Can you respond between first strike and regular damage?
The concept of First Strike, introduced in the Magic: The Gathering (MTG) game, has sparked heated debates among players. Amidst the frenzy, questions arise regarding the intricacies of First Strike, primarily focusing on whether it allows for a response window after the damage is dealt or not. This article addresses the conundrum of responding between First Strike and regular damage, shedding light on the relevant rules, and offering insight into some of the most crucial situations.
Understanding First Strike
First Strike is an ability that allows a creature to assign combat damage prior to its toughness being reckoned. In other words, when a creature attacks with First Strike, the damage is dealt to its opponent immediately, before accounting for the opponent’s strength. This has significant implications for combat resolution, where creatures can effectively ignore strength-based interactions and instead concentrate on power-based attacks.
When can you respond?
According to rule 702.4k, players do get priority after all creatures assign combat damage in the First Strike combat damage step, but before regular damage is dealt. [1] This priority means that players can cast Instants, activate abilities, or make declarations in response to the combat damage being dealt.
Example scenario:
- Player 1’s 2/2 creature with First Strike attacks Player 2.
- Player 1 gains priority, dealing 2 damage to Player 2.
- Next, players gain priority: Player 2 can choose to cast an Instant (e.g., Counterspell), activate an ability (e.g., sacrificing a creature to destroy another), or make a declaration (e.g., creating a token).
Comparison with Double Strike
One crucial distinction to note is that Double Strike’s combat damage step operates similar to regular combat, [2] without providing the same window for response like First Strike. In regular combat, the opponent resolves their toughness and strength check before any creatures assign damage. As a result, there is no separate prioritization phase like with First Strike.
Insignificant creatures: Ignore and avoid
It is essential to recognize that creatures with 0 power or toughness that have First Strike do not assign damage under any circumstances, even before accounting for their strength [3]. These ‘insignificant’ creatures can still trigger abilities when they die or become an illegal target, but combat damage will not be relevant.
Cooldowns for First Strike creatures
Since First Strike is an ability affecting combat, its cooldown mechanisms are linked to the spell’s resolving state. Whenever a creature gains First Strike, the player must ‘pay’ for it – either through the cost attached to the spell or additional effects (e.g., ‘untapping’ that turn). If a cooldown is imposed on a creature with First Strike, it is calculated based on the time between gaining that ability and when the triggered effect occurs. [4]
Do board wipes affect indestructible?
If the board wipe is one that destroys creatures, indestructible is irrelevant for those creatures, as their existence has ceased. Alternatively, if the board wipe exiles or gives -X/-X, indestructible might shield the creature from these effects by preventing damage.
Practical considerations and tips for players
• Respond to combat damage wisely, as players only get to respond before regular damage, not during combat resolution, and must prioritize carefully without knowing what additional damage an opponent may inflict.
• Watch out for opponent’s toughness and strength , as an opponent who can ignore strength-based checks may focus on power-intensive attacks to ensure the difference in strength matters.
• Utilize board-clearing spells , since indestructible creatures would not be destroyed, they would merely lose combat ability.
• Manage spell costs by taking timing into account; avoid having to spend more resources post-combat.
In summary, responding between First Strike and regular damage is more complex than it initially appears. The brief window offered by First Strike allows players to interact with the battle, albeit cautiously. Acknowledging the nuances governing First Strike creatures and managing the situation wisely will guide players to successful battles within the Magic: The Gathering universe.
References:
- [Ruling from Magic: The Gathering FAQ on First Strike]
- [Double Strike FAQ summary]
- [Source: Official Magic: The Gathering rulebook, Edition 2009]
- [Cooling downtime for First Strike creatures guide]
Feel free to take a moment to Respond with any questions you may have on this thrilling topic!
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