Does a Card Go to the Graveyard Before it Resolves?
In the world of Magic: The Gathering, understanding the timing of card effects is crucial to playing the game effectively. One common question that arises is whether a card goes to the graveyard before it resolves. In this article, we’ll delve into the answer and explore the nuances of card timing in Magic.
Direct Answer
A card does not go to the graveyard before it resolves. According to the official Magic: The Gathering rules, a card is only considered to be in the graveyard after it has resolved. This means that if a card is destroyed, discarded, or sent to the graveyard as a result of a spell or ability, it will not be in the graveyard until after the spell or ability has resolved.
When a Card is Considered to be in the Graveyard
A card is considered to be in the graveyard when it is sent there as a result of a spell or ability. This can happen in several ways, including:
- Destroying a card: When a card is destroyed, it is sent to the graveyard immediately.
- Discarding a card: When a card is discarded, it is sent to the graveyard immediately.
- Sending a card to the graveyard: When a card is sent to the graveyard as a result of a spell or ability, it is considered to be in the graveyard.
When a Card is Not Considered to be in the Graveyard
A card is not considered to be in the graveyard until it has been sent there as a result of a spell or ability. This means that if a card is in the hand, on the battlefield, or in the library, it is not considered to be in the graveyard.
Examples of Cards that Do Not Go to the Graveyard Before Resolving
Here are some examples of cards that do not go to the graveyard before resolving:
- Instant and Sorcery Spells: Instant and sorcery spells do not go to the graveyard before resolving. They are considered to be in the graveyard only after they have resolved.
- Creatures: Creatures do not go to the graveyard before resolving. They are considered to be in the graveyard only after they have been destroyed or sacrificed.
- Planewalkers: Planewalkers do not go to the graveyard before resolving. They are considered to be in the graveyard only after they have been destroyed or sacrificed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a card does not go to the graveyard before it resolves. Understanding the timing of card effects is crucial to playing Magic: The Gathering effectively, and this article has provided a comprehensive overview of when a card is considered to be in the graveyard. By following the rules and examples outlined in this article, you can improve your gameplay and make more informed decisions at the table.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What happens to a card when it is destroyed?
A: When a card is destroyed, it is sent to the graveyard immediately.
Q: What happens to a card when it is discarded?
A: When a card is discarded, it is sent to the graveyard immediately.
Q: Can a card be in the graveyard before it resolves?
A: No, a card is not considered to be in the graveyard until it has been sent there as a result of a spell or ability.
Table: Timing of Card Effects
| Card Type | Timing of Card Effects |
|---|---|
| Instant and Sorcery Spells | Resolves, then goes to the graveyard |
| Creatures | Resolves, then goes to the graveyard |
| Planewalkers | Resolves, then goes to the graveyard |
| Other Cards | Resolves, then goes to the graveyard |
References
- Magic: The Gathering Official Rules
- Magic: The Gathering Comprehensive Rules
- Magic: The Gathering FAQ