By default, each blocking creature may only block a single attacking creature. This is established in CR 509.1, which governs the declaration of blockers. A player assigns each of their eligible creatures to block at most one attacker during the declare blockers step.
To block more than one attacker simultaneously, a creature needs a specific keyword or ability that explicitly grants that permission. The most common example is the bands keyword (CR 702.22), which allows creatures to band together, but no standard ability simply says "this creature may block multiple attackers" without special rules text.
It is worth noting that multiple creatures can block a single attacker — that is the reverse situation, and it is always allowed (CR 509.1). The restriction only applies to one creature trying to block more than one attacker at once.
Example: Your opponent attacks with a 2/2 and a 3/3. You control a 4/4 with no abilities. You may assign your 4/4 to block only one of those attackers — say the 3/3. The 2/2 is unblocked and its combat damage will be dealt to you normally.
If you want one creature to block multiple attackers, look for abilities like Vanguard of Brimaz-style rules text or older mechanics like banding that explicitly override the default single-block rule (CR 509.1, 702.22).
Unofficial fan resource — not affiliated with or endorsed by Wizards of the Coast. Answers are AI-generated estimates grounded in the Comprehensive Rules and are not a substitute for an official judge. Verify anything match-critical.