Does a Creature with 0 Power Deal Damage?
In the world of Magic: The Gathering, creatures with 0 power are a fascinating concept. But do they deal damage when they attack? In this article, we’ll dive into the rules of the game to find out.
Direct Answer
A creature with 0 power does not deal damage during the damage step.
Why?
Let’s break down the rules to understand why a creature with 0 power doesn’t deal damage.
702.12b: Permanent with Indestructible
Firstly, the ruling 702.12b states that a permanent with indestructible can’t be destroyed. This means that even if a creature has 0 power, it won’t be destroyed by lethal damage.
704.5g: State-Based Actions
Secondly, the state-based action (704.5g) checks for lethal damage. If a creature has 0 power, it’s not considered to have lethal damage, and therefore, the state-based action won’t trigger.
Deathtouch and Lethal Damage
Now, let’s talk about Deathtouch, a keyword ability that allows a creature to destroy an attacking or blocking creature as it deals damage. If a creature with 0 power has Deathtouch, it won’t deal damage and won’t destroy the creature. A creature with 0 power won’t deal damage, and therefore, won’t trigger Deathtouch.
Can a Creature with Deathtouch Deal 0 Damage?
Some players might wonder if a creature with Deathtouch can deal 0 damage. The answer is no. Deathtouch only triggers when a creature deals damage, and if a creature has 0 power, it won’t deal damage.
Does 0 Damage Count as Damage?
The question remains: does 0 damage count as damage? The answer is no. 0 damage is not considered damage.
What Happens if a Creature with 0 Power Attacks?
So, what happens if a creature with 0 power attacks? The attack will resolve, but no damage will be dealt. The creature won’t deal damage, and the opponent’s life total won’t change.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a creature with 0 power does not deal damage during the damage step. This is due to the rules of indestructibility and state-based actions. Additionally, Deathtouch won’t trigger, and 0 damage is not considered damage. When a creature with 0 power attacks, the attack will resolve, but no damage will be dealt.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some tips and tricks to keep in mind:
• Don’t rely on a creature with 0 power to deal damage. If you want your creature to deal damage, make sure it has a positive power value.
• Use Deathtouch strategically. Deathtouch can be a powerful ability, but it’s only effective when a creature deals damage. Don’t waste it on a creature with 0 power.
• Keep your life total in mind. Even if a creature with 0 power attacks, it won’t deal damage and won’t change your life total. Plan your attacks accordingly.
By understanding the rules and mechanics of Magic: The Gathering, you can make informed decisions during your games. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the game, this article has provided you with valuable insights into the world of 0-power creatures.