Hexproof vs. Deathtouch: A Magic: The Gathering Showdown
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The world of Magic: The Gathering (MTG) is filled with intricate mechanics and keyword abilities that often lead to complex interactions. Two such abilities that frequently spark debate are Hexproof and Deathtouch. Let’s delve into the heart of the matter and definitively answer the burning question:
No, Hexproof does not protect against Deathtouch.
Deathtouch doesn’t target, it’s an effect that changes how damage is considered. Hexproof, on the other hand, protects a permanent or player from being the target of spells or abilities an opponent controls. Since Deathtouch doesn’t target, Hexproof offers no defense against it. If a creature with Deathtouch deals even 1 point of damage to a creature, the creature with Hexproof will still be destroyed.
Understanding Hexproof
Hexproof is an evergreen keyword ability in MTG. This means it’s a common mechanic that appears across numerous sets. It essentially provides a shield against spells and abilities controlled by opponents that specifically target the permanent or player with Hexproof. The key word here is “target.” If a spell or ability doesn’t use the word “target”, or doesn’t otherwise single out a specific permanent or player, Hexproof offers no protection.
Imagine a creature with Hexproof standing behind a magical barrier. Opponents can’t directly aim their spells or abilities at it. However, if a general effect, like a board wipe, affects all creatures, the Hexproof creature is still vulnerable.
The Lethal Nature of Deathtouch
Deathtouch, another evergreen keyword ability, is a deceptively simple yet incredibly potent mechanic. It fundamentally alters how damage is treated. When a source with Deathtouch deals damage to a creature, that damage is considered lethal, regardless of the amount. Therefore, even 1 point of damage from a creature with Deathtouch is enough to destroy another creature.
Think of it like a poisoned dagger. Even a small scratch is enough to be fatal. This bypasses a creature’s toughness as well; a 1/1 creature with Deathtouch can destroy a 10/10 creature. The only way Deathtouch can be stopped is by preventing the damage in the first place, or by having another keyword ability such as Indestructible or a shield counter.
Why Hexproof Fails Against Deathtouch
The reason Hexproof provides no protection against Deathtouch boils down to the fact that Deathtouch doesn’t target. Hexproof specifically guards against spells and abilities that target. When a creature with Deathtouch deals damage, it’s simply applying its effect to any creature it damages. It’s not singling out the Hexproof creature with a targeted ability. The lethal damage is a consequence of the combat, not a direct, targeted spell or ability.
Here’s an example: A 2/2 creature with Deathtouch attacks a 3/3 creature with Hexproof. The 3/3 blocks. The 2/2 deals 2 damage to the 3/3. Because the 2/2 has Deathtouch, that 2 damage is considered lethal, and the 3/3 is destroyed. Hexproof didn’t prevent this because the damage wasn’t applied as the result of a targeted effect.
FAQs: Deeper Dive into Hexproof and Deathtouch
Here are some Frequently Asked Questions to further clarify the intricacies of Hexproof and Deathtouch in Magic: The Gathering:
What happens if a creature with Hexproof blocks a creature with Deathtouch?
The creature with Hexproof will still be destroyed if the creature with Deathtouch deals damage to it. Hexproof only protects against targeted spells and abilities, and blocking doesn’t involve targeting.
Does Hexproof protect against board wipes?
No. Board wipes, such as Wrath of God (“Destroy all creatures”), don’t target specific creatures. They affect all creatures on the battlefield, so Hexproof provides no protection.
Can I sacrifice a Hexproof creature?
Yes. If an opponent’s spell or ability forces you to sacrifice a creature (e.g., “Target opponent sacrifices a creature”), you can sacrifice a creature with Hexproof. This is because the opponent is targeting you, the player, not the creature. You then choose which creature to sacrifice.
Does Hexproof prevent my opponent from countering my creature spell?
No. Hexproof only applies to permanents on the battlefield. While your creature spell is on the stack, it does not have Hexproof (unless the spell itself grants it). Your opponent can counter your creature spell as normal.
Does Indestructible beat Deathtouch?
Yes, a creature with Indestructible is immune to being destroyed by Deathtouch. While Deathtouch makes damage lethal, Indestructible prevents creatures from being destroyed by damage.
Does first strike affect Deathtouch?
Yes, First Strike can be effective against Deathtouch. If a creature with First Strike deals lethal damage to the creature with Deathtouch during the first combat damage step, the creature with Deathtouch will be destroyed before it can deal damage.
Do shield counters protect against Deathtouch?
Yes. Shield counters prevent damage, therefore a shield counter will prevent the damage dealt by a creature with Deathtouch. This means the damage is prevented and no creature is destroyed as no damage was dealt.
Does trample work with Deathtouch?
Yes, Trample works effectively with Deathtouch. If an attacking creature has both abilities, it only needs to assign one damage to each blocking creature with the remainder of its damage assigning to the defending player if it has more power than the blockers toughness. All blocking creatures will be destroyed due to Deathtouch.
How does double strike interact with Deathtouch?
If a creature has both Double Strike and Deathtouch, it deals damage twice. If the first strike damage is enough to destroy a blocking creature, the second strike damage is dealt to the player or planeswalker the creature is attacking (assuming it also has Trample).
Why would a tapped creature need Deathtouch?
Giving a tapped creature Deathtouch can be strategically useful in certain situations, particularly if the tapped creature is forced to block. If you have a spell or ability that grants Deathtouch to all your creatures, even those tapped, it can deter opponents from attacking into them.
Does Hexproof protect against effects that give -X/-X to creatures?
It depends. If the -X/-X effect targets a specific creature, then Hexproof will prevent it from being affected. However, if the effect is a general one that reduces the power and toughness of all creatures, regardless of targeting, then Hexproof won’t offer any protection.
Can you exile indestructible?
Yes. Indestructible only prevents destruction. It does not prevent a creature from being exiled. This is a common way to remove indestructible creatures.
How do I get rid of a creature with both Hexproof and Indestructible?
Creatures with both Hexproof and Indestructible are very difficult to remove. Options include:
- Sacrifice effects: Forcing the controller of the creature to sacrifice it.
- Exile effects: Exiling the creature.
- -X/-X effects: Reducing the creature’s toughness to zero (if the effect is non-targeting).
Does Deathtouch count in fight?
Yes, Deathtouch applies in fight scenarios. The “fight” mechanic involves creatures dealing damage to each other equal to their power. If a creature with Deathtouch fights another creature, any damage dealt by the Deathtouch creature will be lethal.
Do board wipes affect indestructible?
It depends on the type of board wipe. If the board wipe destroys all creatures, Indestructible will negate this. However, if the board wipe exiles all creatures, Indestructible will not protect them.
Mastering the Interactions
Understanding the interplay between abilities like Hexproof and Deathtouch is crucial for mastering Magic: The Gathering. Knowing when and how these abilities work together, or against each other, can be the difference between victory and defeat. While Hexproof provides protection against targeted spells and abilities, it’s powerless against the lethal touch of a Deathtouch creature.
As you continue your Magic: The Gathering journey, remember that continuous learning and a deep understanding of the rules are key to success. Consider exploring resources like the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org for further insights into the strategies and mechanics of gaming.