Flanking TroopsHow it works & interactions with other cards

Tactical Tapping

Flanking Troops features a triggered ability that triggers specifically when it is declared as an attacker. The ability allows you to target any creature on the battlefield, including those controlled by your opponents or even your own. Because the ability uses the word 'may,' you have the choice to tap the target or leave it as is when the ability resolves.

Resolution Step-by-Step

First, you move to the Declare Attackers step and choose Flanking Troops as an attacking creature. Once it is tapped and declared, the ability goes on the stack and you must choose a target creature. Your opponents then have a chance to respond with spells or abilities. If the ability resolves, the target creature becomes tapped, meaning it will be unavailable to be declared as a blocker during the next step of combat.

Common Pitfalls

A common mistake is trying to tap a creature that was already declared as a blocker. Because the ability triggers during the Declare Attackers step, the target is tapped before the Declare Blockers step begins. If you wait until after your opponent has blocked, it is too late to use Flanking Troops to prevent that block. Additionally, remember that tapping a creature that is already tapped is a legal action, though it usually has no additional effect.

Optimal Timing

The best time to play Flanking Troops is when your opponent relies on a single powerful creature to hold the line. By removing that creature's ability to block, you force your opponent to take damage or trade less valuable creatures. It is also an excellent tool for tapping down creatures with powerful activated abilities that require tapping, forcing your opponent to use them prematurely or lose the chance for the turn.

Interaction examples

Clearing the Path

Solemn Simulacrum

If your opponent has a Solemn Simulacrum ready to block and die to draw them a card, you can attack with Flanking Troops and target the Simulacrum. The Simulacrum becomes tapped during the Declare Attackers step, preventing it from being declared as a blocker. This allows your damage to go through to the opponent without triggering the Golem's death ability.

Doubling the Pressure

Roaming Throne

If you control Roaming Throne and chose 'Human' or 'Soldier' as it entered, Flanking Troops' ability will trigger twice whenever it attacks. This allows you to target and tap two different creatures your opponent controls, effectively neutralizing their entire front line and leaving them wide open for a massive assault.