Goblin RingleaderHow it works & interactions with other cards

A Swift Recruiter

Goblin Ringleader features two distinct abilities. First, Haste allows it to bypass summoning sickness, meaning it can attack or tap the same turn it enters the battlefield. Second, it has a triggered ability that occurs as soon as it enters. This ability looks at the top four cards of your library specifically for the 'Goblin' creature type. It is important to note that only cards with 'Goblin' on their type line count; spells that create Goblins but lack the subtype are ignored.

Step-by-Step Resolution

When Goblin Ringleader enters the battlefield, its ability is put onto the stack. When it resolves, you reveal the top four cards of your library to all players. You must identify every card that has the 'Goblin' subtype and move them into your hand. Any remaining cards that were revealed are placed on the bottom of your library. You can choose the order in which these non-Goblin cards are placed on the bottom.

When to Deploy the Ringleader

Because this creature has Haste, it is an excellent follow-up after a board wipe to pressure your opponent immediately. However, its primary value is card advantage. It is best played when your hand is low on resources or when you are searching for specific utility Goblins. Since the cards go to the bottom of the library, it also helps filter through land-heavy portions of your deck.

Common Mistakes

A common error is trying to take cards that mention Goblins but are not Goblins themselves. For example, a Sorcery that creates Goblin tokens is not a 'Goblin card' unless it also has the Goblin subtype (like a Tribal spell). Additionally, remember that you must reveal all four cards; you cannot look at them privately first and then decide what to show.

Interaction examples

The Doubling Effect

Roaming Throne

If you control Roaming Throne with 'Goblin' chosen as the creature type, Goblin Ringleader's enters-the-battlefield ability triggers twice. You will reveal the top four cards, put the Goblins in your hand, and then reveal the next top four cards to do it again, potentially drawing up to eight cards total.

Missing the Golem

Solemn Simulacrum

When you resolve Goblin Ringleader's ability and reveal Solemn Simulacrum among the top four cards, the Simulacrum must go to the bottom of the library. Even though it is a creature, it does not have the 'Goblin' subtype, so it cannot be put into your hand by this effect.

Hasty Pressure

You cast Goblin Ringleader for four mana. It enters the battlefield, you reveal four cards and find two Goblins to add to your hand. Because the Ringleader has Haste, you can immediately declare it as an attacker during your combat phase, even though it was played this turn.