Can a Creature with Shroud be Targeted in the Graveyard?
In Magic: The Gathering, shroud is a keyword ability that prevents a permanent or player from being targeted by spells or abilities. When a creature with shroud dies, it goes to the graveyard, but does this mean it can’t be targeted there either? Let’s dive into the rules and explore the answer.
Direct Answer:
No, a creature with shroud cannot be targeted in the graveyard.
Why?
The shroud ability only affects a permanent or player while it’s on the battlefield. Once a creature with shroud dies, it’s no longer on the battlefield, and therefore, the shroud ability no longer applies. However, the creature still goes to the graveyard, and in this zone, it’s no longer protected by shroud.
Evidence from the Rules:
- Rule 702.18, "Shroud": "Shroud is a static ability. ‘Shroud’ means ‘This permanent or player can’t be the target of spells or abilities.’"
- Rule 114.5, "Illegal Target": "A target that’s no longer in the zone it was in when it was targeted is illegal."
- Rule 728.1, "Illegal Action": "If a player takes an illegal action or starts to take an action but can’t legally complete it, the entire action is reversed and any payments already made are canceled."
Consequences:
If a spell or ability tries to target a creature with shroud in the graveyard, the targeting attempt is illegal and won’t resolve. Any payments made to cast or activate the spell or ability are canceled, and the game state is restored to its previous state.
Common Scenarios:
- Exiling Creatures with Shroud: Cards like Solemnity or Path to Exile can exile creatures with shroud, effectively removing them from the game. In this case, the shroud ability no longer applies.
- Reanimating Creatures with Shroud: Cards like Ancestral Recall or Lingering Souls can reanimate creatures, including those with shroud. However, the creature’s shroud ability only affects it while it’s on the battlefield, not in the graveyard.
Takeaways:
- Shroud only applies while a creature is on the battlefield.
- A creature with shroud cannot be targeted in the graveyard.
- Attempts to target creatures with shroud in the graveyard are illegal and won’t resolve.
In summary, a creature with shroud can’t be targeted in the graveyard because shroud only affects a permanent or player while it’s on the battlefield. Understanding the rules and consequences of shroud can help you make informed decisions during games and improve your overall strategy.