So i understand that transformed objects remain the same object and if a creature is targeted by say a destroy target creature and transforms into another creature its still a valid target. However, what if it transforms in responce to an invalid card type? Ixalan got me thinking about this with all the new Enchatment->land transformations. If my opponent uses a destroy target permanent then the land would still be a valid target but if it specifies destroy target enchantment then the spell should fizzle out during resolution correct? Or does the effect only need an object to be a valid target when it is first nominated and it doesn't matter what it actually is during resolution? I've found a couple responses to similar questions but nothing that gave a solid answer
The requirements for the target are the exact same check at the two times when it matters: Is it a "enchantment" when the spell or ability is played, and is it a "enchantment" when that spell or ability begins to resolve. Satisfying the language surrounding the word 'target' in the text is what is meant by "legal target", which is what the rules say on both counts.
Private Mod Note
():
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Epic banner by Erasmus of æтђєг.
Awesome avatar provided by Krashbot @ [Epic Graphics].
Target legality is checked again when the spell starts to resolve. If the target is not valid at this point, it won't be affected. If it was the only target, the spell is countered.
You got it right. The targets of a spell or ability have to be legal at two times: when the spell/ability is put on the stack, and when it would start to resolve. If none of the targets are legal anymore when the spell/ability would resolve, it is countered by the game rules (it "fizzles") and none of its effects happen. If at least one target is still legal, the spell/ability will do as much as it can, but can't perform any actions on an illegal target or make an ilegal target perform any actions.
Note, that in between the two legality checks, targets can be illegal without making the spell/ability fizzle. As long as at least one target is legal on the second check, the spell/ability will resolve and can affect that target. It is failing that second check entirely, that makes a spell/ability fizzle.
Awesome avatar provided by Krashbot @ [Epic Graphics].
Note, that in between the two legality checks, targets can be illegal without making the spell/ability fizzle. As long as at least one target is legal on the second check, the spell/ability will resolve and can affect that target. It is failing that second check entirely, that makes a spell/ability fizzle.
Former Rules Advisor
"Everything's better with pirates." - Lodge
(The Gamers: Dorkness Rising)
"Any sufficiently analyzed magic is indistinguishable from science."
(Girl Genius - Fairy Tale Theater Break - Cinderella, end of volume 8)