Does Lifelink Only Work with Combat Damage?
Lifelink is a popular ability in Magic: The Gathering that allows a creature to deal damage to a player and gain life simultaneously. However, there is often confusion about whether lifelink only works with combat damage. In this article, we will explore the rules surrounding lifelink and answer the question: does lifelink only work with combat damage?
What is Lifelink?
Lifelink is a static ability that allows a creature to gain life equal to the amount of damage it deals. This means that if a creature with lifelink deals 3 damage to a player, it will also gain 3 life. Lifelink can be found on various creatures, including some popular ones like Fangskull Wurm and Vicious Grimorn.
Does Lifelink Only Work with Combat Damage?
The Answer is No!
Lifelink does not only work with combat damage. In fact, it can work with any type of damage dealt by a creature, including non-combat damage. Any amount of damage dealt by a creature with lifelink will result in the controller gaining that much life.
Examples of Non-Combat Damage
Here are some examples of non-combat damage that can trigger lifelink:
- Lightning Bolt: If you cast Lightning Bolt on an opponent, the 3 damage it deals will trigger lifelink on a creature with lifelink.
- Furious Charge: If a creature with furious charge attacks an opponent and deals 2 damage, the 2 damage will trigger lifelink.
- Explode: If a creature with explode is sacrificed, it will deal 2 damage to each opponent, triggering lifelink on a creature with lifelink.
Table: Examples of Non-Combat Damage
| Type of Damage | Creature with Lifelink |
|---|---|
| Lightning Bolt | Gain 3 life |
| Furious Charge | Gain 2 life |
| Explode | Gain 2 life |
Important Points to Note
- Lifelink only works with damage dealt by the creature itself. If a creature is dealt damage by another source, lifelink will not trigger.
- Lifelink does not prevent damage from being dealt. If a creature with lifelink is dealt damage, it will still lose the same amount of life.
- Lifelink can be triggered multiple times. If a creature with lifelink deals damage multiple times, it will gain life equal to the total amount of damage dealt.
Conclusion
In conclusion, lifelink does not only work with combat damage. It can work with any type of damage dealt by a creature, including non-combat damage. Understanding the rules surrounding lifelink can help you make informed decisions during gameplay and maximize the benefits of this powerful ability.