Ward

Keywords · intermediate

Whenever a permanent with ward becomes the target of a spell or ability an opponent controls, counter that spell or ability unless its controller pays the ward cost.

How it works

• Ward is a triggered ability. It goes on the stack when the spell/ability targets and resolves before the targeting spell does.
• The ward cost is whatever follows the keyword: Ward {2}, Ward -- pay 3 life, Ward -- discard a card.
• The opponent chooses whether to pay. They aren't forced. If they don't pay, the targeting spell or ability is countered.
• Ward triggers each time the creature becomes a new target, including from abilities of permanents you control if you let opponents target your creature for some reason.

Common interactions

• AOE removal ignores ward (it doesn't target).
• Stacking ward triggers can deny multiple sequential single-target removal spells -- each one has to pay separately.
• Ward and counterspells -- a counterspell that targets the ward'd creature is itself subject to ward. So "Ward {2}" doesn't help against Counterspell targeting an aura attached to the warded creature.

Why ward replaced hexproof

Hexproof was too binary -- either the creature was untouchable or fully exposed. Ward gives the controller a choice: pay the cost or lose the spell. It's healthier for the format.

Rule reference

[702.21]