Keyword AbilitiesBeginner

Defender in MTG

A creature with defender cannot attack.

Why it matters

Defender creates an attacking restriction. The creature can still block and use its abilities normally unless another effect says otherwise.

Visual example

Stay back to block

Wall of Omens

A defender that can block but cannot normally attack

Stay back to block
  1. 1Wall of Omens is untapped at the start of combat.
  2. 2Defender prevents you from declaring it as an attacker.
  3. 3It remains available to block on the opponent's turn.

Real card example

Wall of Omens

A defender that can block but cannot normally attack

Common mistakes

  • Defender does not prevent a creature from blocking.
  • The Wall creature type does not automatically grant defender.

Official rule reference

Comprehensive Rules 702.3 · Current Comprehensive Rules

View official rules