Can You Target the Same Creature Multiple Times?
In the world of Magic: The Gathering, targeting is a crucial aspect of casting spells and abilities. But, what happens when you want to target the same creature multiple times? Can you do it? The answer is no, according to the official Magic: The Gathering rules.
Why Can’t I Target the Same Creature Multiple Times?
The reason lies in the rules of targeting. "When a spell or ability uses the word ‘target’ in multiple places, the same target can’t be chosen more than once" (CR 601.2c). This means that if a spell or ability is targeting a creature, that same creature cannot be targeted again, no matter how many times the word "target" appears in the spell or ability text.
Example: Twin Spell and a Creature
Let’s say you cast a twin spell that targets a creature and says "Target X and Y". You can choose creature X as the first target, but you cannot choose the same creature again. You need to choose a different target for the second part of the spell.
What About Proliferate and Shield Counters?
Another important aspect of creatures is proliferate and shield counters. Proliferate is the ability to add +1 to a number when counting. Shield counters, on the other hand, can make a creature immune to certain spells. While these abilities may allow multiple applications, they are distinct from targeting and cannot affect the rule of not targeting the same creature multiple times.
Can I Use Proliferate to Get a Shield Counter?
Yes, you can! Proliferate allows you to add +1 to the count, so if a creature has 1 shield counter, you can proliferate and give it 2 shield counters. But you cannot target the same creature multiple times using these counters.
Can I Make Multiple Shield Counters on the Same Creature?
Yes, a creature can have multiple shield counters, whether from proliferate, Blade of Selves, or other means. While these counters can provide a boost, they do not affect the rules on targeting.
Conclusion
To sum it up, you cannot target the same creature multiple times. No matter how many times the word ‘target’ appears in a spell or ability, you can only choose a different target for each part of the spell. Proliferate and shield counters are separate and don’t affect the rules of targeting, making it possible to have multiple shields counters on a single creature.
In this article, we’ve covered the rules around targeting and the specific restrictions on targeting the same creature multiple times. Remember to carefully consider the text of your spells and abilities, taking into account the word "target" and its implications.
[Optional Table]
| Spells and Abilities | Number of Targets | Consecutive Targeting |
|---|---|---|
| Twin Spell | 2 targets | No, same creature can’t be targeted again |
| Shield Ability | 1 target | No, shield count doesn’t affect targeting rules |
| Proliferate Ability | Varies | No, proliferate counts +1, doesn’t affect targeting |
| Multiple Shield Counters | Varied | Yes, multiple shields allowed, but no consecutive targeting |
By applying the rules and understanding the complexities of targeting, you’ll become a stronger player in the world of Magic: The Gathering.