When do I earn points from controlling a Battlefield?

You earn points from controlling a battlefield in two ways: Conquer and Hold.

According to Rule 446, these are the two methods for scoring:

  • Conquer: You gain a point immediately when you take control of a battlefield that you have not already scored this turn. This happens after combat or a showdown resolves and you establish control (Rule 446.1 and 444.2.b).
  • Hold: You gain a point if you maintain control of a battlefield during your Beginning Phase (Rule 446.2).

Important Nuances:

  • Once per turn: You can only score each battlefield once per turn, regardless of the method used (Rule 447).
  • Timing: Conquer points are scored immediately when control is established during your turn. Hold points are scored specifically at the beginning of your turn.
  • Teammate Restriction: In team play, if your teammate controls a battlefield during your Beginning Phase, that battlefield is disqualified from being scored by your team that turn (Rule 446.1.a and 466.8.b).