Level 4 ATK and DEF conventions
The ATK and DEF of a Level 4 or lower monster are limited by two rules: the "2000 ATK Rule" and the "2300 DEF Rule". These rules states that for a Level 4 monster to have an ATK or DEF equal to or higher than these values, it must have some kind of negative effect or other restriction, such as being a Nomi monster. For example, "Meklord Emperor Wisel" is a Level 1 Monster Card that has 2500 ATK and DEF; however, it cannot be Normal Summoned or Set.
Contents
Rule of 2000 ATK
The "Rule of 2000 ATK" states that if a Monster Card has 2000 or more ATK, it must have some negative effect or other restriction.
Two exceptions to this rule are "Gene-Warped Warwolf" and "Alexandrite Dragon". With their release, they essentially rendered other 2000 ATK cards with negative effects (like "Panther Warrior") useless.
There are currently 0 Level 4 or lower monsters with 2000 ATK or more in the TCG/OCG, but most have negatives effects or other restrictions.
Level 4 or lower Monster Cards with 2000 ATK or more
Rule of 2300 DEF
The "Rule of 2300 DEF" states that if a Monster Card has 2300 or more DEF, it must have some negative effect or other restriction.
The original limit was 2000, but since many Level 4 or lower Monster Cards have 2000 or more DEF, it has been elevated to 2300. Some monsters with 2000 or more DEF (but less than 2300 DEF) even have positive effects, such as "Gear Golem the Moving Fortress" and "Gladiator Beast Hoplomus".
There are currently 0 Level 4 or lower monsters with 2300 DEF or more in the TCG/OCG, but they all have negatives effects or other restrictions.
