AssassinateHow it works & interactions with other cards

What it Does

Assassinate allows you to destroy a single target creature for three mana, provided that creature is currently tapped. Because it is a sorcery, you generally cannot cast it during an opponent's turn or during the combat phase unless you have another effect giving it flash.

How it Resolves Step by Step

First, you cast the spell and choose a target creature that is already tapped. If the creature is untapped when you try to cast it, the spell cannot be cast. Upon resolution, the game checks if the target is still tapped; if it is, the creature is destroyed and put into its owner's graveyard. If the target becomes untapped in response to the spell, the spell will fail to resolve because the target is no longer legal.

Common Mistakes

The most common error is trying to use Assassinate to stop an attacking creature during the combat phase. Since Assassinate is a sorcery, you usually cannot cast it until your Second Main Phase, after the creature has already finished its attack. Additionally, remember that 'Destroy' effects are prevented by abilities like Indestructible.

When to Play It

This card is most effective in decks that can survive an initial attack. It is best used to clean up powerful threats that have recently swung at you or used a tap ability. While it lacks the flexibility of instant-speed removal, its lower mana cost compared to some unrestricted destruction spells makes it a solid inclusion in casual or limited environments.

Interaction examples

Setting Up the Strike

Demonic Tutor

If your opponent has a dangerous tapped creature but you haven't drawn your removal yet, you can cast Demonic Tutor to search your library for Assassinate. Since you put the card directly into your hand, you can then immediately cast Assassinate during the same Main Phase to eliminate the threat.

Strategic Board Wiping

Toxic Deluge

Imagine your opponent has a massive creature that survived a Toxic Deluge because you didn't have enough life to pay for a high X value. If that creature attacked you on the previous turn and remains tapped, you can follow up with Assassinate to finish off the lone survivor without spending any more life.

Targeting Restrictions

You identify a creature your opponent just used to cast a spell via a tap ability. Because the creature is now tapped, it is a legal target for Assassinate. You cast the spell during your Main Phase, the creature is destroyed, and it is moved to the graveyard.