The ability of a creature’s arrival on the battlefield to trigger the immediate removal of an opposing creature or enchantment represents a significant form of control. For example, a creature might enter play, and its triggered ability allows its controller to eliminate a problematic enchantment hindering their strategy, or remove a creature that poses an immediate threat. This type of triggered ability provides instant value upon the creature’s resolution.
This “enters-the-battlefield” trigger, coupled with targeted removal, provides both tempo and card advantage. It allows for immediate board state manipulation, potentially disrupting an opponent’s plans and shifting the game’s momentum. Historically, cards possessing such abilities have been highly valued in various formats due to their efficiency and versatility in addressing diverse threats.