Amped Raptor (Modern Horizons 3) Light Play
Amped Raptor is a compact red mana cost creature with first strike. It enters as a 2/1 and immediately presses the board with speed. On entry, you gain two energy counters, which can fuel broader energy based plays typical to Kaladesh inspired sets. The combination of a low cost and first strike makes it a reliable early beater in quick red decks, while the energy means it also scales into mid game if an early assault is delayed.
If you cast Amped Raptor from your hand, the card activates a cascade style effect. You exile cards from the top of your library until you exile a nonland card. You may cast that card by paying an amount of mana equal to its mana value rather than paying its mana cost. This gives you a potential follow up that rewards careful hand sequencing and top deck luck, especially when you already have the energy counters in play to accelerate a recast or a key spell. The result is a practical, dynamic addition to a red strategy that blends aggression with value plays.
Card Details:
- Mana Cost: {1}{R}
- Card Type: Creature
- Subtypes: Dinosaur
- Card Text: First strike. When Amped Raptor enters the battlefield, you get two energy counters. Then if you cast it from your hand, exile cards from the top of your library until you exile a nonland card. You may cast that card by paying an amount of mana equal to its mana value rather than paying its mana cost.
- Power / Toughness: 2/1