Kykar, Zephyr AwakenerHow it works & interactions with other cards

What it does

Kykar, Zephyr Awakener features a triggered ability that activates whenever you cast a noncreature spell. This includes artifacts, enchantments, instants, sorceries, and planeswalkers. When this happens, you get to choose between two distinct modes: exiling another creature you control until the next end step (a 'flicker' effect) or creating a 1/1 white Spirit creature token with flying.

How it resolves step by step

First, you cast a noncreature spell. Kykar's ability triggers and is put on the stack on top of that spell. You must choose one of the two modes at this time. If you choose the first mode, you must target another creature you control. The ability then resolves: either the token is created, or the creature is exiled. If a creature is exiled, a delayed triggered ability is created to return it to the battlefield at the start of the next end step. Finally, your original noncreature spell resolves.

Common mistakes

A common mistake is trying to target Kykar, Zephyr Awakener with its own exile ability; however, the text specifies 'another target creature.' Also, remember that the creature returns under its owner's control, not necessarily yours if you had stolen it. Lastly, if you cast a noncreature spell during an end step, the exiled creature won't return until the beginning of the next turn's end step.

When to play it

Kykar is best utilized in decks with high noncreature spell counts and creatures with powerful 'enters-the-battlefield' effects. Use the exile mode to save a key creature from targeted removal or to reuse a card's ability. Use the token mode when you need blockers or are looking to finish the game with a wide board of flying attackers.

Interaction examples

Maximizing Value with Roaming Throne

Kykar, Zephyr AwakenerRoaming Throne

If Roaming Throne enters and you choose 'Bird' or 'Wizard', Kykar's ability will trigger twice whenever you cast a noncreature spell. This allows you to choose both modes—flickering a creature and creating a Spirit—or double up on one mode for every single noncreature spell you cast.

Ramping with Solemn Simulacrum

Kykar, Zephyr AwakenerSolemn Simulacrum

With Solemn Simulacrum on the battlefield, cast a noncreature spell and choose Kykar's first mode to exile the Simulacrum. At the next end step, the Simulacrum returns to the battlefield, triggering its ability again to search your library for another basic land card.

Creating an Aerial Army

Kykar, Zephyr AwakenerSpirit

By casting multiple low-cost noncreature spells in a single turn, you can choose the second mode each time to create a swarm of 1/1 white Spirit tokens. Since these tokens have flying, they can quickly overwhelm an opponent who lacks reach or flying blockers.