Kid LokiHow it works & interactions with other cards

Granting Hexproof

Kid Loki provides a static ability that grants hexproof to any creature you control, but only if you have placed one or more +1/+1 counters on that specific creature during the current turn. This protection is not permanent; it only lasts as long as the 'this turn' condition is met. If an opponent attempts to target a creature you just buffed, Kid Loki ensures they cannot succeed.

Triggering the Counter

Kid Loki has a triggered ability that goes on the stack whenever you draw your second card in a single turn. Once this ability resolves, you put a +1/+1 counter on Kid Loki. Because he has now received a counter this turn, his first ability immediately applies to himself, giving him hexproof until the turn ends.

Timing and Protection

It is a common mistake to assume Kid Loki always provides hexproof. The hexproof only applies after the counter is placed. If your opponent casts a removal spell in response to the 'second card' trigger, Kid Loki does not yet have hexproof because the counter has not been placed yet. Always ensure your draw spells resolve before relying on his protection.

Optimal Play Patterns

To maximize Kid Loki, use instant-speed draw effects or abilities during your opponent's turn. This allows Kid Loki to grow and gain hexproof twice per round—once on your turn and once on theirs—making him a difficult threat to remove while protecting other creatures you might be targeting with counters.

Interaction examples

Growing with Faerie Mastermind

Faerie Mastermind

Step 1: You have Kid Loki and Faerie Mastermind on the battlefield. Step 2: On your opponent's turn, they draw their second card. Step 3: Faerie Mastermind triggers, and you draw a card. Step 4: Since this is your second card of the turn (following your normal draw step), Kid Loki triggers. Step 5: You place a +1/+1 counter on Kid Loki, and he gains hexproof for the rest of that turn.

Protecting Your Mana Base

Ornithopter of Paradise

Step 1: You cast a spell or use an effect to put a +1/+1 counter on Ornithopter of Paradise. Step 2: Kid Loki's static ability checks the current turn's history. Step 3: Because Ornithopter of Paradise received a counter this turn, it now has hexproof. Step 4: Your opponent can no longer target the Ornithopter of Paradise with removal spells for the remainder of the turn.