Does a Copy Become a Token? Unraveling the Mysteries of Copies and Tokens
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In the captivating world of trading card games like Magic: The Gathering, understanding the nuances of copies and tokens is crucial for strategic gameplay. The relationship between these two game elements can be complex, leading to many questions among players. So, the core question: Does a copy become a token?
The answer is nuanced and depends on the method of copying. A spell that creates a permanent token can do so as a copy. However, simply creating a copy of a permanent doesn’t automatically make it a token. Some spells and abilities explicitly create token copies, while others create non-token copies. It all depends on the specific wording of the card or ability in question.
Delving Deeper: Copies vs. Tokens
To fully grasp this concept, let’s dissect what we mean by copies and tokens.
A copy in a trading card game essentially duplicates another card or permanent. It inherits most of the original’s characteristics – mana cost, color, abilities, type, and so on. The key takeaway here is that a copy can exist as either a card on the stack (a spell copy) or a permanent on the battlefield.
A token, on the other hand, is a special representation of a permanent that isn’t a card itself. Tokens are created by spells or abilities, and they enter the battlefield directly. They often represent creatures, but can also be artifacts, enchantments, or even lands. Tokens cease to exist when they leave the battlefield, unless an effect says otherwise.
Distinguishing Factors
The essential difference lies in their origins and permanence (or lack thereof):
- Origin: Copies are derived from existing cards or permanents. Tokens are created by spells or abilities.
- Existence after Leaving Battlefield: Copies that are cards go to the graveyard, hand, or exile as normal. Tokens cease to exist when they leave the battlefield, unless an effect says otherwise.
How Copying Mechanisms Work
Copying effects can be found on various cards and abilities. Some spells and abilities create token copies, explicitly stating that the copy is a token. These tokens inherit the characteristics of the original permanent they are copying. Other effects create non-token copies, which are still permanents on the battlefield but retain all the properties of a card (e.g. they can go to the graveyard, hand, or exile).
Understanding the specific wording of the card or ability is essential. If it says “create a token that’s a copy,” you know you’re dealing with a token. If it simply says “create a copy,” you’re dealing with a non-token copy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Copies and Tokens
To further clarify the intricacies of copies and tokens, let’s dive into some frequently asked questions:
1. Does a copy count as a token if it is not specifically created as a token?
No. Unless the effect creating the copy specifically states that the copy is a token, it’s simply a non-token copy of the original permanent. It behaves like a regular card on the battlefield.
2. Can a copy copy tokens?
Yes, a copy effect can target a token as its source. If the effect creates a token copy, the result will be a token that’s a copy of the original token. If it creates a non-token copy, the result will be a non-token copy of the original token.
3. Does copying count as casting?
No. Copying a spell or permanent does not count as casting it. Casting refers specifically to playing a card from a zone like your hand or exile by paying its mana cost (or an alternative cost). Copies are put directly onto the stack or the battlefield by another effect.
4. Do copies have a mana value?
Yes, copies usually inherit the mana cost of the original spell or permanent they are copying. This means they have a mana value based on that cost. However, there are exceptions, such as tokens created by certain abilities that explicitly state they have no mana cost.
5. How does token copy work, and what triggers does it activate?
A token copy enters the battlefield with all the copiable characteristics of the original permanent. It will trigger any enter-the-battlefield triggers. It will also trigger dies triggers and leaves the battlefield triggers when it is destroyed, even though it ceases to exist after leaving the battlefield.
6. Do copies get CMC (Converted Mana Cost)?
Yes, copies inherit the mana cost of the original, so they also inherit its Converted Mana Cost (CMC), which is the total amount of mana symbols in its mana cost. This is important for effects that reference CMC.
7. Do copy tokens count towards devotion?
Yes, if the token copy has a mana cost (because it copies something with a mana cost), it contributes to your devotion to that color. If the token has no mana cost, it won’t contribute to devotion.
8. Can a token return to hand? What happens then?
While it’s technically possible for an effect to try and return a token to your hand, tokens can only exist on the battlefield. The game will attempt to return a token to your hand, it ceases to exist when it leaves the battlefield. It will not trigger the scavenger or technician bonuses.
9. What is considered a token?
In the context of trading card games, a token is a permanent that is created by a spell or ability, but isn’t a card. Tokens represent creatures, artifacts, enchantments, or other permanent types. They are often represented by physical tokens or placeholders.
10. If I copy a creature with counters, does the copy also have those counters?
It depends. Most copying effects will copy the copiable values of the original creature, which typically doesn’t include counters. However, some effects specifically state that the copy enters the battlefield with the same number of counters as the original. Always read the card carefully!
11. What are copiable values, and what are not?
Copiable values are the characteristics of a permanent that are typically copied when a new object enters the battlefield as a copy of that permanent. This includes:
- Name
- Mana Cost
- Color
- Type
- Abilities
- Power/Toughness
Things that are not copiable include:
- Counters
- Damage
- “Tapped” or “Untapped” status
- Attached Auras or Equipment
- Effects that have modified the permanent unless those effects are part of its inherent abilities.
12. If I copy a double-faced card, which side does the copy enter as?
The copy enters the battlefield as the side of the double-faced card that was face up when the copy effect was activated.
13. What happens if I try to copy a permanent that is also copying something else?
The copy will copy the original permanent’s copiable values, not what that permanent is currently copying. In other words, copying is not recursive.
14. Can I copy a legendary permanent if I already control a permanent with the same name?
Yes, you can. The legendary rule is checked as a state-based action, meaning it only applies after the copy enters the battlefield. If you control two legendary permanents with the same name, you will have to choose one to keep and the other will be put into its owner’s graveyard (or cease to exist, if it’s a token).
15. How does copying interact with effects that change a permanent’s characteristics?
When you copy a permanent, the copy will have the copiable values as they are printed on the card, modified by any other copy effects. For example, if you use a spell to turn a creature into a 4/4, and then copy that creature, the copy will also be a 4/4.
The Importance of Clarity
Ultimately, the key to understanding whether a copy becomes a token lies in carefully reading the card text. These games rely on precise language, and the distinction between “copy” and “token copy” is crucial. When in doubt, consult the official game rules or a judge for clarification. Understanding these intricate rules is the first step to becoming a stronger player. By embracing these rules, you can truly appreciate the fun and challenges of these dynamic games.
If you are interested in delving deeper into the educational aspects of trading card games and other games, be sure to visit the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org. The Games Learning Society focuses on research and resources that explore how games can be used as powerful tools for learning and engagement. By understanding the complex systems and strategic thinking involved in games, we can apply these principles to education and other areas of life.