Ojutai ExemplarsHow it works & interactions with other cards

Choosing Your Path

Whenever you cast a noncreature spell, a triggered ability goes on the stack with three distinct modes. You must choose one mode: tapping a creature, granting Ojutai Exemplars first strike and lifelink, or 'blinking' it by exiling it and returning it to the battlefield tapped. Because this triggers on casting, the ability will resolve before your original spell does, allowing you to react to your opponent's actions in real-time.

The Blink Mechanic

The third mode is a powerful defensive tool that allows Ojutai Exemplars to exile itself and return. When it returns, it is considered a brand-new object with no memory of its previous existence. This means it will no longer be in combat, and any Auras or +1/+1 counters that were on it will be lost. Note that if Ojutai Exemplars is removed from the battlefield in response to this ability, the ability fails to find it and cannot return it to play.

Strategic Timing

To maximize Ojutai Exemplars, timing is everything. Using the first strike and lifelink mode during your declare attackers step can swing a race in your favor. Conversely, the tap mode is perfect for removing a problematic blocker or stopping a large attacker before it can declare an attack. Always remember that once the 'blink' mode is chosen, the creature returns tapped, meaning it won't be available to block for the remainder of that turn cycle.

Interaction examples

Controlling the Board

Solemn Simulacrum

If your opponent controls a Solemn Simulacrum that you want to prevent from blocking, you can cast a noncreature spell and choose the first mode. The trigger resolves first, tapping the Golem. Your original spell then resolves, and Ojutai Exemplars is free to attack a now-defenseless board.

Double the Discipline

Roaming Throne

If you have Roaming Throne on the battlefield with 'Human' or 'Monk' chosen, Ojutai Exemplars will trigger twice for every noncreature spell you cast. This allows you to combine effects, such as tapping an enemy creature and then exiling Ojutai Exemplars to protect it from a removal spell targeting it.

Dodging Removal

If an opponent targets Ojutai Exemplars with a destruction spell, you can respond by casting an instant. Choose the third mode: exile the Exemplars and return them. When the opponent's spell tries to resolve, its original target is gone, and the spell will fail to resolve. The Ojutai Exemplars that returns is a new object and is safe.