Do Keywords Count as Abilities?
In Magic: The Gathering, players often find themselves asking "What is an ability? Is it the same thing as a keyword?" After all, keywords like Flying, Haste, and Indestructible are used consistently throughout the game to convey specific effects or behaviors. But what exactly is the role of keywords in Magic’s rules?
What Counts as an Ability?
According to the official MTG rules, an ability is defined as "text and a characteristic on an object that is un-italicized, being neither flavor text nor reminder text."_ In other words, an ability is any in-game effect that is defined by the card’s name, rules text, power, toughness, or ability words.
Keywords: The Key to Understanding Abilities?
Now, let’s take a closer look at keywords. Keywords like Flying, Haste, and Indestructible are text on an object that determines its behavior. Whether it’s a creature or a planeswalker, their abilities are often defined or modified by these keywords.
Key Points to Take Away:
- Keywords are a type of ability text.
- Keywords define an object’s behavior.
- Keywords can modify abilities.
How to Identify Keywords
When scoping out a card for the first time, knowing how to identify keywords becomes crucial. Here’s how to do it:
| Search for | Keyword Structure |
|---|---|
| * | Keyword word followed by a colon (e.g., “Flying:”) |
| phrase | Keyword phrase used to describe an effect or behavior (e.g., “Indestructible:”, “Trample:”,) |
The Role of Reminders
When a rule or ability text uses both italicized and non-italicized text, don’t be confused! Italicized text is Reminder Text, while non-italicized text is often an ability or keyword phrase.
Key Reminders:
- Non-italicized text determines an object’s behavior.
- Italicized text is Reminder Text.
Conclusion
In conclusion, keywords do indeed count as abilities in Magic: The Gathering. They define specific behaviors, modify abilities, and play a crucial role in determining an object’s in-game effects. Recognizing keywords and their distinct structure will help you confidently navigate the complex world of MTG rules.
This article should give you the foundation you need to tackle more advanced topics in MTG, such as ability mana costs, ability triggers, and ability interactions. Mastering keywords and abilities takes time and practice, so keep honing your skills and exploring the vast magical world of Magic: The Gathering!