New players

Stack and Priority

The stack is the heart of interaction. Learn how responses resolve.

Core Rules

  • Spells and abilities go on the stack.
  • Last in, first out: the newest item resolves first.
  • Players pass priority around the table.
  • If everyone passes, the top item resolves.

Example

  1. Player A casts a spell.
  2. Player B responds with an instant.
  3. Player A responds again.
  4. Resolve in reverse order.
Practice in the Stack Visualizer

Stack Terms

Priority

Permission to cast a spell or activate an ability.

Respond

Add another spell or ability to the stack before the top resolves.

Resolve

The top stack item finishes and its effect happens.

Active player

The player whose turn it is.

Practice responses with the stack visualizer to see the order.

Open Stack Visualizer
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