What is the Rule 614.9 in Magic The Gathering?
Magic: The Gathering is a popular trading card game that involves strategic gameplay and complex rules. One of the most crucial rules in the game is Rule 614.9, which deals with redirection effects. In this article, we will delve into the meaning and implications of Rule 614.9, helping you to improve your gameplay and make more informed decisions.
Redirecting Damage
Rule 614.9 states: "If noncombat damage would be dealt to a player by a source controlled by an opponent, that opponent may have that source deal that damage to a planeswalker the first player controls instead." This rule allows the opponent of the player who would normally take the damage to redirect it to a planeswalker controlled by the first player.
Key Points:
• Noncombat damage: This type of damage is not caused by combat, but rather by other means such as spells, abilities, or other forms of harm.
• Source controlled by an opponent: The source of the damage is a card or ability controlled by the opponent.
• Planeswalker the first player controls: The player who would normally take the damage can choose to redirect it to a planeswalker they control.
• First player controls: The player who would normally take the damage has the ability to redirect the damage to a planeswalker they control.
When Does Rule 614.9 Apply?
Rule 614.9 applies when a player would take noncombat damage from a source controlled by their opponent. This can happen in various situations, such as:
• Spells and abilities: When an opponent’s spell or ability deals damage to a player.
• Creatures with abilities: When an opponent’s creature with an ability deals damage to a player.
• Other sources: When an opponent’s other source, such as a token or a phenomenon, deals damage to a player.
How to Apply Rule 614.9
When a player would take noncombat damage, they can choose to redirect it to a planeswalker they control. To apply Rule 614.9, follow these steps:
- Check the source: Determine the source of the damage.
- Check the opponent’s control: Verify that the source is controlled by the opponent.
- Check the planeswalkers: Look for a planeswalker controlled by the first player.
- Choose the redirection: The player can choose to redirect the damage to a planeswalker they control.
- Apply the damage: The damage is redirected to the chosen planeswalker.
Example
Suppose player A casts a spell that would deal 3 damage to player B. Player B has a planeswalker, Atraxa, controlled by them. Player B can choose to redirect the damage to Atraxa using Rule 614.9. The 3 damage would then be dealt to Atraxa instead of player B.
Conclusion
Rule 614.9 in Magic: The Gathering allows players to redirect noncombat damage from an opponent’s source to a planeswalker they control. This rule is crucial in strategic gameplay, as it can help players avoid taking damage and keep their life total intact. By understanding when and how to apply Rule 614.9, you can improve your gameplay and make more informed decisions in your matches.
Additional Resources
- Magic: The Gathering Official Rules: For a comprehensive understanding of the game’s rules.
- Magic: The Gathering Community: For a community-driven discussion on strategy and gameplay.
- Magic: The Gathering Decks: For inspiration on building decks and strategies.