Springjack KnightHow it works & interactions with other cards

Winning the Clash

When Springjack Knight attacks, its ability triggers, initiating a clash. You and a chosen opponent reveal the top card of your libraries. A player wins if the card they revealed has a higher mana value than the other. If the cards have the same mana value, no one wins. Regardless of who wins, each player chooses whether to put their revealed card back on top of their library or move it to the bottom. If you win, the secondary effect activates, and you choose a target creature to gain double strike.

Resolution Step-by-Step

First, Springjack Knight is declared as an attacker, and its ability is put onto the stack. You must choose a target creature for the double strike effect at this time, even before you know if you will win the clash. Second, the ability resolves: you and your opponent reveal the top cards. Third, you compare mana values to determine the winner. Fourth, you both decide the new position of your cards. Finally, if you won, the target creature gains double strike until the end of the turn.

Common Pitfalls

A common mistake is thinking you can choose the target after winning the clash; however, targets must be selected when the ability is placed on the stack. Additionally, remember that land cards have a mana value of 0. If you reveal a land and your opponent reveals a non-land card, you will likely lose the clash. Another key rule is that if the target creature becomes illegal before the ability resolves (for example, if it is destroyed), the entire ability fails, and no clash occurs.

When to Play Springjack Knight

This card shines in decks with high mana value cards or ways to manipulate the top of the library. It is best used in aggressive white decks that need an extra push to get damage through. Because the double strike can be target 'any' creature, you can even use it to buff a different, larger attacker to ensure a lethal blow during the combat phase.

Interaction examples

Clashing with High Mana Values

Solemn Simulacrum

You attack with Springjack Knight and target it with its own ability. You reveal Solemn Simulacrum (mana value 4) and your opponent reveals a land (mana value 0). You win the clash! You choose to put the Golem back on top to draw it later. Springjack Knight gains double strike and deals damage twice during the combat phase.

Doubling the Duel

Roaming Throne

With Roaming Throne on the battlefield naming 'Kithkin', Springjack Knight's ability triggers twice when it attacks. You will perform two separate clashes. You could target the same creature twice or two different creatures. Even if you lose the first clash, you have a second chance to win the next one and grant double strike to your army.