Can Lava Spike Target Planeswalkers? A Comprehensive Guide
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The short answer is no, Lava Spike cannot directly target a planeswalker. Lava Spike states that it “deals 3 damage to target player or planeswalker.”
However, the nuances of planeswalker targeting in Magic: The Gathering can be tricky, especially for newer players. This article dives deep into the rules surrounding targeting planeswalkers, explores related card interactions, and answers frequently asked questions to clarify this often-misunderstood aspect of the game.
Understanding Planeswalker Targeting Rules
The key to understanding why Lava Spike can’t directly target a planeswalker lies in the specific wording of the card and the evolution of Magic’s rules regarding planeswalker interaction. Early in Magic’s history, damage spells couldn’t target planeswalkers at all. This changed with the introduction of the “planeswalker redirection rule,” which allowed players to redirect damage from a spell targeting a player to a planeswalker controlled by that player.
However, this rule doesn’t change the initial target. Lava Spike specifies “target player.” You must choose a player as the target when casting the spell. Then, upon resolution of the spell, you have the option to redirect the damage to a planeswalker controlled by that player. It’s crucial to remember this distinction: Lava Spike targets the player, not the planeswalker.
Why This Matters
This distinction matters because it affects card interactions. For instance, if your opponent has a protection from red ability, Lava Spike could target them, but the damage could not be redirected since damage from red sources they control would be prevented. Alternatively, if your opponent had shroud, or hexproof, then they could not be targeted.
Planeswalkers and the Stack
Understanding how spells resolve on the stack is essential. When you cast Lava Spike, it goes on the stack. As it resolves, you make the decision whether to redirect the damage. This happens before the damage is actually dealt. Therefore, your opponent cannot respond to your redirection decision with a spell or ability, as they would need to respond while the spell is on the stack. They could respond to Lava Spike while it is on the stack with a counterspell, or effect that increases the cost.
FAQs: Planeswalkers and Targeting
Here are 15 frequently asked questions that delve deeper into targeting planeswalkers and related interactions:
1. Can Lightning Bolt target planeswalkers?
Yes, Lightning Bolt can target planeswalkers. It reads, “Lightning Bolt deals 3 damage to any target.” “Any target” can be a player, a planeswalker, or a creature.
2. Can you target planeswalkers with burn spells?
It depends on the burn spell. If the burn spell specifies “target player,” then you target the player and may redirect the damage to a planeswalker they control upon resolution. If the burn spell specifies “any target”, then a planeswalker may be chosen.
3. Does Deathtouch work on planeswalkers?
No, Deathtouch does not inherently work on planeswalkers. Deathtouch states it causes 1 point of damage to destroy any creature, it does not interact with planeswalkers directly.
4. What is the planeswalker uniqueness rule?
The “planeswalker uniqueness rule” was similar to the “legend rule.” If a player controlled two or more planeswalkers with the same planeswalker type (e.g., two Jaces), they had to choose one, and the others were sent to the graveyard. This rule was later changed. Now, if you control two planeswalkers with the same name, one must be sacrificed.
5. Can Walking Ballista target planeswalkers?
Yes, Walking Ballista can target planeswalkers. Its ability states it deals 1 damage to “any target (creature, player, planeswalker or battle).”
6. Can you Terror a planeswalker?
No. Terror only targets a “nonblack creature.” Planeswalkers are not creatures and therefore cannot be targeted by Terror.
7. Can Shock hit planeswalkers?
Similar to Lava Spike, if Shock says “deals 2 damage to target creature or player,” you must target the player.
8. Can Vial Smasher target planeswalkers?
Yes, Vial Smasher the Fierce can target planeswalkers. It deals damage equal to that spell’s mana value to that player or a planeswalker that player controls.
9. Can Lightning Helix hit planeswalkers?
If Lightning Helix reads “target creature or player”, you target the player and can redirect. If it reads “any target”, it can target a planeswalker.
10. Does Rolling Earthquake hit planeswalkers?
Rolling Earthquake generally cannot hit planeswalkers directly. It deals damage to “each player and each creature without flying.” You cannot transfer the damage from Rolling Earthquake to a Planeswalker.
11. Can Boros Charm hit planeswalkers?
It depends on the mode chosen for Boros Charm. If it’s the mode that states “deals 4 damage to target player or planeswalker,” then yes, it can directly target a planeswalker.
12. Can a planeswalker have 0 loyalty?
A planeswalker can reach 0 loyalty, but it immediately goes to the graveyard as a state-based action. It’s removed from the battlefield instantly.
13. What is an indestructible planeswalker with 0 loyalty?
Even if a planeswalker is indestructible, it will still be put into the graveyard when it reaches 0 loyalty due to state-based actions. Indestructibility only prevents destruction from damage or effects that specifically say “destroy.”
14. Can you flicker planeswalkers?
Yes, planeswalkers can be “flickered” (exiled and then returned to the battlefield). However, many blink effects specify “target creature,” so you need a blink effect that targets permanents to flicker them.
15. Can Searing Blaze target a planeswalker?
If Searing Blaze says it deals “1 damage to target player or planeswalker,” then yes, it can directly target a planeswalker.
Strategic Considerations
Understanding the nuances of planeswalker targeting is crucial for making informed decisions during gameplay. Knowing when to target a player and redirect damage, or when to use a spell that can directly target a planeswalker, can be the difference between victory and defeat. Also, recognizing that some spells cannot target planeswalkers at all can help you avoid misplays and wasted resources.
The Evolution of Planeswalker Interaction
The rules governing planeswalker interaction have evolved significantly over time, reflecting Wizards of the Coast’s ongoing efforts to balance gameplay and create a dynamic and engaging experience. As new sets are released and the game continues to evolve, it’s important to stay updated on the latest rules and rulings regarding planeswalkers. This article offers a solid foundation, but always refer to the official Magic: The Gathering rulebook for the most up-to-date information.
Deepening Your Understanding of Magic
Magic: The Gathering is a complex game that rewards strategic thinking and a thorough understanding of the rules. Resources like the Games Learning Society offer valuable insights into the cognitive and educational aspects of gaming. By exploring the intersection of games and learning, you can gain a deeper appreciation for the intricacies of Magic: The Gathering and its ability to foster critical thinking skills. Visit the GamesLearningSociety.org website to learn more.
Understanding the strategic and educational implications of games like Magic: The Gathering can transform your approach to gameplay and enhance your overall enjoyment of the game.