Does exile override indestructible?

Does Exile Override Indestructible?

In Magic: The Gathering, cards with indestructible cannot be destroyed by any means, making them virtually unstoppable. However, exile, a type of removal that sends a card to its owner’s exile zone, can seemingly bypass indestructible. But does exile truly override indestructible, or are there cases where indestructible prevails? In this article, we’ll delve into the intricacies of indestructible and exile, exploring the rules and scenarios that determine the outcome.

What is Indestructible?

Indestructible is a keyword ability that, when applied to a permanent, prevents it from being destroyed by any means. This includes effects that destroy, sacrifice, or deal lethal damage. Indestructible cards are essentially indestructible, making them a formidable force on the battlefield.

What is Exile?

Exile is a removal mechanic that sends a card to its owner’s exile zone, effectively removing it from the game. When a card is exiled, it is no longer on the battlefield, and its effects are no longer relevant. Exile can be caused by various effects, including spells, abilities, and other removal cards.

Does Exile Override Indestructible?

Initially, it may seem like exile overrides indestructible, as exile can send an indestructible permanent to its owner’s exile zone. However, there are specific scenarios where indestructible prevails.

Scenarios Where Exile Does Not Override Indestructible

• Sacrifice: Exile does not override indestructible when a permanent is sacrificed. For example, if an indestructible creature is sacrificed to a sacrifice effect, it will still be sent to its owner’s exile zone.
• Deathtouch: Exile does not override indestructible when a permanent with deathtouch deals lethal damage to an indestructible creature. The indestructible creature will still die and be sent to its owner’s exile zone.
• Shroud: Exile does not override indestructible when a permanent with shroud is targeted by an exile effect. The shrouded permanent will not be exiled, as shroud prevents it from being targeted.

Scenarios Where Exile Does Override Indestructible

• Direct Exile: Exile can override indestructible when a permanent is directly exiled by an effect. For example, if an indestructible creature is exiled by a spell that specifically exiles it, it will be sent to its owner’s exile zone.
• Exile from the Battlefield: Exile can override indestructible when a permanent is exiled from the battlefield by an effect. For example, if an indestructible creature is exiled from the battlefield by a spell that exiles it, it will be sent to its owner’s exile zone.

In-Game Implications

Understanding the interactions between exile and indestructible can have significant implications in game. When playing against opponents with indestructible permanents, it’s crucial to consider the scenarios outlined above. For example:

• Countering indestructible permanents: If an opponent has an indestructible permanent, you may need to consider countering it to prevent it from becoming a formidable force on the battlefield.
• Removing indestructible permanents: When removing an indestructible permanent, consider the scenario where it will be exiled, as this can prevent it from being reused or returning to the battlefield.
• Protecting your permanents: When protecting your own permanents, be aware of the scenarios where exile can override indestructible, and take measures to prevent your permanents from being exiled or destroyed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, exile can override indestructible in specific scenarios, but it’s not a guarantee. Understanding the intricacies of indestructible and exile can help you make informed decisions during gameplay, ensuring you stay one step ahead of your opponents. By considering the scenarios outlined above, you can develop a more nuanced approach to Magic: The Gathering, improving your chances of success.