Mardu RoughriderHow it works & interactions with other cards

Clear the Path

The ability of Mardu Roughrider is a triggered ability that occurs whenever it is declared as an attacker. When you move to the declare attackers step and tap Mardu Roughrider to attack, you immediately put its ability on the stack and choose a target creature. That target creature will be unable to block for the remainder of the turn, not just against Mardu Roughrider, but against any creature you are attacking with.

Step-by-Step Resolution

First, you enter the combat phase and move to the declare attackers step. Second, you declare Mardu Roughrider as an attacker, which triggers its ability. Third, you choose a target creature controlled by an opponent. Fourth, the ability resolves, and the chosen creature is flagged with a 'can't block' effect. Finally, the opponent moves to their declare blockers step, where they are unable to assign the targeted creature as a blocker for any incoming attacks.

Timing and Restrictions

A common mistake is forgetting that the target must be chosen when the ability triggers. You cannot wait to see how your opponent intends to block before choosing the target. Additionally, because the ability triggers 'whenever this creature attacks,' it only functions if Mardu Roughrider is declared as an attacker during the turn's turn-based action; if it is put onto the battlefield already attacking via another effect, the ability will not trigger.

Strategic Deployment

Use Mardu Roughrider to neutralize the opponent's only reach or flying defender, or to sideline a creature with a powerful 'death' trigger that your opponent wants to use as a chump blocker. Since the effect lasts until the end of the turn, it remains effective even if Mardu Roughrider is removed from combat after the ability has resolved.

Interaction examples

Doubling the Intimidation

Roaming Throne

If you control Roaming Throne and chose 'Orc' as it entered the battlefield, Mardu Roughrider's ability will trigger an additional time whenever it attacks. This allows you to target two different creatures and prevent both from blocking during that combat phase.

Pushing Through Damage

Solemn Simulacrum

If your opponent has a single large blocker, you can attack with both Mardu Roughrider and Solemn Simulacrum. Use the Roughrider's trigger to target the opponent's blocker. This ensures that even your Solemn Simulacrum gets its damage through, or forces your opponent to find a different way to interact with your board.