Jeskai BrushmasterHow it works & interactions with other cards

Dual Keywords Explained

Jeskai Brushmaster features two highly synergistic keywords: Double strike and Prowess. Double strike allows the creature to deal both first-strike and regular combat damage, effectively doubling its power during the combat phase. Prowess is a triggered ability that grants the creature +1/+1 until the end of the turn whenever you cast a noncreature spell, such as an artifact, enchantment, or instant.

Step-by-Step Resolution

When you cast a noncreature spell, the Prowess ability triggers and is put onto the stack on top of that spell. The Prowess trigger resolves first, increasing Jeskai Brushmaster's power and toughness before the original spell resolves. During combat, if Jeskai Brushmaster is unblocked, it will deal its current power in the first-strike damage step and then deal its current power again in the regular damage step.

Strategic Timing

To maximize damage, you should ideally cast your noncreature spells during your pre-combat main phase or during the declare blockers step. Because Prowess lasts until the end of the turn, any bonuses gained will apply to both hits of the double strike. Remember that Prowess only triggers upon casting; putting a permanent directly onto the battlefield without casting it will not trigger the ability.

Common Pitfalls

A common mistake is assuming that casting a creature spell will trigger Prowess; however, the ability specifically requires a 'noncreature' spell. Additionally, if Jeskai Brushmaster's first strike damage is enough to destroy a blocking creature, it will not deal regular combat damage unless it also has trample, as it is still considered 'blocked'.

Interaction examples

The Golem and the Monk

Solemn Simulacrum

If you cast Solemn Simulacrum while Jeskai Brushmaster is on the battlefield, Prowess will not trigger. Because Solemn Simulacrum has the 'Creature' type, it does not meet the requirement of being a noncreature spell, even though it is also an artifact.

Doubling the Prowess

Roaming Throne

If you control Roaming Throne and chose 'Orc' or 'Monk' as it entered, Jeskai Brushmaster's Prowess ability will trigger twice whenever you cast a noncreature spell. This allows the Brushmaster to get +2/+2 for every single noncreature spell cast, making its double strike hits incredibly dangerous.

Noncreature Artifact Interactions

If you cast a noncreature artifact like a Mana Signet, Prowess triggers. The Brushmaster becomes a 4/5 until end of turn. In combat, it deals 4 damage in the first-strike step and another 4 damage in the normal step, totaling 8 damage.