Within the Magic: The Gathering trading card game, removing a designated opposing permanent from the battlefield and placing it into the exile zone is a potent tactical maneuver. For example, a card might instruct a player to select an opposing creature and move it to the exile zone. This action differs from other removal methods, such as destroying or sacrificing, as exiled cards are removed entirely from the current game state.
This form of removal offers distinct advantages. It bypasses abilities that trigger upon death or destruction, effectively neutralizing problematic threats. Furthermore, cards placed in exile typically remain there permanently, preventing resurrection through standard means. This potent effect has shaped competitive play since its introduction, offering a powerful answer to resilient creatures and game-winning combinations.