How MTG Explore mechanic and its Map token evolution work

Wizards of the Coast has brought back a Magic: The Gathering mechanic called Explore through the Lost Caverns of Ixalan set, expanding upon the keyword action through a new Artifact called Map tokens.

The MTG Explore mechanic was first introduced through Ixalan as a keyword action and is slated to return to the Standard format through Lost Caverns of Ixalan (LCI). Synergizing with the mechanic’s return are Map tokens, an Artifact that can Explore upon paying an activated cost while sacrificing itself. And joining Explore within the LCI set is a new keyword action mechanic called Discover, which also reveals cards from the top of your library while having its own unique function within gameplay. 

MTG Explore mechanic, explained

The Explore keyword action typically involves a trigger, whether it’s from a creature or through an Artifact like Map tokens. Many of the creatures from the original Ixalan set triggered the mechanic upon entering the battlefield. WotC changed things up in LCI through creatures like Miner’s Guidewing, in which another creature you control Explores when the bird dies. 

• Explore definition: Reveal the top card of your library. Put that card into your hand if it’s a land. Otherwise, put a +1/+1 counter on that creature, then put the card back or put it into your graveyard. 

Explore is a powerful mechanic in that it supports ramp archetypes looking for additional lands while also allowing players to put the card back on top of the library if it wasn’t a land. Players can then choose where to put that non-land card, whether it is on the top of the library or in the graveyard. And reanimation decks love cards that can get tossed into the graveyard.  

Map tokens

Map tokens were first introduced through Lost Caverns of Ixalan as another way to Explore within MTG. Most Explore triggers took place upon a creature entering the battlefield through the Ixalan set.  WotC continued that trend with a twist in LCI through a creature like Waterwind Scout, which creates a Map token upon entering the battlefield. 

• Map token definition: Pay one mana of any color, Tap, and sacrifice this Artifact—Target creature you control Explores. Activate only as a Sorcery. 

Much like the death trigger on Miner’s Guidewing, a Map token has you target a creature that Explores. 

Players can dive into the new MTG Explore mechanic variants through Lost Caverns of Ixalan, which drops into local game stores on Nov. 10 and has a global launch on Nov. 17.