Ground and space in SWU: attacks across arenas
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A unit normally attacks an enemy unit in its own arena or the opponent's base. Ground and space separate unit combat; they do not create two different bases. Damage effects and abilities granting unusual attacks need their own wording checked.
Source · Ground and space in SWU: attacks across arenas.
Map the board before choosing a target
Put ground units in one row and space units in another, with bases outside both rows. Identify arenas from the cards rather than their artwork. A winged illustration does not establish that a unit belongs in space.
On a narrow table, rows can be closer together while remaining clearly identified. Mixing every unit into one group encourages attacks that look plausible but have illegal targets. The layout is a reading aid, not an extra game rule.
Check attacker and target separately
Consider a ground unit ready to attack. Without an exception, an enemy ground unit can be a combat target; an enemy space unit cannot. The opponent's base may be attacked, subject to the relevant restrictions.
| Attacker | Proposed target | Ordinary check |
|---|---|---|
| Ground unit | Enemy ground unit | Same arena; check other restrictions |
| Ground unit | Enemy space unit | Different arena; requires specific permission |
| Space unit | Enemy space unit | Same arena; check other restrictions |
| Space unit | Opponent's base | Possible; check attack restrictions |
The table does not make every same-arena attack automatically legal. The attacker's availability, relevant abilities and other game conditions still matter.
Check Sentinel against the arena
Sentinel restricts attack choices in its arena. Do not turn a Sentinel unit into a universal barrier for both ground and space merely because its card is physically close to the base.
For practice, put an opposing Sentinel unit in ground and one of your units in space. Record their arenas before checking the ability and applicable restrictions. That order prevents a conclusion based solely on seeing the word Sentinel somewhere on the board.
If a card adds an exception or unusual permission, recheck the situation with its text. This guide explains the ordinary arena map rather than replacing every card's wording.
Dealing damage is not always attacking
An event or ability may instruct you to deal damage to a unit. That is not automatically an attack by whichever unit appears in its illustration or controls the effect. Its wording may allow a different set of targets.
Suppose a hypothetical effect specifies “an enemy unit” without limiting arena. Check that effect's target rules; do not independently append “in my arena.” If it does restrict arena, cost or another characteristic, include that restriction.
Equally, not every attack-target restriction should be imported into every damage effect. First identify the action as an attack, event or ability. Then check the relevant conditions. This is more precise than describing every damage instruction as a “ground shot.”
Exceptions require actual text
Some cards permit different attacks. Official introductory material uses Strafing Gunship as an example interacting with both arenas. Its exception does not extend to every ship or every airborne-looking unit.
Identify what an unusual permission allows, which conditions it requires and which restrictions still apply. Before purchasing a card for this purpose, consult its current text rather than a shortened marketplace description.
Test arena coverage through games
Sorting your units by arena can reveal that a practice hand has no ordinary answer to one zone. That does not establish a universal ground-to-space ratio for every deck. Your base, Leader and other effects can change the plan.
Test one situation with the opponent developing only space and another with only ground. Record your legal options, including attacking the base or using appropriate effects. High power alone does not let a unit fight every threat.
Frequently asked questions
Can space units attack the base?
Yes. The arena separation alone does not prohibit it. Check the other applicable attack restrictions.
Must a damage effect use the attacker's arena?
First establish whether the action is an attack. For an effect, follow its actual target wording and conditions.
Does Sentinel automatically cover both arenas?
No. Check its ordinary scope by arena; an exception needs rules or specific card text.