Does Hexproof Stop?
Hexproof is a popular keyword ability in Magic: The Gathering that allows creatures to avoid being targeted by spells and abilities controlled by opponents. But what exactly does it mean for a creature to be "stopped" by Hexproof? In this article, we’ll delve into the intricacies of Hexproof and explore the various scenarios where it can and cannot stop certain effects.
Does Hexproof Stop Spells?
One of the most common questions about Hexproof is whether it can stop spells from targeting a creature. The answer is a resounding no. Hexproof only prevents opponents from targeting a creature with spells and abilities they control. If a spell or ability is not controlled by an opponent, Hexproof will not prevent it from targeting the creature.
For example, if a player casts a spell that targets a creature with Hexproof, the spell will still resolve and affect the creature, even if the opponent controlling the spell cannot target the creature. This is because the spell is not being targeted by the opponent, but rather by the player who cast it.
Does Hexproof Stop Abilities?
Similarly, Hexproof does not prevent abilities from targeting a creature. Abilities are not spells, and therefore are not subject to the same targeting restrictions as spells. This means that abilities can still target a creature with Hexproof, even if the opponent controlling the ability cannot target the creature.
For example, if an opponent has an ability that targets a creature with Hexproof, the ability will still resolve and affect the creature, even if the opponent cannot target the creature. This is because the ability is not being targeted by the opponent, but rather by the player who controls the ability.
Does Hexproof Stop Deathtouch?
Deathtouch is a keyword ability that causes any amount of damage from a source to be lethal damage. This means that if a creature with deathtouch deals damage to a creature, the damaged creature will be destroyed, regardless of its toughness.
Hexproof does not prevent deathtouch from dealing lethal damage to a creature. This is because deathtouch is not a targeting ability, and therefore is not subject to the same restrictions as targeting abilities. As a result, a creature with Hexproof can still be destroyed by a creature with deathtouch, even if the opponent controlling the deathtouch creature cannot target the creature.
Does Hexproof Stop Indestructible?
Indestructible is a keyword ability that prevents a permanent from being destroyed. Hexproof does not prevent indestructible from preventing a creature from being destroyed. This is because indestructible is a state-based effect that is applied to the permanent, rather than a targeting ability.
For example, if a creature with indestructible is targeted by a spell or ability that would destroy it, the indestructible ability will prevent the destruction, even if the opponent controlling the spell or ability cannot target the creature. This is because the indestructible ability is not being targeted by the opponent, but rather by the game state.
Does Hexproof Stop Sacrifice?
Sacrifice is a keyword ability that causes a player to sacrifice a permanent. Hexproof does not prevent sacrifice from targeting a creature. This is because sacrifice is not a targeting ability, and therefore is not subject to the same restrictions as targeting abilities.
For example, if a player has an ability that causes them to sacrifice a creature with Hexproof, the ability will still resolve and cause the creature to be sacrificed, even if the opponent controlling the ability cannot target the creature. This is because the ability is not being targeted by the opponent, but rather by the player who controls the ability.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hexproof is a powerful keyword ability that can prevent opponents from targeting a creature with spells and abilities they control. However, it does not prevent spells and abilities from targeting a creature, nor does it prevent indestructible and sacrifice from affecting a creature. By understanding the intricacies of Hexproof, players can make more informed decisions about when to use it and how to counter it.