Creature tokens are considered permanents in Magic: The Gathering. When a spell or ability creates a creature token, it enters the battlefield as a permanent. Tokens have many of the same characteristics as regular cards, such as power and toughness, abilities, and creature types. However, there are some key differences between tokens and regular cards.
One important distinction is that tokens are not represented by an actual card with a casting cost. Instead, they are usually represented by a token card or a placeholder object like a coin or dice. This is because tokens are created by the effects of spells and abilities, rather than being cast from a specific zone like the hand. For example, a card like “Raise the Alarm” creates two 1/1 white Soldier creature tokens. These tokens are not cards themselves, but they still exist as permanents on the battlefield.
Tokens also have a unique quality in that they typically cease to exist when they leave the battlefield. Unlike regular cards, which can be returned to hand, graveyard, or exile zones, tokens generally cannot be moved to any zone other than the battlefield. This means that once a token is destroyed, exiled, or otherwise removed from the battlefield, it simply ceases to exist. This is an important consideration when playing with or against token-producing cards, as it affects the overall strategy and interaction between players.
It is worth noting that there are some exceptions to the rule that tokens cannot leave the battlefield. Certain cards or abilities may allow tokens to be flickered or temporarily removed from the game, but these effects are relatively rare and specific. In most cases, tokens are treated as temporary creatures that exist solely for the duration of the spell or ability that created them.
In my personal experience, tokens have been a fun and dynamic aspect of gameplay. They can provide additional creatures to bolster your forces, act as chump blockers to protect your life total, or synergize with other cards to create powerful combinations. Tokens also add an element of unpredictability to the game, as players must constantly assess the board state and adapt their strategy accordingly.
Creature tokens are indeed considered permanents in Magic: The Gathering. While they differ from regular cards in certain respects, such as not being represented by a physical card and typically ceasing to exist when they leave the battlefield, tokens still function as creatures with their own unique characteristics and abilities. They add depth and variety to the game, providing players with additional tactical options and strategic considerations.