Does Hexproof include abilities?

Does Hexproof Include Abilities?

Hexproof is a powerful keyword ability in Magic: The Gathering that prevents creatures from being the target of spells and abilities played by opponents. But does this ability extend to triggered abilities, and what about indestructible creatures? In this article, we’ll delve into the intricacies of hexproof and answer these questions.

Hexproof: A Static Ability

Before we dive into the specifics, it’s essential to understand that hexproof is a static ability, meaning it’s always in effect unless otherwise specified. This is in contrast to triggered abilities, which only activate under specific circumstances. Hexproof on a permanent means "This permanent can’t be the target of spells or abilities your opponents control."

Targeting and Hexproof

When it comes to targeting, hexproof only cares about spells and abilities that specifically target a creature. If a spell or ability doesn’t target a creature, hexproof doesn’t apply. This is why hexproof doesn’t interfere with spells that don’t target a creature, such as cards that create tokens or generate mana.

Triggered Abilities and Hexproof

Now, what about triggered abilities? Triggered abilities that target a creature can still target a creature with hexproof, as long as the creature is an illegal target due to hexproof. In other words, the ability will trigger, but it won’t resolve because the creature is protected by hexproof.

Indestructible and Hexproof

Indestructible is an evergreen keyword ability that prevents a permanent from being destroyed. Indestructible creatures with hexproof are still protected from being destroyed, but they can still be exiled or sacrificed.

Proliferate and Hexproof

Proliferate is a mechanic that adds +1/+1 counters to permanents. Hexproof doesn’t protect against proliferate, as it doesn’t target a creature specifically. Instead, it simply adds counters to permanents.

Examples and Table

Here are some examples to illustrate these points:

In conclusion, hexproof is a powerful ability that protects creatures from being targeted by spells and abilities. It doesn’t apply to triggered abilities that don’t target a creature, and it doesn’t protect against indestructible or proliferate. Understanding these intricacies will help you make the most of hexproof in your Magic: The Gathering games.

References

• Official Magic: The Gathering website
• Magic: The Gathering Comprehensive Rules
• Various Magic: The Gathering forums and communities