Do board wipes count as targeting a creature?

Do Board Wipes Count as Targeting a Creature?

In the world of Magic: The Gathering, board wipes are a popular strategy for clearing the board of opposing creatures. But have you ever wondered if a board wipe counts as targeting a creature? In this article, we’ll delve into the rules of Magic and explore the answer to this question.

Direct Answer

No, board wipes do not count as targeting a creature.

But why is this the case? Let’s dive deeper into the rules of Magic to understand the reasoning behind this answer.

What is Targeting?

In Magic, targeting refers to the act of choosing a specific object, such as a creature, spell, or ability, to affect with a spell or ability. Targeting is a crucial concept in Magic, as it determines which objects are affected by a particular spell or ability.

What is a Board Wipe?

A board wipe is a type of spell or ability that destroys all creatures on the battlefield. Board wipes are often used to clear the board of opposing creatures and gain a strategic advantage.

Do Board Wipes Target Creatures?

At first glance, it may seem like board wipes target creatures. After all, they destroy all creatures on the battlefield. However, the key to understanding whether a board wipe targets a creature lies in the definition of targeting.

The Definition of Targeting

According to the Magic Comprehensive Rules, targeting is defined as "choosing a specific object, such as a creature, spell, or ability, to affect with a spell or ability." This definition emphasizes the importance of choosing a specific object, rather than simply affecting all objects of a certain type.

Board Wipes vs. Targeting

When a board wipe is cast, it does not choose a specific creature to destroy. Instead, it affects all creatures on the battlefield indiscriminately. This is not targeting, as the board wipe is not choosing a specific object to affect.

Examples

• Example 1: You cast a board wipe that destroys all creatures on the battlefield. In this case, the board wipe is not targeting any specific creature, as it is affecting all creatures equally.
• Example 2: You cast a spell that targets a specific creature, saying "Destroy this creature." In this case, the spell is targeting the specific creature, as it is choosing that creature to affect.

Conclusion

In conclusion, board wipes do not count as targeting a creature. While they may destroy all creatures on the battlefield, they do not choose a specific creature to affect. Instead, they affect all creatures indiscriminately, which is not targeting according to the definition of targeting in Magic.

Additional Tips and Strategies

• Use Board Wipes Wisely: Board wipes can be powerful tools in the right situations, but they can also be easily countered by opponents. Use them wisely and consider the potential risks and rewards.
• Protect Your Creatures: If you have creatures on the battlefield, consider using abilities or spells to protect them from board wipes. This can help you maintain a strong board presence and gain an advantage over your opponents.
• Use Targeting Spells: If you want to target specific creatures, consider using spells that target individual creatures. This can be a powerful way to gain an advantage over your opponents and destroy key creatures.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: Can I use a board wipe to destroy a creature with protection?
• A: Yes, you can use a board wipe to destroy a creature with protection. Board wipes do not target specific creatures, so they can affect creatures with protection.
• Q: Can I use a targeting spell to destroy a creature with protection?
• A: No, you cannot use a targeting spell to destroy a creature with protection. Targeting spells choose a specific creature to affect, and protection prevents creatures from being targeted.

Conclusion

In conclusion, board wipes do not count as targeting a creature. While they may be powerful tools in the right situations, they do not choose a specific creature to affect. By understanding the rules of Magic and using board wipes wisely, you can gain an advantage over your opponents and dominate the game.