroc enters as a 3/3 and targets two blockers your opponent controls. Batroc deals 3 damage to each, destroying them. Now that the path is clear, Professional Face-Breaker can attack and deal combat damage to the player, triggering its ability to create a Treasure token.