How is damage dealt with multiple blockers?

How is Damage Dealt with Multiple Blockers?

In the thrilling game of Magic: The Gathering, combat is a crucial aspect of strategy and calculation. When a creature declares an attack, it seeks to deal damage to an opponent’s life total, or potentially eliminate an enemy creature. One of the most common ways to resolve an attack is through a blockade of one or multiple creatures. But have you ever wondered, How is damage dealt with multiple blockers? In this article, we’ll explore the intricacies of the rules and delve into the various scenarios and strategies regarding damage assignment and resolution in combat.

Assigning Damage with Multiple Blockers

When an attacking creature has multiple blockers, it’s essential to understand that the attacking player declares how the damage is assigned. This process occurs during the declare blockers step. The attacking player must state the order in which each blocking creature will receive its portion of damage. To make things easier, you can think of it this way: "Creature A" takes some damage first, then "Creature B," and finally "Creature C."

Multiple Blockers ScenariosAssigning Damage OrderPossible Results
3 creatures in front of the attackingCreature 1 then Creature 2 then AttackIf the three creatures have trample and no other effects, Attack gets through unblocked after killing the other two blockers.
5 creatures in a row blockedCreature 1 then Creature 2, etc. up to the 5thDepending on creature toughnesses, some might die; the rest deal damage normally.

Keep in mind that individually unblockable abilities, like Deathtouch, still work their magic during combat. Whenever a Deathtouch ability attacks, it forces the attacker to assign all applicable damage to the unblocked creature(s). Note that this overrides the assignment declared by the attacking player.

Special Abilities that Impact Damage Assignment

Aside from Deathtough, other abilities can influence damage assignment. Some examples are:

  • Double Strike: Creatures with double strike deal damage twice during combat, once as a first strike and another time as normal. Even with multiple blockers, their first strike portion of damage always goes first.
  • Trample: Creature toughness is bypassed entirely for excess damage, while other blockers do not care about the toughness of any blocked creature(s).
  • Lingering Liquids: Cards like Rites of Catharic Storm deal a set number of damage (in the form of fire) every combat phase to all entities within a zone. All applicable damage (including deathtouch) triggers independently.

Understanding these interlocking mechanics enables you to adapt your game plan efficiently.

Handling Multiple blockers: Strategies and Tips

  • Think ahead! Anticipate an opponent’s plan and calculate your moves in advance, adjusting your strategy based on each individual creature and its assigned blocking role.
  • Timing is key: Time your attacks accordingly, given your opponent’s potential for future blockers, to guarantee your creatures hit their targeted areas.
  • Balance toughness and numbers: Spread out your defense by prioritizing creatures of varying power and toughness. This not only helps withstand multiple hits but also encourages your opponents to make tougher decisions.
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