How Does Board Wipes Work?
A board wipe, also known as a board sweep, is an instant or sorcery spell that destroys or exiles all permanents of a certain type. Board wipes are often found in white, but can exist in other colors as well. In this article, we will dive deeper into the mechanics of board wipes and how they work.
What Does a Board Wipe Target?
A board wipe typically targets all permanents of a specific type on the battlefield. This can include creatures, artifacts, enchantments, and even planeswalkers. Note that board wipes do not target individual creatures, but rather all creatures of a specific type. This means that if a board wipe is cast targeting "creatures", all creatures on the battlefield will be destroyed or exiled, regardless of their individual characteristics.
How Does a Board Wipe Work?
When a board wipe is cast, it will begin to resolve by targeting all permanents of the specified type on the battlefield. The board wipe will then destroy or exile each targeted permanent, regardless of whether it has any abilities or not. Indestructible permanents are the exception, as they are immune to destruction. However, permanents that have been exiled will still be removed from the game.
Do Board Wipes Go Through Indestructible?
While indestructible permanents are not destroyed by board wipes, they can still be exiled. This means that indestructible permanents can still be affected by board wipes that exile rather than destroy.
How Many Board Wipes Should I Run?
The number of board wipes to run in a deck is a matter of personal preference and playstyle. Traditional deckbuilding templates often recommend running 5-7 board wipes, but some players have found success with fewer. The key is to strike a balance between the power of your board wipes and the risk of running too many.
Do Ward and Hexproof Stop Board Wipes?
- Ward: No, Ward does not protect against board wipes. If a board wipe targets "creatures", a Ward-protected creature will still be destroyed or exiled.
- Hexproof: No, Hexproof does not protect against exile. If a board wipe exiles "creatures", a Hexproof-protected creature will still be exiled.
Can You Enchant Your Own Creature with Protection?
No, you cannot enchant your own creature with protection. According to the Magic: The Gathering Official Rules, "A permanent or player with protection can’t be enchanted by Auras that have the stated quality." This means that even if you try to enchant your own creature with protection, the enchantment will be put into the graveyard as a state-based action.
Does Indestructible Stop Exile?
No, indestructible only protects against destruction. Exile is a separate mechanic that is not affected by indestructible.
Does Double Strike Count as First Strike?
No, double strike is a separate mechanic that is not related to first strike. Effects that make a creature lose first strike will not affect its double strike.
Table: Common Board Wipes
| Board Wipe | Card Type | Mana Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Wrath of God | Sorcery | 2WW |
| Anger of the Gods | Sorcery | 2RR |
| Apocalypse | Sorcery | 2GGG |
| Crux of Fate | Sorcery | 1WU |
In conclusion, board wipes are a powerful tool in Magic: The Gathering that can quickly and decisively turn the tide of a game. Understanding how they work and when to use them is key to mastering the game. By following the guidelines and rules outlined in this article, you can make the most of your board wipes and take your gameplay to the next level.