Difference between revisions of "Problem-Solving Card Text"

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(that caught my eye when reading the effect of Infinitrack Brutal Dozer but it's weird that Firewall Dragon Darkfluid doesnt have that structure as well. If someone thinks this isnt worth mentioning or know the exact reason for this difference,...)
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{{Double image||Tragoedia-JUMP-EN-UR-LE.png|150|Tragoedia-BP01-EN-SFR-1E.png|150|"[[Tragoedia]]" is an example of a card already [[reprint]]ed with Problem-Solving Card Text. Left is the pre-PSCT ''[[Shonen Jump Vol. 7, Issue 9 promotional card|Shonen Jump Vol. 7, Issue 9]]'' print. Right is the PSCT ''[[Battle Pack: Epic Dawn]]'' reprint.}}
 
{{Double image||Tragoedia-JUMP-EN-UR-LE.png|150|Tragoedia-BP01-EN-SFR-1E.png|150|"[[Tragoedia]]" is an example of a card already [[reprint]]ed with Problem-Solving Card Text. Left is the pre-PSCT ''[[Shonen Jump Vol. 7, Issue 9 promotional card|Shonen Jump Vol. 7, Issue 9]]'' print. Right is the PSCT ''[[Battle Pack: Epic Dawn]]'' reprint.}}
'''Problem-Solving Card Text''' (often abbreviated '''PSCT''') was an update to [[card text]], introduced to [[Booster Pack]]s with the release of ''[[Generation Force]]''<ref name="GENF">{{cite web|url=http://www.yugioh-card.com/en/products/bp-genf.html|title=Product Info - Generation Force|publisher=Yugioh-Card.com|accessdate=July 28, 2011}}</ref> and [[Starter Deck]]s with the release of ''[[Starter Deck: Dawn of the Xyz]]'', with the intent to simplify card effects to the point that most situations could be resolved simply by applying logic.<ref name="part1">{{cite web|url=https://yugiohblog.konami.com/articles/?p=2906|title=Problem-Solving Card Text, Part 1: Reading the Cards of Tomorrow|last=Tewart|first=Kevin|authorlink=Kevin Tewart|publisher=[[Konami]]|date=May 20, 2011|accessdate=July 28, 2011}}</ref> It was announced by [[Kevin Tewart]] through a series of blog posts to [[Konami]]'s ''[[Yu-Gi-Oh! 5D's]] [[TCG]]'' Strategy Site.<ref name="part1" /><ref name="how-to-read-your-cards">{{cite web|url=https://yugiohblog.konami.com/articles/?tag=how-to-read-your-cards|title=Tag - How to read your cards|publisher=[[Konami]]|accessdate=July 28, 2011}}</ref>
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'''Problem-Solving Card Text''' (often abbreviated '''PSCT''') is a method of writing [[card text]] used for prints released from July 8, 2011 onward. The purpose of Problem-Solving Card Text is to specify card effects to the point that most situations can be resolved by logically interpreting the card text.<ref name="part1">{{cite web|url=https://yugiohblog.konami.com/articles/?p=2906|title=Problem-Solving Card Text, Part 1: Reading the Card's of Tomorrow|last=Tewart|first=Kevin|authorlink=Kevin Tewart|publisher=[[Konami]]|date=May 20, 2011|accessdate=July 28, 2011}}</ref>
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It was announced by [[Kevin Tewart]] through a series of blog posts to [[Konami]]'s ''[[Yu-Gi-Oh! 5D's]] [[TCG]]'' Strategy Site.<ref name="part1" /><ref name="how-to-read-your-cards">{{cite web|url=https://yugiohblog.konami.com/articles/?tag=how-to-read-your-cards|title=Tag - How to read your cards|publisher=[[Konami]]|accessdate=July 28, 2011}}</ref> It was introduced to [[Booster Pack]]s with the release of ''[[Generation Force]]''<ref name="GENF">{{cite web|url=http://www.yugioh-card.com/en/products/bp-genf.html|title=Product Info - Generation Force|publisher=Yugioh-Card.com|accessdate=July 28, 2011}}</ref> and [[Starter Deck]]s with the release of ''[[Starter Deck: Dawn of the Xyz]]''. Reissues of older products, such as ''[[Duelist Pack: Kaiba]]'' from the [[Silver Dragon Value Box]], often use Problem-Solving Card Text.
  
 
''[[Legendary Collection 2: The Duel Academy Years Mega Pack]]'' was in part created to reprint many old cards with the new text style (including the "[[HERO]]" monsters).<ref name="part2">{{cite web|url=https://yugiohblog.konami.com/articles/?p=2915|title=Problem-Solving Card Text, Part 2: New Words & Phrases|last=Tewart|first=Kevin|authorlink=Kevin Tewart|publisher=[[Konami]]|date=May 23, 2011|accessdate=July 28, 2011}}</ref>
 
''[[Legendary Collection 2: The Duel Academy Years Mega Pack]]'' was in part created to reprint many old cards with the new text style (including the "[[HERO]]" monsters).<ref name="part2">{{cite web|url=https://yugiohblog.konami.com/articles/?p=2915|title=Problem-Solving Card Text, Part 2: New Words & Phrases|last=Tewart|first=Kevin|authorlink=Kevin Tewart|publisher=[[Konami]]|date=May 23, 2011|accessdate=July 28, 2011}}</ref>
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==Interpretation==
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Problem-Solving Card Text uses specific words with very particular meanings in the context of gameplay. How to interpret the text is important to understanding how to apply card text to the game.
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This interpretation can only be applied for cards that use Problem-Solving Card Text. Cards that were printed with earlier text may use some of the same terms or structures, but this does not necessarily mean that they work as if they were Problem-Solving Card Text.
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===Text structure===
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* All card effects that make a [[Chain Link]] include a colon " ''':''' " or a semicolon " ''';''' " somewhere in their text (possibly both). If a card effect does not use either, it does not make a Chain Link.<ref name="part3">{{cite web|url=https://yugiohblog.konami.com/articles/?p=2947|title=Problem-Solving Card Text, Part 3: Conditions, Activations, and Effects|last=Tewart|first=Kevin|authorlink=Kevin Tewart|publisher=[[Konami]]|date=June 1, 2011|accessdate=July 28, 2011}}</ref>
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** The activation of a [[Spell Card|Spell]] or [[Trap Card]] always makes a Chain Link, but its effect that [[resolve]]s with the card itself (if any) does not necessarily use a colon or semicolon.<ref name="part3" /> This effect is usually the first effect listed in the card's text.
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* Text before the '''colon''' " ''':''' " describes [[Activation requirement|activation conditions]] (limits on ''when'' or ''how often'' a card or effect can be activated).<ref name="Rulebook 9.1 p48-49">{{cite book  |last=Konami  |title=Yu-Gi-Oh! Trading Card Game - Official Rulebook Version 10  |url=https://yugipedia.com/wiki/File:Rulebook_v10.pdf?page=56 |pages=52-53}}</ref><ref name="part3" /> These conditions only need to be met when the card is activated.<ref name="part4">{{cite web|url=https://yugiohblog.konami.com/articles/?p=2962|title=Problem-Solving Card Text, Part 4: The Clues on Your Cards|last=Tewart|first=Kevin|authorlink=Kevin Tewart|publisher=[[Konami]]|date=June 1, 2011|accessdate=September 13, 2011}}</ref>
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** Conditions other than target requirements that have to be met during both activation and resolution are specifically noted in a separate sentence after the effect sentence (e.g. "[[Zombie Master]]", "[[Treeborn Frog]]").<ref name="part4"/>
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* Text before the '''semicolon''' " ''';''' " (but after the colon, if any) describes anything that happens when that card or effect is activated (such as ''[[cost]]s'' and ''[[target]]ing'').<ref name="Rulebook 9.1 p48-49"/><ref name="part3" />
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* Built-In [[Special Summon]]s (other than [[Synchro Summon|Synchro]], [[Xyz Summon|Xyz]], [[Pendulum Summon|Pendulum]], or [[Link Summon|Link]]) are denoted by '''parentheses''' " '''()''' " stating the location from which the monster can be Special Summoned.<ref name="part5">{{cite web|url=https://yugiohblog.konami.com/articles/?p=3111|title=Problem-Solving Card Text, Part 5: Special Summons|last=Tewart|first=Kevin|authorlink=Kevin Tewart|publisher=[[Konami]]|date=July 27, 2011|accessdate=July 28, 2011}}</ref>
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* Cards with bulleted effects (●) that resolve in the same [[Chain Link]] specify whether they resolve simultaneously or sequentially (if sequentially, effects are applied in the order they are listed). In these cases, each effect activated resolves independent of the success of the other(s).
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** The text "in sequence" indicates that the bulleted effects are applied sequentially (e.g. "[[Gravekeeper's Oracle]]", "[[Advance Zone]]").
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** The text "(simultaneously)" indicates that the bulleted effects are applied simultaneously (e.g. "[[Ryko, Lightsworn Hunter]]", "[[Kunai with Chain]]").
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** If neither is specified, the effects each make separate Chain Links (e.g. "[[Metaphys Horus]]").
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===Terminology and phrasing===
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* The terms "that target" or "those targets" '''and''' "it" or "they/them" have specific meanings in the resolution of the effect.<ref name="part4"/>
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** "That target" and "those targets" indicate that targets must still meet the target requirements at resolution to be affected. "Both (those) targets" and "all three targets" indicate that all targets must still meet the target requirements at resolution for any of them to be affected.
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** "It" and "they/them" indicate that the targets do not need to meet the target requirements at resolution, only when targeted.
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* Cards and effects that state "You can only '''activate''' this card/effect once per turn/Duel" can be [[activate]]d again in the same [[turn]]/[[Duel]] if the activation is [[negate]]d.
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**'''For example:''' "[[Silver's Cry]]", which can only be activated once per turn, and "[[The Seal of Orichalcos]]", which can only be activated once per Duel, can be activated again during the same turn or Duel if another copy had its ''activation'' negated by a card such as "[[Magic Jammer]]", but not if these card are negated by the effect of "[[Number 38: Hope Harbinger Dragon Titanic Galaxy]]" that doesn't negate a card's activation but only its effects before removing it from the field.
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*Cards and effects that state "You can only '''use''' this card/effect once per turn/Duel" cannot be activated again in the same turn/Duel, even if their activation is negated.<ref>[https://tcg.konami-europe.net/judgeforum/forum/viewtopic.php?f=6&t]</ref>
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**'''For example:''' "[[Souleating Oviraptor]]" can only use each of its effects once per ''turn'', while "[[Dotscaper]]" can only use each of its effects once per Duel, even if these monsters' effects are negated by a card such as "[[Solemn Strike]]".
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* For prints released from July 2017 onward, [[Quick Effect]]s of [[Monster Card]]s specifically say "Quick Effect" in their text before the colon.
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** For prints released prior to July 2017, Quick Effects are marked by either the text "during either player's […]" in its [[activation requirement|activation conditions]] or the text "(this is a Quick Effect)" at the end of the effect text. (Despite being printed before July 2017, ''[[Maximum Crisis: Special Edition]]'' uses "(Quick Effect)" to mark them.)<!--Pendulum Evolution, which was printed after MACR-SE, does not use the new wording-->
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* If an effect that Summon states "Immediately after this effect resolves", the Summon of that monster(s) can be negated if the effect resolves as [[Chain Link]] 1 (e.g. "[[Ultimate Offering]]", "[[Advanced Heraldry Art]]").<!--"Evilswarm Kerykeion" (2014-08-28), "Constellar Sombre" (2014-08-28), and "Gemini Summoner" (2016-10-06) do not, despite most other cards doing so at this point-->
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====Conjunctives====
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{| class="wikitable" style="float:right; margin: 1em 0 1em 1em"
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! rowspan="2" scope="col" | Resolved...
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! colspan="3" scope="col" | A or B required?
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|-
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! scope="col" | Neither
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! scope="col" | A
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! scope="col" | Both
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|-
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! scope="row" | Sequentially
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| also, after that
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| then
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| and [...] after that
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|-
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! scope="row" | Simultaneously
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| also
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| and if you do
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| and
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|}
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The conjunctives "'''and'''", "'''and if you do'''", "'''also'''", "'''also, after that'''", and "'''then'''" have specific meanings:<ref name="part7">{{cite web|url=https://yugiohblog.konami.com/articles/?p=4514|title=Problem-Solving Card Text, Part 7: 2012 Update – Conjunction Functions|last=Tewart|first=Kevin|authorlink=Kevin Tewart|publisher=[[Konami]]|date=December 12, 2012}}</ref>
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* In "''Do A''', then''' do B''", B happens after A. These things happen in sequence, not simultaneously. A is required for B, but NOT vice-versa: if A does not happen, then stop; even if B cannot happen, you still do A.<ref name="part7" />
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* In "''Do A '''and''' B''", both A and B happen simultaneously. BOTH A and B are required. If you cannot do both, you do nothing.<ref name="part7" />
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* In "''Do A''', and if you do,''' do B''", both A and B happen simultaneously. A is required for B, but NOT vice-versa: if A does not happen, then stop; even if B cannot happen, you still do A.<ref name="part7" />
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* In "''Do A''', also''' do B''", both A and B happen simultaneously. Neither is required for the other to occur.<ref name="part7" />
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* In "''Do A''', also, after that,''' do B''", B happens after A. These things happen in sequence, not simultaneously. Neither is required for the other to occur.
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For prints released prior to May 2012, while "and" does indicate simultaneity, it gives no indication of dependency. However, "then" indicates both sequentiality and dependency for all prints with Problem-Solving Card Text.<ref name="part4" />
  
 
==Changes==
 
==Changes==
Line 21: Line 88:
 
* "side of the field" → "field" (introduced in ''[[OTS Tournament Pack 1]]'' and ''[[Premium Gold: Infinite Gold]]'')
 
* "side of the field" → "field" (introduced in ''[[OTS Tournament Pack 1]]'' and ''[[Premium Gold: Infinite Gold]]'')
 
* "[[Tuner monster]]" → "Tuner" (introduced in ''[[The Dark Illusion]]'')
 
* "[[Tuner monster]]" → "Tuner" (introduced in ''[[The Dark Illusion]]'')
* "[[Graveyard]]" → "GY" (introduced in ''[[Maximum Crisis: Special Edition]]'')
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* "[[Graveyard]]" → "GY" (introduced in ''[[Maximum Crisis: Special Edition]]'')<!--not used consistently until Battles of Legend: Light's Revenge-->
* "[[Trap Card]]" → "Trap" (introduced in ''[[Maximum Crisis: Special Edition]]'')
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* "[[Trap Card]]" (except when referring to the [[activation]] of a Trap Card) → "Trap" (introduced in ''[[Maximum Crisis: Special Edition]]'')<!--not used consistently until Battles of Legend: Light's Revenge-->
* "[[Spell Card]]" → "Spell" (introduced in ''[[Battles of Legend: Light's Revenge]]'')
+
* "[[Spell Card]]" (except when referring to the activation of a Spell Card) → "Spell" (introduced in ''[[Battles of Legend: Light's Revenge]]'')
 
* "[[Material]]" (by itself) → "material" (introduced on the [[Weekly Shonen Jump July 2017 membership promotional card|''Weekly Shonen Jump'' July 2017 membership promotional card]])
 
* "[[Material]]" (by itself) → "material" (introduced on the [[Weekly Shonen Jump July 2017 membership promotional card|''Weekly Shonen Jump'' July 2017 membership promotional card]])
 +
* "[[zone]]" (by itself) → "Zone" → "zone" (introduced in ''[[Starter Deck: Link Strike]]'')
  
 
===Phrasing===
 
===Phrasing===
 
 
==== Additions ====
 
==== Additions ====
 
* "(except during the [[Damage Step]])" (introduced in ''[[Order of Chaos]]'')
 
* "(except during the [[Damage Step]])" (introduced in ''[[Order of Chaos]]'')
Line 34: Line 101:
 
* "[[possess]]ion" (introduced in ''[[Return of the Duelist]]'')
 
* "[[possess]]ion" (introduced in ''[[Return of the Duelist]]'')
 
* "(min. […])"
 
* "(min. […])"
* "(this is a [[Quick Effect]])"
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* "(this is a [[Quick Effect]])" → "(Quick Effect)" (changed in ''[[Battles of Legend: Light's Revenge]]'')
 
* "Cannot be […] Summoned unless"
 
* "Cannot be […] Summoned unless"
 
* "immediately after this effect [[resolve]]s" (introduced in ''[[Abyss Rising]]'')
 
* "immediately after this effect [[resolve]]s" (introduced in ''[[Abyss Rising]]'')
 
* "(This card is always treated as a/an […] card.)" (introduced in ''[[Battle Pack 2: War of the Giants]]'')
 
* "(This card is always treated as a/an […] card.)" (introduced in ''[[Battle Pack 2: War of the Giants]]'')
 
* "(This card is not treated as a/an […] card.)" (introduced on the Yu-Gi-Oh! Trading Card Game - Card Database with the release of ''[[Destiny Soldiers]]'')
 
* "(This card is not treated as a/an […] card.)" (introduced on the Yu-Gi-Oh! Trading Card Game - Card Database with the release of ''[[Destiny Soldiers]]'')
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* "(if it was there when […])" and "(even if not)" (introduced in ''[[Structure Deck: Wave of Light]]'')
  
 
==== Removals ====
 
==== Removals ====
 
* "(Damage calculation is applied normally)"
 
* "(Damage calculation is applied normally)"
 
* "(without damage calculation)"
 
* "(without damage calculation)"
* "(This Special Summon is treated as a Fusion Summon.)" (introduced in ''[[Cyber Dragon Revolution Structure Deck]]'')<ref name="fusion-excavate">{{cite web|url=https://yugiohblog.konami.com/articles/?p=5771|title=New Rulebook Online & Guide to Changes|last=Tewart|first=Kevin|authorlink=Kevin Tewart|publisher=[[Konami]]|date=December 13, 2013|accessdate=December 21, 2013}}</ref>
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* "(This Special Summon is treated as a Fusion Summon.)" (starting in ''[[Cyber Dragon Revolution Structure Deck]]'')<ref name="fusion-excavate">{{cite web|url=https://yugiohblog.konami.com/articles/?p=5771|title=New Rulebook Online & Guide to Changes|last=Tewart|first=Kevin|authorlink=Kevin Tewart|publisher=[[Konami]]|date=December 13, 2013|accessdate=December 21, 2013}}</ref>
* "-Type" (introduced in ''[[Maximum Crisis: Special Edition]]'').
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* "-Type" (starting in ''[[Maximum Crisis: Special Edition]]'').
  
==== Changes ====
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==== Modifications ====
 
* "[[return]] […] to the top of […] Deck" → "place […] on the top of […] Deck" (introduced in ''[[War of the Giants: Round 2]]'')
 
* "[[return]] […] to the top of […] Deck" → "place […] on the top of […] Deck" (introduced in ''[[War of the Giants: Round 2]]'')
 
* "during battle between this [[attack]]ing card and a [[Defense Position]] [[monster]] […], inflict the difference as Battle Damage to your opponent" → "if this card attacks a Defense Position monster, inflict [[piercing]] battle damage to your opponent"<ref name="part2" />
 
* "during battle between this [[attack]]ing card and a [[Defense Position]] [[monster]] […], inflict the difference as Battle Damage to your opponent" → "if this card attacks a Defense Position monster, inflict [[piercing]] battle damage to your opponent"<ref name="part2" />
 
* "selected as an attack target" → "targeted for an attack"<ref name="part2" />
 
* "selected as an attack target" → "targeted for an attack"<ref name="part2" />
* "attack once again"/"attack twice" → ""make a second attack"
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* "attack once again"/"attack twice" → "make a second attack"
* "still treated as a Trap Card" → "also still a Trap Card"
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** "make 3 attacks" → "make a second and third attack" (changed in ''[[Yu-Gi-Oh! The Dark Side of Dimensions Movie Pack]]'')
 +
* "still treated as a Trap Card" → "also still a Trap Card" → "also still a Trap"  (changed in ''[[Legendary Dragon Decks]]'')
 
* "[[Flip effect|Flip Effects]] are not activated at this time" → "(Flip Effects are not activated at this time)" → "(Flip Effects are not activated)" → "([[Flip monster]]s' effects are not activated)" → "(Flip monsters' effects are not activated at this time)" (changed in ''[[Battle Pack: Epic Dawn]]'', then again in ''[[Battle Pack 3: Monster League]]'', then again in ''[[Astral Pack Six]]'')
 
* "[[Flip effect|Flip Effects]] are not activated at this time" → "(Flip Effects are not activated at this time)" → "(Flip Effects are not activated)" → "([[Flip monster]]s' effects are not activated)" → "(Flip monsters' effects are not activated at this time)" (changed in ''[[Battle Pack: Epic Dawn]]'', then again in ''[[Battle Pack 3: Monster League]]'', then again in ''[[Astral Pack Six]]'')
 
* "This card's name is treated as […] while […]" → "While this card is […], its name is treated as […]" → "This card's name becomes […] while […]" (changed in ''[[Legendary Collection 2: The Duel Academy Years Mega Pack]]'')
 
* "This card's name is treated as […] while […]" → "While this card is […], its name is treated as […]" → "This card's name becomes […] while […]" (changed in ''[[Legendary Collection 2: The Duel Academy Years Mega Pack]]'')
 
* "This card's name is treated as […]." → "(This card's name is always treated as […].)" (introduced in ''[[Legendary Collection 4: Joey's World Mega Pack]]'')
 
* "This card's name is treated as […]." → "(This card's name is always treated as […].)" (introduced in ''[[Legendary Collection 4: Joey's World Mega Pack]]'')
 
* "This card's name is also treated as […]." → "(This card is also always treated as […].)" (introduced in ''[[Dragons of Legend]]'')
 
* "This card's name is also treated as […]." → "(This card is also always treated as […].)" (introduced in ''[[Dragons of Legend]]'')
* "This card cannot be [[Normal Summon]]ed or [[Normal Set|Set]]." → "Cannot be Normal Summoned or Set." → "[[Special Summon Monster|Cannot be Normal Summoned/Set]]." (introduced in ''[[Generation Force]]'', then changed in ''[[Legendary Collection 3: Yugi's World]]'')<ref name="part6" />
+
* "This card cannot be [[Normal Summon]]ed or [[Normal Set|Set]]." → "Cannot be Normal Summoned or Set." → "[[Special Summon Monster|Cannot be Normal Summoned/Set]]." (introduced in ''[[Generation Force]]'', then changed in ''[[Legendary Collection 3: Yugi's World]]'')<ref name="part5" />
* "This card can only be […]" → "[[Semi-Nomi|Must first be […]]]"<ref name="part6" />
+
* "This card can only be […]" → "[[Semi-Nomi|Must first be […]]]"<ref name="part5" />
* "This card cannot be [[Special Summon]]ed except […]" → "[[Nomi|Must be […] and cannot be Special Summoned by other ways]]."<ref name="part6" />
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* "This card cannot be [[Special Summon]]ed except […]" → "[[Nomi|Must be Special Summoned […] and cannot be Special Summoned by other ways]]."<ref name="part5" /> → "Must be Special Summoned […]" (changed in ''[[Battles of Legend: Light's Revenge]]'')
 
* "This monster can only be [[Ritual Summon]]ed with the [[Ritual Spell Card]], […]" → "You can Ritual Summon this card with […]" (introduced in ''[[Hidden Arsenal 5: Steelswarm Invasion]]'')
 
* "This monster can only be [[Ritual Summon]]ed with the [[Ritual Spell Card]], […]" → "You can Ritual Summon this card with […]" (introduced in ''[[Hidden Arsenal 5: Steelswarm Invasion]]'')
 
* "You take no Battle Damage from battles involving this card." → "You take no battle damage from attacks involving this card." (introduced in ''[[Battle Pack 2: War of the Giants]]'')
 
* "You take no Battle Damage from battles involving this card." → "You take no battle damage from attacks involving this card." (introduced in ''[[Battle Pack 2: War of the Giants]]'')
Line 69: Line 138:
 
* "negate its effects"/"its effects are negated" → "it has its effects negated" (introduced in ''[[Rise of the True Dragons Structure Deck]]'')
 
* "negate its effects"/"its effects are negated" → "it has its effects negated" (introduced in ''[[Rise of the True Dragons Structure Deck]]'')
 
* "Cards and effects cannot be activated in response to this effect's activation" → "Neither player can activate cards or effects in response to this effect's activation" (introduced in ''[[Clash of Rebellions]]'')
 
* "Cards and effects cannot be activated in response to this effect's activation" → "Neither player can activate cards or effects in response to this effect's activation" (introduced in ''[[Clash of Rebellions]]'')
 +
* Do A, [and/then] do B. A "lasts until the end of the turn." → Do A "(until the end of this turn)", [and/then] do B. (introduced in ''[[Pendulum Evolution]]'')
 
* "Once per turn, during your opponent's turn" → "Once per opponent's turn" (introduced in ''[[Maximum Crisis: Special Edition]]'')
 
* "Once per turn, during your opponent's turn" → "Once per opponent's turn" (introduced in ''[[Maximum Crisis: Special Edition]]'')
* "during either player's […]" and "(this is a Quick Effect)" → "(Quick Effect)" (introduced in ''[[Maximum Crisis: Special Edition]]'')
+
* "during either player's […]"/"(this is a Quick Effect)" → "(Quick Effect)" (introduced in ''[[Maximum Crisis: Special Edition]]'')
 +
* "1 [[Tuner monster|Tuner]] + […] or more non-Tuner monsters" → "1 Tuner + […]+ non-Tuner monsters" (introduced in ''[[Battles of Legend: Light's Revenge]]'')
 
* "(Xyz Materials attached to that monster also become Xyz Materials on this card.)" → "([[Transfer]] its materials to this card.)" (introduced in ''[[Maximum Crisis: Special Edition]]'')
 
* "(Xyz Materials attached to that monster also become Xyz Materials on this card.)" → "([[Transfer]] its materials to this card.)" (introduced in ''[[Maximum Crisis: Special Edition]]'')
 
* "Cannot be used as an [[Xyz Material]] for an [[Xyz Summon]]." → "Cannot be used as material for an Xyz Summon." (introduced on the [[Weekly Shonen Jump July 2017 membership promotional card|''Weekly Shonen Jump'' July 2017 membership promotional card]])
 
* "Cannot be used as an [[Xyz Material]] for an [[Xyz Summon]]." → "Cannot be used as material for an Xyz Summon." (introduced on the [[Weekly Shonen Jump July 2017 membership promotional card|''Weekly Shonen Jump'' July 2017 membership promotional card]])
 
* "[[detach]] 1 Xyz Material from […]" → "detach 1 material from […]" (introduced on the [[Weekly Shonen Jump July 2017 membership promotional card|''Weekly Shonen Jump'' July 2017 membership promotional card]])
 
* "[[detach]] 1 Xyz Material from […]" → "detach 1 material from […]" (introduced on the [[Weekly Shonen Jump July 2017 membership promotional card|''Weekly Shonen Jump'' July 2017 membership promotional card]])
 +
* "If your opponent [[control]]s a monster and you control no monsters" → "If only your opponent controls a monster" (introduced in ''[[Starter Deck: Link Strike]]'')
 +
* "[…] This effect can only be used once while this card is [[face-up]] on the [[field]]." → "Once while face-up on the field: […]" (introduced in ''[[Code of the Duelist]]'')
 +
* "This card gains […] ATK/DEF" → "Gains […] ATK/DEF"
 +
* "This card can attack your opponent directly" → "This card can attack directly" (introduced in ''[[Circuit Break]]'')
 +
* "[[face-up]] from/on your [[field]]" → "your face-up field" (introduced in ''[[Flames of Destruction]]'')
 +
* "If this card [...]: You can" → "If this card [...], you can:" (introduced in ''[[Chaos Impact]]'')
  
 
=== Names ===
 
=== Names ===
Line 99: Line 176:
 
* "[…/[[Spirit]]]" → "[…/[[Spirit]]/Effect]" (introduced in ''[[Astral Pack Eight]]'')
 
* "[…/[[Spirit]]]" → "[…/[[Spirit]]/Effect]" (introduced in ''[[Astral Pack Eight]]'')
  
{{Double image|center|MysteryShellDragon-MP16-EN-C-1E.png|175|Bitron-YS17-EN-UE-OP.png|175}}
+
{{Double image|center|MysteryShellDragon-MP16-EN-C-1E.png|175|MysteryShellDragon-YS17-EN-C-1E.png|175}}
 
* "[…]" → "[…/[[Normal Monster|Normal]]]" (introduced in ''[[Starter Deck: Link Strike]]'')
 
* "[…]" → "[…/[[Normal Monster|Normal]]]" (introduced in ''[[Starter Deck: Link Strike]]'')
  
===Action structure ===
+
===Text structure===
* [[Activation]] conditions (anything that limits ''when'' or ''how often'' you can activate a card/effect) are now denoted with a '''colon''' " ''':''' ".<ref name="part3">{{cite web|url=https://yugiohblog.konami.com/articles/?p=2947|title=Problem-Solving Card Text, Part 3: Conditions, Activations, and Effects|last=Tewart|first=Kevin|authorlink=Kevin Tewart|publisher=[[Konami]]|date=June 1, 2011|accessdate=July 28, 2011}}</ref>
+
* The phrase "in the [[Graveyard|GY]]" (previously "in the Graveyard") indicates that the properties of the card must be checked in the GY (e.g. "[[Armory Arm]]"). As such, if the card is not in the GY at that time, there is no longer a reference point and the effect disappears.
* Activation functions (anything that happens when you activate a card/effect, includes things like ''[[cost]]s'' and ''[[target]]ing'') are now denoted with a '''semicolon''' " ''';''' ".<ref name="part3" />
 
::Effects that starts a [[Chain]] always have a colon or semicolon. The activation of a [[Spell Card|Spell]] and [[Trap Card]] always starts a Chain.<ref name="part3" />
 
* Built-In [[Special Summon]]s (other than [[Synchro Summon|Synchro]], [[Xyz Summon|Xyz]], or [[Pendulum Summon|Pendulum]]) are now denoted by '''parentheses''' " '''()''' " stating the location from which the monster can be Special Summoned.<ref name="part6">{{cite web|url=https://yugiohblog.konami.com/articles/?p=3111|title=Problem-Solving Card Text, Part 5: Special Summons|last=Tewart|first=Kevin|authorlink=Kevin Tewart|publisher=[[Konami]]|date=July 27, 2011|accessdate=July 28, 2011}}</ref>
 
{| class="wikitable" style="float: right; margin: 1em 0 1em 1em;"
 
|-
 
! scope="col" rowspan="2" | Resolved…
 
! scope="col" colspan="3" | A or B required?
 
|-
 
! scope="col" | Neither
 
! scope="col" | A
 
! scope="col" | Both
 
|-
 
! scope="row" | Sequentially
 
| also, after that
 
| then
 
|
 
|-
 
! scope="row" | Simultaneously
 
| also
 
| and if you do
 
| and
 
|-
 
|}
 
* The conjunctives "'''and'''", "'''and if you do'''", "'''also'''", "'''also, after that'''" and "'''then'''" have specific meanings.
 
:* In "''Do A''', then''' do B''", B happens after A. These things happen in sequence, not simultaneously. A is required for B, but NOT vice-versa. If A does not happen, then stop. If B cannot happen, you still do A.<ref name="part7">{{cite web|url=https://yugiohblog.konami.com/articles/?p=4514|title=Problem-Solving Card Text, Part 7: 2012 Update – Conjunction Functions|last=Tewart|first=Kevin|authorlink=Kevin Tewart|publisher=[[Konami]]|date=December 12, 2012}}</ref>
 
:* In "''Do A '''and''' B''", both A and B happen simultaneously. BOTH A and B are required. If you cannot do both, then you do nothing.<ref name="part7" />
 
:* In "''Do A''', and if you do,''' do B''", both A and B happen simultaneously. A is required for B, but NOT vice-versa. If A does not happen, then stop. If B cannot happen, you still do A.<ref name="part7" />
 
:* In "''Do A''', also''' do B''", both A and B happen simultaneously. Neither is required for the other to occur.<ref name="part7" />
 
:* In "''Do A''', also, after that,''' do B''", B happens after A. These things happen in sequence, not simultaneously. Neither is required for the other to occur.
 
* Cards with bulleted effects (●) that can be resolved in the same [[Chain Link]] specify whether they resolve simultaneously or sequentially (if sequentially, effects are applied in the order they are listed). In these cases, each effect activated resolves independent of the success of the other(s).
 
:* The text "in sequence" indicates that the bulleted effects are applied sequentially (e.g. "[[Gravekeeper's Oracle]]", "[[Ryko, Lightsworn Hunter]]").
 
:* The text "(simultaneously)" indicates that the bulleted effects are applied simultaneously (e.g. "[[Kunai with Chain]]").
 
* The terms "that target" or "those targets" and "it" or "they" have specific meanings in the resolution of the effect.
 
:* "That target" and "those targets" indicate that the targets must still meet the target requirements at resolution.
 
::* "Both targets"/"Both those targets" and "all three targets" indicate that all targets must still meet the target requirements at resolution for any of them to be affected.
 
:* "It" and "they" indicate that the targets do not need to meet the target requirements at resolution, only when targeted.<ref name="part5">{{cite web|url=https://yugiohblog.konami.com/articles/?p=2962|title=Problem-Solving Card Text, Part 4: The Clues on Your Cards|last=Tewart|first=Kevin|authorlink=Kevin Tewart|publisher=[[Konami]]|date=June 1, 2011|accessdate=September 13, 2011}}</ref>
 
* Conditions other than target requirements that have to be met during both activation and resolution are specifically noted in a separate sentence after the effect sentence (e.g. "[[Zombie Master]]", "[[Goe Goe the Gallant Ninja]]").
 
* The phrase "in the [[Graveyard]]" indicates that the properties of the card must be checked in the Graveyard (e.g. "[[Armory Arm]]"). As such, if the card is not in the Graveyard at that time, there is no longer a reference point and the effect disappears.
 
* Any effect that has "during either player's […]" is a [[Quick Effect]]. Some monsters, and all monsters with Quick Effects printed from ''[[Maximum Crisis: Special Edition]]'' onward, indicate in their card text that the effect is a Quick Effect (e.g. "[[Swift Scarecrow]]" and "[[Decode Talker]]").
 
 
* Cards that can be activated in response to the activation of either a card or a card effect include "when a card or effect is activated" in their timing (e.g. "[[Stardust Dragon]]").
 
* Cards that can be activated in response to the activation of either a card or a card effect include "when a card or effect is activated" in their timing (e.g. "[[Stardust Dragon]]").
* Cards and effects that state "you can only ''activate'' this card/effect once per turn/Duel" can be [[activate]]d again in the same [[turn]]/[[Duel]] if the activation is [[negate]]d. Cards and effects that state "you can only ''use'' this card/effect once per turn/Duel" cannot be activated again in the same turn/Duel, even if negated.<ref>[https://tcg.konami-europe.net/judgeforum/forum/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=2262&sid=10004331bd8ea86e84449b167fb0533b Konami Judge Program Forum]: The Seal of Orichalcos - Negated Activation</ref>
 
 
* Effects that prevent monsters from being attacked but cannot prevent the opponent from [[Direct attack|attacking directly]] specifically note this (e.g. "[[The Legendary Fisherman]]"). However, not all cards that prevent monsters from being attacked allow the opponent to attack directly (e.g. "[[Command Knight]]").
 
* Effects that prevent monsters from being attacked but cannot prevent the opponent from [[Direct attack|attacking directly]] specifically note this (e.g. "[[The Legendary Fisherman]]"). However, not all cards that prevent monsters from being attacked allow the opponent to attack directly (e.g. "[[Command Knight]]").
 
* Effects that prevent Summoning but still allow [[Set]]ting note this (e.g. "[[Stray Lambs]]").
 
* Effects that prevent Summoning but still allow [[Set]]ting note this (e.g. "[[Stray Lambs]]").
 
* [[Flip monster]]s which have effects other than a [[Flip effect]] have a line break between the end of the Flip Effect and the start of the other effect(s) (e.g. "[[Night Assailant]]").
 
* [[Flip monster]]s which have effects other than a [[Flip effect]] have a line break between the end of the Flip Effect and the start of the other effect(s) (e.g. "[[Night Assailant]]").
* There is now a line break before bullet points (e.g. "[[Wind-Up Shark]]").
+
* There is now usually a line break before bullet points (e.g. "[[Wind-Up Shark]]").
* Cards and effects that inherently [[Summon]] a monster now note that the monster is Summoned immediately after the card or effect [[resolve]]s to make it clear that these Summons can be [[negate]]d if performed as [[Chain Link]] 1 (e.g. "[[Ultimate Offering]]", "[[Advanced Heraldry Art]]").
 
  
 
==References==
 
==References==

Revision as of 23:20, 25 October 2019

"Tragoedia" is an example of a card already reprinted with Problem-Solving Card Text. Left is the pre-PSCT Shonen Jump Vol. 7, Issue 9 print. Right is the PSCT Battle Pack: Epic Dawn reprint.

Problem-Solving Card Text (often abbreviated PSCT) is a method of writing card text used for prints released from July 8, 2011 onward. The purpose of Problem-Solving Card Text is to specify card effects to the point that most situations can be resolved by logically interpreting the card text.[1]

It was announced by Kevin Tewart through a series of blog posts to Konami's Yu-Gi-Oh! 5D's TCG Strategy Site.[1][2] It was introduced to Booster Packs with the release of Generation Force[3] and Starter Decks with the release of Starter Deck: Dawn of the Xyz. Reissues of older products, such as Duelist Pack: Kaiba from the Silver Dragon Value Box, often use Problem-Solving Card Text.

Legendary Collection 2: The Duel Academy Years Mega Pack was in part created to reprint many old cards with the new text style (including the "HERO" monsters).[4]

Interpretation

Problem-Solving Card Text uses specific words with very particular meanings in the context of gameplay. How to interpret the text is important to understanding how to apply card text to the game.

This interpretation can only be applied for cards that use Problem-Solving Card Text. Cards that were printed with earlier text may use some of the same terms or structures, but this does not necessarily mean that they work as if they were Problem-Solving Card Text.

Text structure

  • All card effects that make a Chain Link include a colon " : " or a semicolon " ; " somewhere in their text (possibly both). If a card effect does not use either, it does not make a Chain Link.[5]
    • The activation of a Spell or Trap Card always makes a Chain Link, but its effect that resolves with the card itself (if any) does not necessarily use a colon or semicolon.[5] This effect is usually the first effect listed in the card's text.
  • Text before the colon " : " describes activation conditions (limits on when or how often a card or effect can be activated).[6][5] These conditions only need to be met when the card is activated.[7]
    • Conditions other than target requirements that have to be met during both activation and resolution are specifically noted in a separate sentence after the effect sentence (e.g. "Zombie Master", "Treeborn Frog").[7]
  • Text before the semicolon " ; " (but after the colon, if any) describes anything that happens when that card or effect is activated (such as costs and targeting).[6][5]
  • Cards with bulleted effects (●) that resolve in the same Chain Link specify whether they resolve simultaneously or sequentially (if sequentially, effects are applied in the order they are listed). In these cases, each effect activated resolves independent of the success of the other(s).

Terminology and phrasing

  • The terms "that target" or "those targets" and "it" or "they/them" have specific meanings in the resolution of the effect.[7]
    • "That target" and "those targets" indicate that targets must still meet the target requirements at resolution to be affected. "Both (those) targets" and "all three targets" indicate that all targets must still meet the target requirements at resolution for any of them to be affected.
    • "It" and "they/them" indicate that the targets do not need to meet the target requirements at resolution, only when targeted.
  • Cards and effects that state "You can only activate this card/effect once per turn/Duel" can be activated again in the same turn/Duel if the activation is negated.
    • For example: "Silver's Cry", which can only be activated once per turn, and "The Seal of Orichalcos", which can only be activated once per Duel, can be activated again during the same turn or Duel if another copy had its activation negated by a card such as "Magic Jammer", but not if these card are negated by the effect of "Number 38: Hope Harbinger Dragon Titanic Galaxy" that doesn't negate a card's activation but only its effects before removing it from the field.
  • Cards and effects that state "You can only use this card/effect once per turn/Duel" cannot be activated again in the same turn/Duel, even if their activation is negated.[9]
    • For example: "Souleating Oviraptor" can only use each of its effects once per turn, while "Dotscaper" can only use each of its effects once per Duel, even if these monsters' effects are negated by a card such as "Solemn Strike".
  • For prints released from July 2017 onward, Quick Effects of Monster Cards specifically say "Quick Effect" in their text before the colon.
    • For prints released prior to July 2017, Quick Effects are marked by either the text "during either player's […]" in its activation conditions or the text "(this is a Quick Effect)" at the end of the effect text. (Despite being printed before July 2017, Maximum Crisis: Special Edition uses "(Quick Effect)" to mark them.)

Conjunctives

Resolved... A or B required?
Neither A Both
Sequentially also, after that then and [...] after that
Simultaneously also and if you do and

The conjunctives "and", "and if you do", "also", "also, after that", and "then" have specific meanings:[10]

  • In "Do A, then do B", B happens after A. These things happen in sequence, not simultaneously. A is required for B, but NOT vice-versa: if A does not happen, then stop; even if B cannot happen, you still do A.[10]
  • In "Do A and B", both A and B happen simultaneously. BOTH A and B are required. If you cannot do both, you do nothing.[10]
  • In "Do A, and if you do, do B", both A and B happen simultaneously. A is required for B, but NOT vice-versa: if A does not happen, then stop; even if B cannot happen, you still do A.[10]
  • In "Do A, also do B", both A and B happen simultaneously. Neither is required for the other to occur.[10]
  • In "Do A, also, after that, do B", B happens after A. These things happen in sequence, not simultaneously. Neither is required for the other to occur.

For prints released prior to May 2012, while "and" does indicate simultaneity, it gives no indication of dependency. However, "then" indicates both sequentiality and dependency for all prints with Problem-Solving Card Text.[7]

Changes

Terminology

Phrasing

Additions

Removals

Modifications

Names

Type/Ability line

Text structure

  • The phrase "in the GY" (previously "in the Graveyard") indicates that the properties of the card must be checked in the GY (e.g. "Armory Arm"). As such, if the card is not in the GY at that time, there is no longer a reference point and the effect disappears.
  • Cards that can be activated in response to the activation of either a card or a card effect include "when a card or effect is activated" in their timing (e.g. "Stardust Dragon").
  • Effects that prevent monsters from being attacked but cannot prevent the opponent from attacking directly specifically note this (e.g. "The Legendary Fisherman"). However, not all cards that prevent monsters from being attacked allow the opponent to attack directly (e.g. "Command Knight").
  • Effects that prevent Summoning but still allow Setting note this (e.g. "Stray Lambs").
  • Flip monsters which have effects other than a Flip effect have a line break between the end of the Flip Effect and the start of the other effect(s) (e.g. "Night Assailant").
  • There is now usually a line break before bullet points (e.g. "Wind-Up Shark").

References

External links