Minotaur ExplorerHow it works & interactions with other cards

A Random Sacrifice

Minotaur Explorer features a triggered ability that triggers specifically when it enters the battlefield. Unlike cards that require a discard as an additional cost to cast, this ability goes on the stack after the creature is already in play. You are faced with a choice: discard a card chosen at random from your hand, or sacrifice the Minotaur Explorer. If your hand is empty when the ability resolves, you cannot discard a card at random, and you must sacrifice the creature.

Step-by-Step Resolution

First, you cast Minotaur Explorer and it enters the battlefield. Second, the 'enters' trigger is placed on the stack, and players may respond with spells or abilities. Third, as the ability resolves, you decide whether you want to discard a card at random. If you have cards in hand and choose to discard, you must determine which card is lost randomly (such as by rolling a die). Finally, if you choose not to discard or cannot discard because your hand is empty, the Minotaur Explorer is moved from the battlefield to your graveyard.

Strategic Timing and Common Pitfalls

A common mistake is thinking you can choose which card to discard; the Oracle text specifically states the discard is 'at random.' Additionally, because this is an 'enters' trigger and not a casting cost, your opponent can respond to the trigger by casting a spell to empty your hand or by destroying the Minotaur before you even get the chance to discard. It is often best played when you have only one card in hand that you are willing to lose, or when your hand is full of high-value targets you can afford to risk for an early-game threat.

Interaction examples

Fueling the Explorer

Ornithopter of Paradise

You use Ornithopter of Paradise to tap for Red mana, helping you cast Minotaur Explorer on turn two. When the Explorer enters, you have three other cards in hand. You roll a four-sided die to choose a card at random. You discard a land, satisfying the requirement, and Minotaur Explorer remains on the battlefield as a powerful 3/3 attacker.

Exile vs. Random Discard

Professional Face-Breaker

You have Professional Face-Breaker on the field and one card in your hand. You sacrifice a Treasure to exile the top card of your library with the Face-Breaker's ability. You then cast Minotaur Explorer. When its ability resolves, you must discard the one card remaining in your hand at random to keep the Minotaur. Because the card exiled by Professional Face-Breaker is in the exile zone and not in your hand, it is safe from the Explorer's random discard trigger.