A resource in Magic is a supply of something that a player has and can use when it is needed to play and to get closer to however they intend to win the game. Resources are spent to pay costs, usually when casting spells and activating abilities.

Types of resources

The following resources can be identified:

• Mana
• Life
• Energy
• Counters
  • Acorns ()
  • Tickets ()
• Cards in Hand
• Cards in the Library
• Cards in the Graveyard
• Card in Exile
• Cards in the Command zone
• Permanents in play
• Time

Pseudo-resources

Some mechanics function in ways similar to a resource but are not considered true resources because they can't be collected by a player.

• Pawprints () function like a resource but only exist when casting a spell that uses them.

Trivia

• The Exodus card Limited Resources limits the amount of land (mana resources) that can be in play.
• Mystery Booster 2 included test cards that played around with resources.
  • Alberix, the Trade Planet is the first card that mention resources in rules text. Its Planet mechanic uses exiled cards as a resource.
  • Boulder Jockey is the first card to allow players to use their land drop () as a resource.