Shroud

Keywords · intermediate

A permanent or player with shroud can't be the target of spells or abilities -- not even your own.

How it works

• Shroud is the strict version of hexproof. Even the controller can't target their own permanent.
• This means equipment and aura plays are off the table for shroud creatures (equip and target-attaching aura cast both target).

Why it largely got replaced

• Shroud's biggest problem is that it gates helpful effects too. Players couldn't pump or protect their own shroud creatures.
• Wizards moved to hexproof (only opponents' targets are blocked) and later ward (counter the spell unless paid for).
• Shroud is now a legacy keyword, mostly seen on older cards (Troll Ascetic, True-Name Nemesis-adjacent designs).

Rule reference

[702.18]