Hearthstone Card Mechanics

Understand every keyword, card type, and game mechanic in Hearthstone.

Keywords

Battlecry

Does something when you play it from your hand.

Deathrattle

Does something when the minion dies.

Taunt

Enemies must attack this minion before others.

Divine Shield

The first damage this minion takes is prevented.

Rush

Can attack minions immediately, but not heroes.

Charge

Can attack immediately, including the enemy hero.

Lifesteal

Damage dealt by this card heals your hero for the same amount.

Poisonous

Destroys any minion damaged by this card.

Windfury

Can attack twice each turn.

Stealth

Cannot be targeted until it attacks.

Silence

Removes all card text and enchantments from a minion.

Discover

Choose one of three randomly offered cards to add to your hand.

Card Types

Minions

Minions are placed on the board with Attack and Health values. They can attack the enemy hero or trade into other minions. Minions often carry keywords or effects that trigger under certain conditions.

Spells

Spells are played from the hand and take effect immediately. They range from direct damage and healing to board clears and card draw. Spell schools like Fire, Frost, and Arcane enable additional synergies.

Weapons

Weapons equip to your hero, granting Attack and Durability. Your hero can attack minions or the enemy hero, losing one Durability per swing. Some weapons have additional effects when attacking or when destroyed.

Hero Cards

Hero Cards replace your hero power and often provide a Battlecry effect and Armor. They fundamentally change your strategy for the rest of the game and are typically high-cost, high-impact plays.

Locations

Locations are placed on the board and provide a reusable effect with a cooldown between activations. They cannot be attacked or targeted by spells, making them durable sources of value.