Keyword AbilitiesIntermediate

Hexproof in MTG

Opponents cannot target this permanent or player with their spells or abilities.

Why it matters

Hexproof restricts only opponents. The permanent's controller may still target it, and effects that do not use the word target can still affect it.

Visual example

Reject an illegal target

Slippery Bogle

Cannot be targeted by an opponent's spell or ability

Lightning Bolt

Cannot legally target the opposing Bogle

  1. 1An opponent controls Slippery Bogle with hexproof.
  2. 2You try to cast Lightning Bolt targeting it.
  3. 3Hexproof makes that target illegal, so that cast cannot be made.

Real card example

Slippery Bogle

Cannot be targeted by an opponent's spell or ability

Common mistakes

  • Hexproof does not protect against effects that say each or all instead of target.
  • You may target your own permanent with hexproof.

Official rule reference

Comprehensive Rules 702.11 · Current Comprehensive Rules

View official rules