Last In, First Out

The Stack

Spells resolve in reverse — the last cast is the first to land.

The Stack
Lightning Bolt
Top — resolves next
Cast adds to top·Resolves top first

Sequence

  1. 1Player A casts Lightning Bolt targeting Player B (3 dmg).
  2. 2Player B responds with Counterspell targeting Lightning Bolt.
  3. 3Player A responds with Red Elemental Blast targeting Counterspell.
  4. 4Stack resolves top to bottom.
  5. 5Red Elemental Blast resolves: Counterspell is countered.
  6. 6Counterspell is removed without effect.
  7. 7Lightning Bolt resolves: Player B takes 3 damage.

Priority

Players take turns receiving priority. The active player gets it first each step. You may only cast spells or activate abilities while you have priority.

LIFO Resolution

The stack is last-in, first-out. The most recently cast spell or activated ability resolves first.

Pass to Resolve

When all players pass priority in succession with no spells or abilities being added, the top of the stack resolves.

Counterspell on your spell

Counterspell goes on top. You still have priority and can cast another spell or ability before it resolves.

Triggered ability

The trigger goes on the stack and both players receive priority before it resolves. Either player can respond.

Two spells in a row

The second spell goes on top of the first. Your second spell resolves first, then your first spell resolves.