What happens if a creature has first strike and Deathtouch?

What Happens if a Creature has First Strike and Deathtouch?

In the world of Magic: The Gathering, creatures with first strike and deathtouch abilities can be formidable opponents on the battlefield. But have you ever wondered what happens when a creature has both of these abilities? In this article, we’ll explore the rules and strategies surrounding first strike and deathtouch, and provide a comprehensive answer to the question: What happens if a creature has first strike and deathtouch?

Direct Answer

If a creature has both first strike and deathtouch, it will deal damage to the opponent’s creature during the first strike damage step, and if that damage equals or exceeds the opponent’s creature’s toughness, the opponent’s creature will be destroyed. The opponent’s creature will not have a chance to deal damage back to the attacking creature.

How Deathtouch Works

Deathtouch is a static ability that causes 1 point of damage of the source with deathtouch to kill any creature it deals damage to (unless that creature is indestructible). This means that if a creature with deathtouch deals damage to another creature, that creature will be destroyed immediately, regardless of its toughness.

How First Strike Works

First strike is a triggered ability that causes a creature to deal combat damage to the opponent’s creature before the opponent’s creature deals damage back to the attacking creature. This means that if a creature with first strike attacks an opponent’s creature, it will deal damage to that creature during the first strike damage step, and the opponent’s creature will not have a chance to deal damage back to the attacking creature until the second combat damage step.

Interaction Between First Strike and Deathtouch

When a creature with both first strike and deathtouch attacks an opponent’s creature, the following sequence of events occurs:

1. The attacking creature deals damage to the opponent’s creature during the first strike damage step.
2. The opponent’s creature is destroyed due to the deathtouch ability.
3. The opponent’s creature does not have a chance to deal damage back to the attacking creature.

Strategies and Examples

Here are some strategies and examples to illustrate how first strike and deathtouch work together:

• Use a creature with both first strike and deathtouch to clear the way for other attackers: By destroying an opponent’s creature with deathtouch, you can create an opening for your other creatures to attack without worrying about the opponent’s creature dealing damage back.
• Use a creature with first strike and deathtouch to finish off an opponent’s creature: If an opponent’s creature is low on toughness, you can use a creature with first strike and deathtouch to finish it off quickly and efficiently.
• Use a creature with first strike and deathtouch to block an opponent’s creature: If an opponent’s creature is attacking you with a powerful creature, you can use a creature with first strike and deathtouch to block it and destroy it quickly.

Table: Summary of First Strike and Deathtouch

Conclusion

In conclusion, when a creature has both first strike and deathtouch, it will deal damage to the opponent’s creature during the first strike damage step, and if that damage equals or exceeds the opponent’s creature’s toughness, the opponent’s creature will be destroyed. This powerful combination of abilities can be a game-changer on the battlefield, and understanding how they interact can help you make informed decisions about your deckbuilding and gameplay strategies.