Vodalian HexcatcherHow it works & interactions with other cards

A Flashy Lord with Benefits

As a creature with Flash, Vodalian Hexcatcher can be played at any time you could cast an instant. Once on the battlefield, it grants other Merfolk you control +1/+1. Its most potent feature, however, is the activated ability that allows you to sacrifice any Merfolk to counter a target noncreature spell unless its controller pays {1}.

Resolution Step-by-Step

When an opponent casts a noncreature spell, you can activate Vodalian Hexcatcher's ability. First, you announce the ability and choose the target spell. Second, you pay the cost by sacrificing a Merfolk you control. The ability then goes on the stack; when it resolves, the opponent must choose to pay {1} or their spell is countered and put into the graveyard.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Remember that the sacrifice ability only targets noncreature spells. You cannot use it to counter creature spells, even if they have enters-the-battlefield abilities. Additionally, since the cost is sacrificing a Merfolk, you can sacrifice Vodalian Hexcatcher itself to pay for its own ability, as it is a Merfolk creature.

When to Cast It

Ideally, hold Vodalian Hexcatcher in your hand to surprise your opponent. You can cast it during their end step to prepare for an attack, or in response to a noncreature spell to immediately threaten the board with your sacrifice ability.

Interaction examples

Protecting the Board

Foundry Inspector

If your opponent casts Foundry Inspector, Vodalian Hexcatcher cannot counter it because Foundry Inspector is a creature spell. The taxing ability only applies to noncreature spells like Sorceries, Instants, or noncreature Artifacts.

Strategic Sacrificing

Ornithopter of Paradise

If your opponent attempts to cast a powerful noncreature spell, you can sacrifice a Merfolk to activate Vodalian Hexcatcher. Even if your opponent has mana from Ornithopter of Paradise, they must choose to tap it to pay the {1} tax or lose their spell entirely.