LexivoreHow it works & interactions with other cards

Identifying the Most Text

Lexivore's ability triggers whenever it deals damage to a player. You must count the number of lines of text in the text boxes of every permanent on the battlefield, excluding Lexivore itself. The permanent with the highest number of lines is the mandatory target for destruction. If there is a tie for the most lines, you may choose any one of those tied permanents.

Step-by-Step Resolution

First, Lexivore deals damage to a player, which puts its ability on the stack. Second, you examine the text boxes of all eligible permanents. You count each line of rules text and flavor text as written on the card (or its Oracle equivalent for clarity). Third, you choose the target that meets the criteria and place the ability on the stack. Finally, the ability resolves and the target is destroyed.

Common Mistakes

A common error is forgetting that this ability is not optional; if there is a valid target, you must destroy it, even if it belongs to you. Additionally, remember that Lexivore cannot target itself. When counting lines, look at the physical layout of the card or the official Oracle text breakdown; symbols and keyword reminders that take up their own lines count toward the total.

Strategic Timing

Lexivore is most effective when your opponent has complex engines or planeswalkers with multiple loyalty abilities, as these typically have many lines of text. Use it to pick off high-value artifacts or enchantments that provide multiple benefits, as those are statistically the most likely targets for Lexivore's hunger.

Interaction examples

Simulacrum Snack

Solemn Simulacrum

Lexivore deals damage to your opponent. On the battlefield, Solemn Simulacrum has two distinct paragraphs of rules text totaling three to four lines depending on the printing. If it has the most lines among all permanents, Lexivore's trigger targets and destroys it, allowing its owner to draw a card.

Double the Hunger

Roaming Throne

If Roaming Throne enters and you choose 'Beast', Lexivore's triggered ability will trigger twice when it deals damage to a player. Since Roaming Throne itself has four lines of rules text, it is a very likely candidate to be the target with the most lines. Lexivore could potentially destroy Roaming Throne with the first trigger and another complex permanent with the second.