Stromkirk PatrolHow it works & interactions with other cards

What It Does

Stromkirk Patrol features a triggered ability that triggers whenever it deals combat damage to a player. Combat damage is specifically damage dealt during the combat damage step of a turn; it does not include non-combat damage from spells or other abilities. Each time the Patrol connects with an opponent's life total, it receives a +1/+1 counter, making it progressively harder to block or destroy in subsequent turns.

Step-by-Step Resolution

First, Stromkirk Patrol must attack and not be blocked, or have a way to deal damage to a player despite being blocked. Once it deals combat damage to a player, its ability triggers and is put onto the stack. Players then have the opportunity to respond with spells or abilities. If the ability resolves, you place one +1/+1 counter on Stromkirk Patrol. If the creature is no longer on the battlefield when the ability tries to resolve, the counter cannot be placed.

Common Mistakes

A frequent error is assuming the counter is placed before damage is calculated. Since the ability triggers 'whenever' it deals damage, the damage is already dealt based on its current power; the boost only applies to future instances of damage. Additionally, remember that this ability only triggers when damaging a player, not when damaging a planeswalker or a blocking creature.

When to Play It

You should prioritize playing Stromkirk Patrol in formats where the board state allows for consistent attacks. It excels when paired with effects that grant evasion, such as flying or menace, or with cards that double triggered abilities to accelerate its growth. Because it starts as a 3/4 for five mana, ensuring it can survive its first few attacks is key to its utility.

Interaction examples

Double the Growth

Roaming Throne

If you have Roaming Throne on the battlefield with 'Vampire' chosen as the creature type, Stromkirk Patrol's ability triggers an additional time. When the Patrol deals combat damage to a player, you will put two +1/+1 counters on it instead of one, effectively doubling its scaling speed.

The Value Trade

Solemn Simulacrum

If your opponent blocks Stromkirk Patrol with Solemn Simulacrum, the Patrol deals 3 damage to the Golem. Because the damage was dealt to a creature and not a player, the Patrol's ability does not trigger, and it receives no +1/+1 counters. The Solemn Simulacrum dies, allowing its owner to draw a card, while your Patrol remains a 3/4.

Direct Player Strike

Stromkirk Patrol attacks an opponent who has no blockers. It deals 3 combat damage to the player. The triggered ability goes on the stack and resolves, placing a +1/+1 counter on the Patrol. It is now a 4/5 creature, ready to deal 4 damage during the next combat phase.