Do Copies of Creatures Count Towards Devotion?
In the world of Magic: The Gathering, devotion is a crucial aspect of gameplay, particularly when it comes to color identity and mana fixing. Many players often wonder whether copies of creatures count towards devotion. In this article, we’ll delve into the answer to this question and explore the intricacies of devotion and creature copies.
What is Devotion?
Before we dive into the main topic, let’s briefly discuss what devotion is. Devotion is a mechanic introduced in the Theros block, which measures a player’s allegiance to a specific color. A player’s devotion to a color is determined by the number of mana symbols of that color in the mana costs of permanents they control. For example, if a player controls two creatures with mana symbols of blue, their devotion to blue would be 2.
Do Copies of Creatures Count Towards Devotion?
The short answer is yes, copies of creatures do count towards devotion. However, there are some caveats to consider.
When Does a Copy Count?
A copy of a creature counts towards devotion only if the copy has the same mana cost as the original creature. This means that if you create a token of a creature using an ability or a spell, the token will not count towards devotion unless it has the same mana cost as the original creature.
Token Creatures
Token creatures are a special case when it comes to devotion. If you create a token creature using an ability or spell, and the token has the same mana cost as the original creature, it will count towards devotion. However, if the token has a different mana cost, it will not count towards devotion.
Split Mana Costs
When it comes to split mana costs, a copy of a creature with a split mana cost will only count towards devotion for the color(s) in the mana cost that the copy has. For example, if a creature has a mana cost of 2W, and you create a copy of it, the copy will only count towards devotion for W, not for 2.
Examples
Here are some examples to illustrate the concept:
| Creature | Mana Cost | Devotion Count |
|---|---|---|
| Elvish Mystic | G | 1 (counts towards devotion) |
| Elvish Mystic Token | G | 1 (counts towards devotion) |
| Simic Guildmage | 2GU | 1 (counts towards devotion for U) |
| Simic Guildmage Copy | U | 1 (counts towards devotion for U) |
Conclusion
In conclusion, copies of creatures do count towards devotion, but only if the copy has the same mana cost as the original creature. Additionally, token creatures and split mana costs can affect the way devotion is calculated. By understanding these nuances, players can better navigate the complex world of devotion and color identity in Magic: The Gathering.
Final Thoughts
Devotion is a crucial aspect of gameplay in Magic: The Gathering, and understanding how copies of creatures count towards devotion can be the key to success. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the game, this article has provided valuable insights into the intricacies of devotion and creature copies. So the next time you’re considering casting a creature, remember to keep an eye on that devotion count!