Goblin CohortHow it works & interactions with other cards

Unpacking the Restriction

The ability on Goblin Cohort creates a requirement for the declare attackers step. It checks if the condition 'you've cast a creature spell this turn' is true at the moment you would choose to attack. If you haven't cast a creature spell, the Cohort simply cannot be selected as an attacker. Note that this only applies to attacking; it can always block regardless of whether you cast a spell.

Step-by-Step Execution

First, you must cast a creature spell during your pre-combat main phase. The spell does not need to resolve; even if it is countered, the condition for Goblin Cohort is met because the act of casting occurred. Once you move to the combat phase, the game checks the turn history. Seeing that a creature spell was cast, the restriction is lifted, and you may declare Goblin Cohort as an attacker.

Common Pitfalls

A common mistake is assuming that creatures entering the battlefield via abilities count toward the Cohort's requirement. If a creature is put onto the battlefield without being cast, such as through a blink effect or a reanimation spell, it does not count. Additionally, casting the Goblin Cohort itself does not satisfy its own requirement for that turn, as the check only looks for other creature spells cast by you.

Strategic Timing

Because Goblin Cohort costs only one mana, it is often played on turn one. However, it will usually sit idle until turn two or three when you can follow it up with another threat. To maximize efficiency, save your lowest-cost creatures or those with Dash to ensure the Cohort can swing every combat phase.

Interaction examples

Fueling the Charge with Ornithopter

Ornithopter of Paradise

On your second turn, you have Goblin Cohort on the field from turn one. You cast Ornithopter of Paradise. Even though the Ornithopter is an artifact, it is also a creature spell. Once you have cast it, the requirement for Goblin Cohort is satisfied, allowing you to attack with the Cohort during your combat phase.

Using Dash to Trigger Attacks

Ragavan, Nimble Pilferer

If you cast Ragavan, Nimble Pilferer for its Dash cost, it counts as casting a creature spell. This fulfills Goblin Cohort's requirement. You can then attack with both the Cohort and the Monkey Pirate, exerting significant pressure on your opponent before Ragavan returns to your hand at the end of the turn.

Countered Spells Still Count

Ornithopter of Paradise

You attempt to cast Ornithopter of Paradise, but your opponent uses a counterspell to stop it. Because you still technically 'cast' the creature spell, Goblin Cohort's restriction is removed for the turn, and it is free to attack despite your Ornithopter never reaching the battlefield.