Tin Street CadetHow it works & interactions with other cards

A Reinforcement Engine

Tin Street Cadet has a triggered ability that responds specifically to the declare blockers step. As soon as your opponent designates one or more creatures to block this card, the ability triggers and goes on the stack. Regardless of whether the Cadet survives the ensuing combat, you will receive a 1/1 red Goblin creature token to bolster your forces.

Resolution Step-by-Step

First, you move to the combat phase and declare Tin Street Cadet as an attacker. Next, your opponent declares their blockers; if they choose any creature to block the Cadet, the triggered ability is placed on the stack before combat damage is dealt. The ability then resolves, placing a 1/1 red Goblin creature token onto the battlefield. Finally, combat damage is assigned and dealt simultaneously between the Cadet and its blocker.

Common Pitfalls

A common mistake is assuming you get multiple tokens if the Cadet is blocked by multiple creatures. The ability triggers when the creature 'becomes blocked,' which happens only once per combat, regardless of how many creatures are assigned to block it. Additionally, if the Cadet is removed from combat or destroyed before the declare blockers step, no token will be generated.

Strategic Deployment

Play Tin Street Cadet early in the game to apply pressure. Because it generates a Goblin token upon being blocked, it effectively replaces itself, making your opponent hesitant to trade their small creatures for it. It is particularly effective in decks that benefit from having a high number of creatures or those that utilize Goblin tribal synergies.

Interaction examples

The Thopter Block

Ornithopter of ParadiseGoblin

You attack with Tin Street Cadet. Your opponent blocks with Ornithopter of Paradise. The Cadet's ability triggers, and you create a 1/1 red Goblin token. Because the Ornithopter has 0 power, the Cadet survives the combat while the Ornithopter remains on the battlefield, but you have successfully grown your board state.

Trading with the Monkey

Ragavan, Nimble PilfererGoblin

You attack with Tin Street Cadet. The opponent blocks with Ragavan, Nimble Pilferer. The Cadet's ability triggers immediately, creating a 1/1 red Goblin token. When combat damage is dealt, both the Cadet and Ragavan deal 1 damage to each other and are destroyed. You have successfully traded your 1-drop for a legendary threat while keeping a Goblin token behind.