Decoding Rule 3.13 in Magic: The Gathering: Hidden Information and Fair Play

Rule 3.13 of the Magic: The Gathering Tournament Rules focuses on hidden information and how players are expected to behave regarding it during sanctioned events. In essence, Rule 3.13 states that players must not actively attempt to gain information hidden from them, while simultaneously not requiring players to inform opponents who are accidentally revealing hidden information. However, players are free to show their opponents any information they themselves are allowed to see, unless specifically prohibited by the rules. This seemingly simple rule encompasses a broad range of scenarios and aims to promote fair play while preserving the strategic depth inherent in the game. It’s a cornerstone of competitive MTG, emphasizing both the importance of protecting your own secrets and respecting the unintentional errors of your opponents. Understanding this rule is crucial for all players, from casual kitchen-table enthusiasts to competitive tournament veterans.

The Nuances of Hidden Information

The core of Rule 3.13 lies in the concept of hidden information. In Magic, this can refer to a variety of things, including:

• Cards in a player’s hand: What cards your opponent is holding is typically unknown.
• Cards in a player’s library: The order and specific cards within a player’s deck are private information.
• Face-down cards on the battlefield: This includes morph creatures or other face-down permanents.
• Face-down cards in exile: Certain cards can send others to exile face down, creating another area of hidden knowledge.

What constitutes actively attempting to gain hidden information?

Actively attempting to gain hidden information includes actions like:

• Peeking at an opponent’s hand: This is strictly prohibited.
• Trying to view the order of cards in a player’s deck: Even if you suspect manipulation, trying to look is an infraction.
• Examining a card your opponent has accidentally revealed for too long: The opportunity to glimpse something inadvertently is not an invitation for careful study.
• Manipulating card sleeves to identify a card within a player’s hand: This sort of marking is definitely considered cheating.

What does ‘not required to inform’ mean?

The second part of the rule is just as important: “players are not required to inform opponents who are accidentally revealing hidden information.” This means:

• If your opponent accidentally shows you a card in their hand, you don’t have to tell them. You may not actively pursue this, but if the opportunity arises, you can take advantage of this knowledge.
• If your opponent inadvertently reveals a card while shuffling, you are not required to point it out. You may, as it’s good sportsmanship, but you are not obligated.
• If a face-down card is accidentally turned over briefly, you are not required to pretend you didn’t see it. You are, however, not permitted to linger too long on that reveal.

Allowing Controlled Information Disclosure

The third part of the rule provides the balance; “Players can show their opponent any information that that player is allowed to see”. This allows for controlled disclosure, such as:

• Revealing your hand to your opponent: This is a common tactic in certain situations and is perfectly legal.
• Showing your opponent cards in your graveyard: You may show your graveyard to an opponent at any time, unless specifically prohibited by a card’s effects.
• Showing your opponent cards in exile: You may also show exiled cards if there is no rule that says you are not allowed to do so.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Rule 3.13

1. Can I ask my opponent what cards they have in their hand?

No. While you can ask if they have any cards of a specific type (e.g., “Do you have any instants?”), directly asking what cards are in their hand violates the spirit of hidden information.

2. Is it legal to pretend I didn’t see a card my opponent accidentally showed me?

Yes. While you are not required to say you saw it, you are not obligated to pretend you did not see it either. The rule allows you to take in and use any information you inadvertently gain from an opponent.

3. What happens if my opponent thinks they accidentally revealed a card, but actually didn’t?

They are not penalized for this error; it’s all about the information that was actually seen.

4. Can I look at my opponent’s graveyard without them allowing it?

Yes, players can look at their opponent’s graveyard at any time, unless a card specifically prevents it. This is not considered hidden information.

5. What is the penalty for actively attempting to gain hidden information?

The penalty can vary depending on the severity of the infraction, ranging from a warning to a disqualification from a sanctioned event. It is always better to be upfront about an accidental reveal or mistake.

6. Is it ok to ask my opponent what the exact text of a card in their hand is, if it’s a card I do not know?

You may not ask what card is in their hand, but if a card is on the battlefield and you are unsure of it’s rules text you are allowed to ask for a full text reveal. They must be honest and accurate.

7. Can I use information I gained from my opponent’s accidental reveal to influence my decision?

Yes. The rule states you are not required to tell them that you saw it, which implies that you may use the information you gained. This is part of the game’s strategic element.

8. What if I suspect my opponent is cheating by hiding cards in their sleeves?

Do not actively attempt to look at the card; instead, call a judge to the table. A judge will handle the situation and can take any required steps to ensure fair play.

9. Are there situations where showing information is required?

Yes, certain card effects or abilities may force a player to reveal their hand, a card in their library, or other hidden information to an opponent. These situations are dictated by the specific card’s rules text.

10. Does Rule 3.13 apply to casual games at home?

While not enforced as rigorously as in sanctioned events, the principles of Rule 3.13 – avoiding unfair information gains and acting honestly – are good guidelines for playing fairly in any Magic game. This applies to the Rule 0 of house rules, if a group agrees that the rules are to be ignored.

11. Can I look at my own library at any time?

Generally, no. You can only look at your library when instructed to do so by a card effect or ability, or if you are instructed to shuffle your deck.

12. Is there a time limit on how long I can look at a card my opponent has accidentally shown me?

While there is no strict time limit given in the rule itself, taking excessive time to examine something inadvertently revealed would be seen as actively attempting to gain information and therefore break the rule. You should avoid lingering on any accidential reveal.

13. What about face-down cards in the exile zone?

Those are considered hidden information. You are not allowed to peek at them. Certain cards like “Light Up the Stage” allow you to look at exiled cards, but even then your opponent does not see the cards you are able to see.

14. If a player accidentally drops their hand on the table, is that a violation?

It depends. If you deliberately attempted to view it it would be a violation. If it was simply an accident, a player is not obligated to tell the opponent that he saw the cards or not, it depends on sportsmanship.

15. Does this rule apply to digital Magic, like MTG Arena?

The underlying principles still apply. The digital interface is designed to prevent deliberate peeking, but even then, you are allowed to use information that the game reveals to you. For example, if an opponent plays a spell and it requires a target, you know they had the mana to play it.

Conclusion

Rule 3.13 is a key piece of the structure of competitive Magic, ensuring fairness while embracing the strategic depth of the game. It creates a balance between protecting your hidden information and not having to actively point out an opponent’s mistakes. By understanding this rule and its nuances, players can engage in MTG with a sense of integrity and sportsmanship, whether at the highest levels of competition or in a casual game among friends. It’s all about respecting the game, your opponents, and your own strategic choices.