Does Indestructible Survive Deathtouch?
In the world of Magic: The Gathering, two of the most powerful keywords are Indestructible and Deathtouch. While they may seem like opposing forces, they actually have a complex relationship. In this article, we’ll delve into the intricacies of Indestructible and Deathtouch, and answer the question: Does Indestructible survive Deathtouch?
What is Indestructible?
Indestructible is a keyword that allows a permanent to survive destruction. When a permanent with Indestructible is targeted by a spell or ability that would destroy it, it is not destroyed. Instead, it remains on the battlefield, untouched.
What is Deathtouch?
Deathtouch is a keyword that allows a creature to kill any creature it deals damage to. When a creature with Deathtouch deals damage to a creature, that creature is destroyed, regardless of its toughness.
Does Indestructible Survive Deathtouch?
In short, yes. Indestructible permanents can survive Deathtouch. Since Indestructible prevents destruction, a creature with Indestructible will not be destroyed by a Deathtouch ability. Instead, it will remain on the battlefield, unaffected.
But What About State-Based Actions?
While Indestructible prevents destruction, it does not prevent state-based actions. When a creature with Deathtouch deals damage to a creature, it will trigger a state-based action that destroys the creature. However, if the creature has Indestructible, it will not be destroyed. Instead, the state-based action will simply have no effect.
What About Creatures with Zero Toughness?
Creatures with zero toughness are destroyed as a state-based action. However, if a creature with zero toughness has Indestructible, it will not be destroyed. Instead, it will remain on the battlefield, unable to be destroyed.
What About Sacrifice Effects?
Sacrifice effects, such as those found on cards like Decayed, can sacrifice a creature at the end of combat. However, if a creature with Indestructible is sacrificed, it will not be destroyed. Instead, it will remain on the battlefield, unable to be destroyed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Indestructible permanents can survive Deathtouch. While Deathtouch may destroy creatures, Indestructible prevents destruction. This means that creatures with Indestructible will not be destroyed by Deathtouch, and will remain on the battlefield, unaffected.
Key Takeaways
- Indestructible permanents can survive Deathtouch.
- Indestructible prevents destruction, but does not prevent state-based actions.
- Creatures with zero toughness are destroyed as a state-based action, unless they have Indestructible.
- Sacrifice effects can sacrifice a creature with Indestructible, but it will not be destroyed.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Can Indestructible creatures be exiled?
A: No, Indestructible creatures cannot be exiled. They can only be sacrificed or removed from the game through other means. - Q: Can Deathtouch kill a creature with Indestructible?
A: No, Deathtouch cannot kill a creature with Indestructible. The creature will remain on the battlefield, unaffected. - Q: Can a creature with Indestructible be destroyed by a non-Deathtouch ability?
A: Yes, a creature with Indestructible can be destroyed by a non-Deathtouch ability. However, it will not be destroyed by Deathtouch.
References
- Magic: The Gathering Comprehensive Rules, 2022
- Magic: The Gathering FAQ, 2022
- Vintage Is The New Old, 2022