Can Shock Hit Planeswalkers?
Magic: The Gathering is a game that is full of complex rules and interactions between cards. One of the most powerful and versatile spell types is the instant speed spell, which can affect any permanent on the battlefield. Among the many permanents in the game are Planeswalkers, which are powerful, unique creatures that can be summoned to the battlefield. So, can Shock hit Planeswalkers?
Direct Answer
No, Shock cannot hit Planeswalkers. According to the Magic: The Gathering rules, Shock is an instant speed spell that must target a player, and then deals 2 damage to that player. This means that Shock cannot be used to deal damage directly to a Planeswalker.
Why Can’t Shock Hit Planeswalkers?
There are a few reasons why Shock cannot hit Planeswalkers. First, as mentioned earlier, Shock must target a player, and Planeswalkers are not players. They are permanents that are placed on the battlefield and have their own unique abilities and effects. Second, the text of Shock specifically states that it deals damage to a player, not to a permanent. This makes it clear that Shock is not intended to be used to deal damage to Planeswalkers.
Other Cards That Can’t Hit Planeswalkers
Shock is not the only card that cannot hit Planeswalkers. Many other cards, such as Lightning Bolt and Fireball, are also instant speed spells that deal damage to a player. These cards, like Shock, must target a player and deal damage to that player. This means that they also cannot be used to deal damage directly to a Planeswalker.
How to Deal Damage to Planeswalkers
If you want to deal damage to a Planeswalker, there are a few options available. One option is to use a card that deals damage to a permanent, such as Poisonous Snake or Carrion Feeder. These cards can deal damage to any permanent on the battlefield, including Planeswalkers. Another option is to use a card that can exile or destroy a permanent, such as Abrupt Decay or Thoughtseize. These cards can exile or destroy any permanent, including Planeswalkers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Shock cannot hit Planeswalkers. According to the Magic: The Gathering rules, Shock is an instant speed spell that must target a player and deal 2 damage to that player. This makes it clear that Shock is not intended to be used to deal damage to Planeswalkers. While there are other cards that can deal damage to Planeswalkers, Shock is not one of them.