Amped Raptor: First Strike Dynamo

Amped Raptor arrives with a quick stake in the ground and a keen edge. It costs {1}{R} and carries a lean 2/1 with first strike, making it a reliable early pressure piece. When it enters the battlefield you gain two energy counters, fueling future plays. If you cast it from your hand, you exile cards from the top of your library until you exile a nonland card, and you may cast that card by paying energy equal to its mana value rather than paying its mana cost. This mechanic rewards thoughtful sequencing and tempo, letting you push through with a fast start and optional follow up.

In the broader Modern Horizons 3 environment, Amped Raptor fits a strategy that blends aggression with energy synergy. It functions as a sturdy early threat while offering a contained hazard and payoff if you lean into energy generation and expenditure. The card rewards mindful play—balancing what you cast, when you cast it, and which nonlands you pull from the top of your library for a potential rebound effect in the same turn or the near future.

Card Details:

• Mana Cost – {1}{R}
• Card Type – Creature
• Subtypes – Dinosaur
• Card Text / Rules Text (Printed) – First strike. When Amped Raptor enters the battlefield, you get 2 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 energy equal to its mana value rather than paying its mana cost.
• Power / Toughness – 2/1
• Loyalty – N/A