Reluctant Dounguard

Description

Reluctant Dounguard, card number 31 from the 2026 Lorwyn Eclipsed expansion, captures the essence of Magic: The Gathering’s strategic depth through its unique combat mechanics. As a common Creature — Kithkin Soldier, this card offers collectors a tangible piece of the game’s evolving lore and tactical landscape. The design by Paolo Parente provides a visual anchor for fans of the Kithkin tribe, making it a notable addition for those building thematic collections within the Lorwyn Eclipsed set. In gameplay, Reluctant Dounguard presents a fascinating risk-reward dynamic for players. With a mana cost of {2}{W} and a mana value of 3, this white mana creature enters the battlefield with two -1/-1 counters, immediately impacting its stats. However, its triggered ability allows it to recover quickly: whenever another creature you control enters the battlefield while this soldier still bears a -1/-1 counter, one of those counters is removed. This mechanic encourages synergistic deck-building, rewarding players who focus on token strategies or aggressive creature deployment. Whether you are completing a set, hunting for specific tribal synergies, or simply appreciating the intricate design work of Paolo Parente, this card stands out as a key component of the 2026 release. The interplay between its initial weakness and its potential for rapid recovery makes it a favorite among mechanics-focused players. Explore the broader Lorwyn Eclipsed collection to find other essential pieces for your Magic: The Gathering inventory.