Is Hexproof immune to sorcery?

Is Hexproof Immune to Sorcery?

Hexproof is a powerful keyword ability that prevents a creature from being targeted by spells and abilities controlled by an opponent. But what about sorcery? Are creatures with hexproof immune to sorcery as well? Let’s dive deeper into the rules of Magic: The Gathering to find out.

Direct Answer: Yes, Hexproof prevents targeting from spells and abilities, including sorcery

According to the official Magic: The Gathering rules, a creature with the Hexproof keyword ability "can’t be the target of spells or abilities" controlled by opponents. This explicitly includes sorcery spells, which are a type of spell that can only be cast from the spellbook and not from the battlefield. This means that creatures with hexproof are not vulnerable to being targeted by sorcery spells, as well as other spells and abilities.

Hexproof is specifically designed to prevent targeting

When a creature gains hexproof, it is not simply immune to every type of effect. The keyword ability specifically states that it prevents targeting from spells and abilities, not that it makes the creature completely unaffected. This distinction is important, as some effects may still be able to affect creatures with hexproof, even if they don’t target them directly.

Not all sorcery spells are equal

Not all sorcery spells are created equal. Some sorcery spells have the ability to disregard the hexproof ability, often by targeting the creature directly. For example, the sorcery spell "Wax/Wane" specifically targets a creature, regardless of whether it has hexproof or not.

Aura spells: The exception

Aura spells are a special type of sorcery that doesn’t target. Aura spells attach to creatures, not target them, so creatures with hexproof are immune to aura spells that don’t specify targeting. However, if an aura spell specifically targets a creature, even if it doesn’t say the word "target", the hexproof ability won’t prevent it from taking effect.

Consequences of sorcery without targeting

So, what happens when a creature with hexproof is affected by a sorcery spell that doesn’t target? The answer depends on the specific game state. If the creature is already on the battlefield, the spell will simply not affect it, since it can’t be targeted. If the creature is being cast (e.g., by the sorcery spell "Animate Artifact"), the creature will be able to be cast as normal.

Conclusion

In conclusion, hexproof indeed prevents a creature from being targeted by sorcery spells, as well as other spells and abilities. This ability is designed specifically to prevent targeting, and is immune to sorcery spells that don’t target. While some aura spells may still affect creatures with hexproof, most sorcery spells without targeting won’t be able to interact with these creatures.

Note: This article provides an overview of the official Magic: The Gathering rules. For further clarification or questions, refer to the official rulebook or consult with a Magic judge.