StatecraftHow it works & interactions with other cards

What It Does

Statecraft sets up a global prevention shield for your board. While it is on the battlefield, any combat damage that would be dealt by creatures you control is prevented, and any combat damage that would be dealt to creatures you control is also prevented. Note that this only applies to combat damage; non-combat damage from spells or abilities still functions normally.

Step by Step Resolution

When a creature you control is involved in combat, the game checks for damage during the Combat Damage Step. Statecraft creates a continuous effect that modifies this event. First, identify all combat damage assigned to your creatures and by your creatures. Second, Statecraft's prevention effect applies immediately, reducing that damage to zero before it is even marked. Finally, the creatures remain on the battlefield, having survived the exchange without dealing any harm.

Common Mistakes

A frequent error is assuming Statecraft prevents abilities that trigger on 'attack' or 'block.' It does not stop creatures from attacking or blocking; it only modifies the damage they deal. Another mistake is thinking it protects you, the player. Statecraft only prevents damage dealt to creatures you control, not combat damage dealt to your life total by unblocked enemy creatures.

When to Play It

This card is ideal for defensive 'Pillow Fort' strategies where you want to use your creatures as infinite blockers without losing them. It is also useful if you have creatures with powerful abilities that trigger simply by attacking or being blocked, regardless of whether damage is dealt.

Interaction examples

The Infinite Wall

Propaganda

With Propaganda in play, your opponent must pay mana just to declare an attack against you. If they do pay and attack, Statecraft ensures that your blockers take zero damage from the attackers. This duo makes you incredibly difficult to kill via combat.

Slowing the Game

Rhystic Study

In a game where you have Rhystic Study, you want the match to last as long as possible to draw maximum cards. By playing Statecraft, you prevent the board state from thinning out through creature trades. You can block your opponent's largest threats indefinitely, stalling the game while Rhystic Study generates massive card advantage every time they try to find an answer.