Does Phasing Out Remove Equipment?
In the world of Magic: The Gathering, phasing is a mechanic that allows permanents to phase out, rendering them non-existent until they automatically phase back in on their next untap step. This can be a crucial strategic decision, but one question that often arises is: does phasing out remove equipment?
In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of phasing and its effects on equipment, exploring the answer to this question and shedding light on the intricacies of Magic: The Gathering’s complex mechanics.
What is Phasing?
Before we dive into the specifics, it’s essential to understand what phasing is and how it works. Phasing is a mechanic that allows permanents to temporarily remove themselves from the game, rendering them non-existent until they automatically phase back in on their next untap step. This can be a strategic decision, as it can provide temporary protection from threats or allow for a powerful effect to resolve without opposition.
Does Phasing Out Remove Equipment?
So, does phasing out remove equipment? Yes, equipment does phase out when its permanent phases out. This means that any equipment attached to a phasing-out permanent will also phase out and lose all memory of its former state.
Types of Phasing
There are two primary types of phasing: Direct Phasing and Indirect Phasing.
- Direct Phasing: A permanent phases out directly when its phase-out ability is activated, removing it from the game until its next untap step.
- Indirect Phasing: A permanent phases out indirectly when it is removed from the game by an effect or spell, and then returns to the game on its next untap step.
Phasing Out and Equipment
When a permanent phases out, any equipment attached to it will also phase out and lose all memory of its former state. This means that the equipment will:
- Lose any damage or counters
- No longer be a creature
- No longer be under the control of a player
- No longer be a target of any spell or ability
Equipment Phasing Out and Phasing Back In
When a permanent with attached equipment phases out and then phases back in, the equipment will also return and retain its state before phasing out. This means that if the equipment was damaged before phasing out, it will still be damaged after phasing back in.
Example Scenarios
- A player controls a 3/3 Gruul Behemoth with a Sword attached. They decide to phase out the Behemoth using its ability. The Behemoth will phase out, and the Sword will also phase out and lose all memory of its former state.
- A player controls a 2/2 Knight with a Shield attached. Their opponent uses a spell to destroy the Knight, and the Knight phases out. The Shield will also phase out and lose all memory of its former state.
- A player controls a 5/5 Hydra with a Crown attached. They decide to phase out the Hydra using its ability. The Hydra will phase out, and the Crown will also phase out and lose all memory of its former state.
Conclusion
In conclusion, phasing out does indeed remove equipment from the game, causing it to lose all memory of its former state. When a permanent phases out, any equipment attached to it will also phase out, retaining its state before phasing out when the permanent phases back in.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newcomer to Magic: The Gathering, understanding the intricacies of phasing and its effects on equipment is crucial for success in the game. Remember to keep an eye on your permanents and their attached equipment, and make strategic decisions about when to phase out and when to keep them in the game.