Battle-Scarred Goblin (LTR)

Battle-Scarred Goblin
Casting Cost: {1}{R}
Card Type: Creature - Goblin Warrior
Power/Toughness: 2/2
Card Text:
Whenever Battle-Scarred Goblin becomes blocked, it deals 1 damage to each creature blocking it.
Flavour Text:
"An Orc shot Balin from behind a stone. We slew the Orc, but many more came." -Book of Mazarbul
Artist: Hristo D. Chukov

Card Strengths and Weaknesses:

• Offensive Potential: At a 2/2 for 2 mana, the card has a decent power-to-cost ratio, and its ability makes it especially problematic for opponents with weaker creatures.

• Disincentive to Block: Its ability serves as a deterrent for chump-blocking with weaker creatures, potentially allowing it to push through more damage.

• Lack of Keywords: The creature doesn't have any built-in evasive abilities like flying, trample, or haste, limiting its versatility.

• Limited Reach: The damage ability only triggers when it is blocked, making it less effective against unblocked attacks or when used defensively.

Deck Utility:

• Aggro Decks: It's a decent pick for red aggro decks, especially in limited formats where a 2/2 for 2 with an upside can be impactful.

• Goblin Tribal: It could fit into a Goblin-themed deck, potentially benefiting from various Goblin synergies.

• Burn Decks: While not a primary pick for most burn strategies, it could work as a supplementary creature to deal some extra damage.

Overall Analysis:

Battle-Scarred Goblin is a solid creature with a simple, yet effective, mechanic that encourages opponents to think twice before blocking it with weaker creatures. It's a budget-friendly option for newer players and can be a functional part of various aggressive and tribal strategies. While not overwhelmingly powerful, it is efficient for its cost and can set the stage for more potent plays later in the game.