Does Turning Face Up Count as Entering Battlefield?
When it comes to Magic: The Gathering, understanding the intricacies of entering and leaving the battlefield is crucial for navigating complex game situations. One common question among players is whether turning a permanent face up counts as entering the battlefield. In this article, we’ll delve into the answer, exploring the rules and scenarios that pertain to this topic.
Direct Answer
According to the Magic: The Gathering Comprehensive Rules (2020), turning a permanent face up does not count as entering the battlefield. This means that when you flip a card from face-down to face-up, it doesn’t trigger abilities that are triggered by entering the battlefield.
But Why?
To understand why this is the case, let’s examine the rules governing entering the battlefield. The Comprehensive Rules state that a permanent enters the battlefield when it is created or moved to the battlefield, but not when it is turned face up.
Examples and Scenarios
Here are some examples and scenarios to illustrate the difference:
- Transforming a card: When a card transforms, such as a double-faced card changing its face, this is considered entering the battlefield. This triggers abilities and effects that are triggered by entering the battlefield.
- Turning a creature face up: When you flip a creature from face-down to face-up, this does not trigger abilities or effects that are triggered by entering the battlefield. Instead, the creature is already on the battlefield and can be attacked, blocked, or otherwise interacted with as usual.
- Exiling a card: When a card is exiled, it is moved to a specific zone of the game and is not considered to be on the battlefield. When the card is returned to the battlefield, this is considered entering the battlefield and triggers the usual effects.
Subtle Points to Consider
While turning a permanent face up may not count as entering the battlefield, there are some subtle points to keep in mind:
- State-based actions: Some effects, such as damage or token generation, are triggered by state-based actions. These effects may still apply even if the card is turned face up and does not enter the battlefield.
- Abilities with "enters the battlefield" triggers: Certain abilities have triggers that activate when a permanent enters the battlefield. These abilities may not trigger when a permanent is turned face up.
- Card interactions: Some cards have interactions or effects that are triggered when a permanent enters the battlefield. These interactions may still occur when a permanent is turned face up, but only if the card in question is on the battlefield at the time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, turning a permanent face up does not count as entering the battlefield. This important distinction is crucial for navigating complex game situations and making informed decisions during gameplay. By understanding the rules governing entering the battlefield, players can improve their overall strategic gameplay and make more informed decisions.