Can You Copy a Permanent Spell? The Ultimate Guide
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Yes, you absolutely can copy a permanent spell in games like Magic: The Gathering (MTG) and even in tabletop role-playing games like Dungeons & Dragons (D&D), though the mechanics and implications differ significantly. In MTG, copying permanent spells typically involves creating a token copy of the spell as it resolves. In D&D, copying a spell means transcribing it into your spellbook for later use. Let’s delve deeper!
Understanding Permanent Spells and Copying Mechanics
In MTG, a permanent spell is a spell that, upon resolution, results in a permanent on the battlefield (e.g., creatures, artifacts, enchantments, and planeswalkers). Copying a permanent spell is different from copying an instant or sorcery. Copying a permanent spell usually involves creating a token that is a copy of the permanent as it would enter the battlefield. A common way to do this is through spells with the text “create a token that’s a copy of [a permanent]”.
In D&D, the term “copying a spell” generally refers to a wizard transcribing a spell from a scroll or another spellbook into their own spellbook. This allows them to prepare and cast that spell later. The rules for copying a spell are straightforward.
MTG: Copying Permanent Spells Explained
How It Works
When you copy a permanent spell, you create a token that is a copy of the spell. This token enters the battlefield under your control as the spell resolves. The original spell still resolves as normal, unless it’s countered.
Example Scenario
Let’s say your opponent casts a powerful creature spell, like “Griselbrand.” You respond with a spell that reads, “Copy target creature spell. You may choose new targets for the copy.” The copy resolves first, creating a Griselbrand token under your control. Then, the original Griselbrand resolves, placing another Griselbrand under your opponent’s control.
Key Considerations
- Tokens vs. Non-Tokens: The copy is usually a token.
- Timing: Copying occurs on the stack before the original spell resolves.
- Countering: Copy spells can be countered, just like any other spell on the stack.
D&D: Copying Spells for Wizards
Spellbooks and Transcription
Wizards in D&D maintain spellbooks containing the spells they know and can prepare. To copy a spell, a wizard typically needs to find a scroll containing the desired spell or have access to another wizard’s spellbook.
The Process
The wizard must spend time and resources to decipher and transcribe the spell into their own spellbook. This involves understanding the unique notation and recreating the spell’s basic form. The time and cost associated with copying depend on the spell’s level.
Limitations
Wizards can only copy spells that are on the wizard spell list and are of a level they can cast. They can’t simply copy any spell they find.
FAQs: Deep Diving into Copying Permanent Spells
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify the mechanics and nuances of copying permanent spells across different gaming contexts:
1. Does copying a permanent spell create a token in MTG?
Yes, in MTG, when you copy a permanent spell, the copy typically resolves as a token copy of that spell. This token enters the battlefield as a permanent under your control.
2. Can you copy a spell twice in MTG?
Absolutely! As long as the original spell or a copy of it is on the stack, you can copy it multiple times, provided you have the means to do so (e.g., multiple copy spells).
3. Is copying a spell considered “playing” it?
No. In MTG, copying a spell is distinct from “playing” or casting it. Copying doesn’t trigger effects that trigger when you cast a spell.
4. Does copying a spell count as casting it in MTG?
No, copies of spells are not cast. They don’t trigger effects associated with casting, such as cascade or effects that increase in power when you cast a spell.
5. Can you copy a spell without paying its mana cost?
Yes. When you copy a spell, you don’t pay its mana cost again. The copy is created directly on the stack.
6. How does copying spells work in D&D 5e?
In D&D, copying a spell involves transcribing it into your spellbook from a scroll or another spellbook. You must understand the spell’s notation, practice it, and then record it using your own notation. This costs time and gold.
7. What counts as casting a spell in D&D?
Casting a spell in D&D means expending a spell slot (or using an ability that allows spellcasting) and performing the necessary components (verbal, somatic, material) to produce the spell’s effect.
8. Can wizards copy any spell in D&D 5e?
No. Wizards can only copy spells from the wizard spell list that are of a level they can cast. They can’t copy cleric spells, for example, unless they have a specific ability that allows them to do so.
9. Does copying a spell trigger storm in MTG?
No, copying a spell does not trigger the storm mechanic. Storm specifically triggers when a spell is cast.
10. Does copying a spell trigger cascade?
No. The cascade ability only triggers when you cast a spell with cascade, not when you copy one.
11. Are copies of spells always tokens?
In MTG, copies of permanent spells usually manifest as tokens. Copies of instant and sorcery spells are simply copies on the stack, not tokens.
12. Do copies of spells have a converted mana cost (CMC)?
Yes. Mana cost is a copiable value. If a permanent spell has a specific mana cost, the copy will have that same cost.
13. Can you copy cantrips in D&D 5e?
A wizard can only copy a cantrip from a scroll into a spellbook if the DM allows it. Usually you learn a certain number of cantrips and are unable to add more after character creation.
14. Can wizards cast two spells in one turn in D&D 5e?
Generally, you can’t cast two spells on the same turn, unless one of them is a cantrip with a casting time of one action, or you are using a feature like Action Surge. If you cast a spell as a bonus action (like Healing Word), the only other spell you can cast that turn is a cantrip with a casting time of one action.
15. How much does it cost to copy a spell into a spellbook in D&D 5e?
The cost to copy a spell into your spellbook in D&D is 50 gold pieces (gp) per spell level, and it takes 2 hours per spell level to complete the transcription process. This represents the cost of materials and the time spent mastering the spell.
Conclusion
Whether you’re creating token copies of powerful permanents in MTG or carefully transcribing arcane knowledge into your spellbook in D&D, understanding the intricacies of copying spells is crucial for strategic gameplay. Mastering these mechanics can significantly enhance your abilities and effectiveness in both games. Consider exploring more about game rules, mechanics, and the power of strategic play through resources such as the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org, which promotes deeper understanding and engagement through games.