Kraul StingerHow it works & interactions with other cards

Lethal Precision

Kraul Stinger possesses the keyword ability Deathtouch. This means that any amount of damage this creature deals to another creature is considered lethal damage. Because it only requires 1 point of damage to destroy its target, it can trade favorably with massive monsters that have much higher power and toughness.

Combat Resolution Step-by-Step

When Kraul Stinger enters combat, the process is simple. First, it is declared as either an attacker or a blocker. If it deals damage to a creature during the combat damage step, a state-based action checks the game state. Because the damage came from a source with deathtouch, the receiving creature is destroyed immediately, regardless of its total toughness or how much damage it has already taken.

Common Misconceptions

A common mistake is thinking Deathtouch applies to damage dealt to players or planeswalkers; it only affects creatures. Additionally, remember that Deathtouch does not bypass Indestructible. If Kraul Stinger damages a creature with Indestructible, that creature will not be destroyed by the deathtouch effect.

Strategic Deployment

You should play Kraul Stinger when you need to stall your opponent's ground assault. It acts as a 'rattlesnake' card, discouraging your opponent from attacking with their best creatures because they don't want to lose them to a three-mana common. It is particularly effective in Limited formats where high-toughness blockers are prevalent.

Interaction examples

Trading with Value

Solemn Simulacrum

If your opponent attacks with Solemn Simulacrum, you can block with Kraul Stinger. During the damage step, both creatures deal damage to each other. Because Kraul Stinger has deathtouch, the 2/2 Solemn Simulacrum is destroyed. Your opponent will still get to draw a card from the Simulacrum's death trigger, but their board presence is eliminated.

Timing the Block

Sakura-Tribe Elder

If you attack with Kraul Stinger and your opponent blocks with Sakura-Tribe Elder, they have a choice. They can allow the damage to happen, in which case Sakura-Tribe Elder is destroyed by deathtouch. Alternatively, they can sacrifice Sakura-Tribe Elder to search for a land before damage is dealt. If they sacrifice it, Kraul Stinger remains on the battlefield but deals no damage since its blocker is gone.