What should a judge do if they witness a player cheating?

When a judge witnesses a player cheating, the appropriate course of action is to address the issue according to the rules. This ensures that the integrity of the game is maintained and that all players are treated fairly.

Judges are responsible for upholding the rules and ensuring a fair environment for everyone involved in the tournament. In instances of cheating, the judge will typically investigate the situation, gather relevant information, and apply the appropriate penalties as prescribed by the Magic: The Gathering rules and policies. This might include issuing warnings, game losses, or disqualifications if the behavior is severe enough.

Addressing the issue according to the rules reinforces the importance of fair play and helps deter future incidents, promoting a healthier gaming community. Other options such as ignoring the issue could undermine the fairness expected in competitive play, instant disqualification may not allow for due process, and reporting it to other players could lead to a breakdown in trust and a negative atmosphere within the game.