Explanation of creatures, instants, enchantments, and sorcery spells.

Creatures are summonable weapons to be used defensively and offensively against an opponent.  In most instances, they can only be summoned during the main players turn (i.e., the turn where one person can attack can summon the creatures prior to or after the attack phase).   Their power and defense range from 0/0 (X/Y) to infinite.  The "X" represents the power, whereas the "Y" represents the defense.  When the defense reaches 0, the creatures gets placed into the graveyard (unless otherwise noted by a spell on the battlefield).  Relative mana cost can also range from low level creatures costing substantially less than more powerful creatures. Here are a couple of examples:

       


Instants can be placed onto the battlefield at any given moment.  So, these should be strategically used offensively and defensively.  Their mana cost can range from low to high.

Sorcery spells can be placed only during the player who is in the attacking phase.  Their mana cost can also range from low to high.  Unless otherwise noted, the spells are not capable of being cast at any point like an instant spell would.  These spells can be extremely devastating if used correctly.

      

Enchantments are summonable spells that remain on the battlefield until destroyed.  Certain instants, sorceries, or static abilities (i.e., abilities of creatures when they come into the battlefield or leave the battlefield) can target enchantments.  Enchantment auras are placed directly onto a creature, whereas enchantments are placed onto the battlefield (this type can't be targeted by creatures, but the first one can go into the graveyard if the creature is killed that the aura is attached to).

     

Artifacts are also spells that be placed directly onto a creature (i.e., called "equipment") to increase or decrease power and defense, or placed onto the battlefield to be tapped (i.e., use it's ability) at any given moment).  Here are some examples:

     


Before I end my rant for today, should there be any questions...feel free to comment.  I'm also posting an embedded video on card types from more experienced players.