Cards and Card TypesIntermediate

Battle in MTG

A permanent card type that enters with defense counters and can be attacked.

Why it matters

A battle's subtype defines special rules for it. A Siege enters under its caster's control, who chooses an opponent to protect it. Damage removes defense counters, and a Siege defeated with none remaining may be exiled and cast transformed.

Visual example

Defeat a Siege

Invasion of Zendikar // Awakened Skyclave

A Siege that transforms after its defense is defeated

1. Name

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2. Mana cost

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3. Type line

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4. Rules text

Defeat a Siege

  1. 1Invasion of Zendikar enters with defense counters and an opponent protects it.
  2. 2Creatures attack the Battle and damage removes its defense counters.
  3. 3When its last defense counter is removed, exile it and cast its transformed face without paying its mana cost.

Real card example

Invasion of Zendikar

A Siege that transforms after its defense is defeated

Common mistakes

  • A battle is a permanent, not a player or planeswalker.
  • The protector of a Siege does not control it.

Official rule reference

Comprehensive Rules 310 · Current Comprehensive Rules

View official rules