Is Blocking Considered Attacking MTG?
In Magic: The Gathering, blocking is a crucial aspect of the game that allows players to defend their life total against an opponent’s attacking creatures. But, is blocking considered attacking? This question has sparked debates among MTG enthusiasts, and in this article, we’ll delve into the details to provide a clear answer.
Direct Answer: Yes, Blocking Counts as Attacking
According to the official Magic: The Gathering rules, blocking is considered attacking. When a player blocks a creature, they are, in essence, attacking the attacking creature with their own creature. This means that the blocking creature is also considered an attacker, and its ability to block the attacking creature does not negate its attacking status.
Why Is Blocking Considered Attacking?
Blocking is considered attacking because it satisfies the criteria for attacking, which is to declare a creature as an attacker and make it attack a player. When a player blocks a creature, they are declaring that creature as an attacker and making it attack their opponent. This declaration is what constitutes attacking, regardless of whether the creature is being blocked or not.
The Impact of Indestructible and Deathtouch
Two abilities that can affect the outcome of blocking are Indestructible and Deathtouch. Indestructible creatures cannot be destroyed, including when they are blocked. This means that even if a creature is blocked, it will not be destroyed unless it has a specific ability that allows it to be destroyed. Deathtouch, on the other hand, causes "lethal damage" to creatures, which means that if a creature with deathtouch deals damage to a blocking creature, that creature will be destroyed.
First Strike and Double Strike
When a creature with First Strike or Double Strike attacks, it will deal its combat damage before the defending player can block. This means that if a player blocks a creature with First Strike or Double Strike, the blocking creature will still take damage from the attacking creature’s ability.
Can 2 Creatures Block 1 Attacker?
Yes, the base rules of Magic: The Gathering allow for multiple creatures to block a single attacker. When a player declares a creature as a blocker, they are declaring that creature as an attacker, and its ability to block the attacking creature does not negate its attacking status.
Tapping a Blocking Creature
Tapping a blocking creature does not affect its ability to block. Tapped creatures can still block, and the damage they deal will still be considered. This means that even if a player taps a blocking creature, it will still be able to block and deal damage.
In Summary
In conclusion, blocking is indeed considered attacking in Magic: The Gathering. When a player blocks a creature, they are declaring that creature as an attacker and making it attack their opponent. This declaration satisfies the criteria for attacking, regardless of whether the creature is being blocked or not. The abilities Indestructible and Deathtouch can affect the outcome of blocking, and First Strike and Double Strike can affect the timing of damage dealt. Tapping a blocking creature does not affect its ability to block, and multiple creatures can block a single attacker.
Additional Tips and Strategies
Here are some additional tips and strategies to keep in mind when blocking:
- Use blocking to trade creatures: If you have a weaker creature and your opponent has a stronger one, you can use blocking to trade creatures and even out the battlefield.
- Use blocking to gain life: If you have a creature with a life-gaining ability, you can use blocking to gain life while also defending against your opponent’s attack.
- Use blocking to create opportunities: By blocking with a creature, you can create opportunities to attack with other creatures or play other cards.
By understanding the concept of blocking as attacking, you can improve your Magic: The Gathering gameplay and make more informed decisions during matches.