Does Hexproof protect from counterspell?

The answer to this question is no, Hexproof does not protect against counterspells because Hexproof only prevents a creature from being targeted by spells or abilities controlled by an opponent, and a counterspell targets the spell itself, not the creature. This distinction is crucial, as Hexproof is often misunderstood to provide a broader range of protections than it actually does, and understanding its limitations is key to playing Magic: The Gathering effectively.

Understanding Hexproof and Counterspells

To delve deeper into the relationship between Hexproof and counterspells, as well as to address other common questions and misconceptions about Hexproof, let’s explore the following FAQs:

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What does Hexproof not protect against?

• Hexproof does not protect against effects that do not target the creature, such as sweepers and sacrifice effects. It also does not protect against interactions with the card in the graveyard or library.

1. Can I be countered if I have Hexproof?

• You have Hexproof, but your spells do not; therefore, they can be countered.

1. Does Hexproof prevent tapping?

• Hexproof prevents a creature from being targeted by an opponent, but it does not prevent tapping if the effect that causes the tap does not target.

1. What IS Hexproof?

• Hexproof is a keyword ability that means the creature cannot be the target of spells or abilities controlled by an opponent.

1. Does Deathtouch cancel Deathtouch?

• Any two instances of the Deathtouch ability against one another cancel out the Deathtouch ability.

1. Does Hexproof block Deathtouch?

• Hexproof does not prevent Deathtouch because Deathtouch does not target; it’s an ability that makes any amount of damage from the source lethal.

1. What destroys Hexproof?

• Non-targeting removal, such as board-wipe or a sacrifice effect, can bypass Hexproof creatures.

1. Is Hexproof immune to board wipes?

• Hexproof creatures are not immune to board wipes that do not target specifically; they can still be affected by such spells.

1. Does shroud protect from board wipes?

• Creatures with shroud are not protected from board wipes and other non-targeting effects.

1. Is Hexproof better than indestructible?

   • Both are powerful, but Hexproof falls prey to non-targeting spells, while indestructible falls prey to exiling, tucking, etc.

2. Is Hexproof immune to sacrifice?

   • No, Hexproof is not immune to sacrifice if the spell or ability causing the sacrifice targets the player, not the creature.

3. Is Hexproof immune to sorcery?

   • A creature with Hexproof cannot be targeted by spells or abilities controlled by an opponent, including sorceries.

4. How do you prevent counterspell?

   • You can counterspell a counterspell, or prevent it by being out of range or through effects that deny reactions.

5. Does Hexproof protect from Planeswalkers?

   • Planeswalker abilities cannot target objects with Hexproof that you do not control.

6. How do you counter indestructible and Hexproof?

   • Effects like Devour Flesh, or putting a bunch of -1/-1 counters on everything, can remove indestructible and Hexproof creatures, as can making them sacrifice their creatures.

By understanding Hexproof and its interactions with various Magic: The Gathering mechanics and effects, players can better navigate the complexities of the game and make informed strategic decisions. Whether you’re dealing with counterspells, board wipes, Deathtouch, or other elements, knowing how Hexproof works and what it protects against can significantly enhance your gameplay.