What Triggers Go On the Stack First?
In the fast-paced world of Magic: The Gathering, it’s essential to understand the intricacies of trigger timing to make strategic decisions during gameplay. Triggers, which are abilities that activate when certain conditions are met, can be a crucial element in determining the outcome of a game. This article will delve into the topic of triggers and explore which ones go on the stack first.
Simultaneous Triggers
When multiple players have triggers that activate at the same time, the active player puts their triggers on the stack first, followed by the non-active player’s triggers. This is known as the active player’s priority, which is a fundamental concept in Magic gameplay. The active player’s priority refers to the order in which players are permitted to take actions, including playing cards, casting spells, and activating abilities. In the case of simultaneous triggers, this priority is reversed, with the non-active player’s triggers resolving last.
Delayed Triggers
Another type of trigger is the delayed trigger, which is set in motion by a specific event, such as a creature’s death or a sacrifice. Delayed triggers are placed on the stack at the end of the turn, usually during the cleanup phase. This ensures that the trigger resolves after any other triggers or abilities have finished resolving.
ETB (Enter the Battlefield) Triggers
ETB triggers, also known as ENTER THE BATTLEFIELD abilities, are activated when a player’s permanent, such as a creature or planeswalker, enters the battlefield. These triggers are placed on the stack before the abilities of other permanents that enter the battlefield at the same time.
LTG (Leave the Battlefield) Triggers
LTG triggers, also known as LEAVE THE BATTLEFIELD abilities, are activated when a permanent is sent to the graveyard or sacrifices. These triggers are placed on the stack after other permanent’s abilities have resolved.
Phasing Triggers
Phase triggers are a specific type of trigger that activates when a phase begins or ends. Examples of phase triggers include abilities that trigger when a player’s turn ends or when the combat phase begins. Phase triggers are placed on the stack before any other triggers that may be activating during the same phase.
Cascade and Other Non-ETB/Non-LTB Triggers
Cascade, also known as Cascade triggered ability, is a type of triggered ability that activates when a spell deals damage to a player. Cascade is an example of a non-ETB/non-LTB trigger, meaning it does not occur specifically when a permanent enters or leaves the battlefield. Non-ETB/non-LTB triggers are placed on the stack when they are activated, which may or may not be at the same time as other triggers.
Trigger Timing Overview
Here’s a summary of when different types of triggers go on the stack:
| Trigger Type | Priority |
|---|---|
| Simultaneous Triggers | Non-active player, then active player |
| Delayed Triggers | End of turn, usually during cleanup |
| ETB Triggers | Before other permanents’ ETB abilities |
| LTG Triggers | After other permanents’ LTG abilities |
| Phasing Triggers | Before other triggers during the same phase |
| Non-ETB/non-LTB Triggers | Varies (e.g., Cascade triggers during the combat phase) |
Understanding the timing of triggers is essential in Magic: The Gathering. By learning which triggers go on the stack first, you can make more informed decisions during gameplay and improve your chances of emerging victorious.