What are the Rules for Targeting Planeswalkers?
In the world of Magic: The Gathering, Planeswalkers are powerful cards that can be a game-changer in any deck. However, targeting Planeswalkers can be a bit tricky, and it’s essential to understand the rules surrounding it. In this article, we’ll delve into the rules for targeting Planeswalkers and provide you with a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the complexities of MTG.
Can Planeswalkers be Attacked?
Yes, Planeswalkers can be attacked, but only in specific circumstances. According to the official MTG rules, a Planeswalker can be attacked if it’s the only creature or planeswalker on the battlefield that can receive combat damage. This means that if a player controls multiple creatures or planeswalkers, they can choose which one to attack.
How to Target Planeswalkers
To target a Planeswalker, you need to specify it as the target of a spell or ability. This can be done by naming the Planeswalker or by using a targeting ability that allows you to choose a specific creature or planeswalker. For example, a spell like Lightning Strike can target a Planeswalker if it’s the only creature or planeswalker on the battlefield that can receive combat damage.
Redirecting Damage
In some cases, you may want to redirect damage from a Planeswalker to another creature or planeswalker. This can be done using abilities like "Redirect" or "Redirect damage to another creature or planeswalker." These abilities allow you to shift the damage from one target to another, giving you more flexibility in combat.
Can Legendary Planeswalkers be Commanders?
Yes, legendary Planeswalkers can be commanders in Commander format. In fact, many legendary Planeswalkers are designed to be commanders, with abilities that allow them to lead the way in combat. However, it’s essential to note that not all Planeswalkers can be commanders, and some may have specific restrictions or requirements.
The First Five Planeswalkers
The first five Planeswalkers to be printed in MTG were Ajani, Jace, Liliana, Chandra, and Garruk. These Planeswalkers were introduced in the Lorwyn set and have since become iconic figures in the MTG universe.
Most Planeswalkers in a Set
The sets with the most Planeswalkers are M13 and M15, which both feature six Planeswalkers each. Most blocks tend to cap at five Planeswalkers, with one or two Planeswalkers per set. Core sets, on the other hand, often feature five Planeswalkers, including the main five.
Rules for Targeting Planeswalkers
Here are the key rules for targeting Planeswalkers:
- A Planeswalker can be attacked if it’s the only creature or planeswalker on the battlefield that can receive combat damage.
- To target a Planeswalker, you need to specify it as the target of a spell or ability.
- Redirecting damage from a Planeswalker to another creature or planeswalker is possible using abilities like "Redirect" or "Redirect damage to another creature or planeswalker."
- Legendary Planeswalkers can be commanders in Commander format.
- The first five Planeswalkers were Ajani, Jace, Liliana, Chandra, and Garruk.
- The sets with the most Planeswalkers are M13 and M15, which both feature six Planeswalkers each.
Conclusion
Targeting Planeswalkers can be a complex and nuanced aspect of MTG, but by understanding the rules and strategies surrounding it, you can improve your gameplay and take your deck to the next level. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the world of MTG, this guide has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the rules for targeting Planeswalkers.