What is Trample when Blocker is Removed?
Trample is a powerful and often debated topic in the world of Magic: The Gathering. In this article, we’ll explore what trample means when a blocker is removed and provide a comprehensive answer to the question.
Direct Answer:
Trample is a static ability that lets a creature deal excess combat damage to a defending player or planeswalker while attacking. When a blocker is removed, trample allows the attacking creature to deal the excess damage to the defending player, rather than the blocker.
When Does Trample Apply?
- Trample applies during combat damage assignment.
- When an attacking creature has trample and no creatures are blocking it, trample does not apply.
- Trample does not apply to indirect damage or damage that is not a result of combat.
What Happens when a Blocker is Removed?
- If a blocking creature is removed from combat, trample still applies.
- If the creature attacking with trample would deal 7 damage to the blocker and the blocker has 2 toughness, trample allows the attacking creature to deal 5 damage to the defending player.
- When the blocker is removed, trample goes through and deals excess damage to the defending player.
Lifelink and Trample:
- Lifelink does not apply when trample is dealing damage. The life gain effect does not occur when the creature deals damage due to trample.
- Lifelink can apply when trample deals damage indirectly. If trample deals damage to a creature that then deals damage to a player, the life gain effect can occur.
Examples of Trample with No Blocker:
| Creature | Power/Toughness | Trample? | Blocking Creatures |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tarkmoth, Cronarch of Etheria | 4/4 | None | |
| Abandoned Serra Captain | 4/4 | None | |
| Keldon Marauders | 4/4 | None |
Summary
In conclusion, trample is a powerful ability that allows a creature to deal excess damage to a defending player or planeswalker. When a blocker is removed, trample applies and deals excess damage to the defending player. Remember that trample does not apply to indirect damage or damage that is not a result of combat. Lifelink and trample do not interact in a direct manner, but lifelink can apply when trample deals damage indirectly.
I hope this article has provided a clear understanding of what trample means when a blocker is removed. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to reach out to us!
References:
- Magic: The Gathering Official Rulebook
- Official MTG Articles and Guides