Well, the important factor here is how double strike works. When a creature is unblocked, it’s pretty common practice to just shortcut to dealing double the creature’s power in damage. This is usually fine and approximates the outcome, but in cases like Medomai’s, where there’s a trigger from dealing combat damage, it’s important to be aware that double strike really does mean “two strikes” as opposed to “double damage.” When a creature with first strike or double strike is in combat, there’s a second combat damage step created immediately after the first. So Medomai deals 4 damage in the first damage step and triggers to give you an extra turn. Then in the second damage step, Medomai deals 4 more damage, and again triggers to give you an extra turn! So that means after this turn ends, you’ll take 2 extra turns before your opponent gets to take a turn. Of course, Medomai can’t attack during either of those extra turns, but I’m sure you’ll find a way to make use of them anyway!
Today’s Rules Tip written by Josh Stansfield