Does Copying a Spell Count as Casting MTG?
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
Copying a spell in Magic: The Gathering (MTG) does not count as casting the spell, as the copied spell is put directly onto the stack without being cast, and therefore does not generate storm copies or trigger cast triggers. The distinction between copying and casting is crucial in MTG, as it affects how various abilities and triggers interact with the copied spell.
Understanding Copying and Casting
To delve deeper into the relationship between copying and casting, it’s essential to explore the nuances of these concepts in the context of MTG.
Related FAQs
1. What is the difference between copying and casting a spell?
Copying a spell means putting a copy of it onto the stack, whereas casting a spell involves taking it from its current zone, putting it on the stack, and paying its costs.
2. Does replicating a spell count as casting?
No, replicating a spell does not count as casting, as the replicated spell is a copy of the original spell, and copying does not trigger cast triggers or generate storm copies.
3. Can you kick a copied spell?
Yes, if a kicked spell is copied, the copy is also kicked, as kicker costs are part of the spell’s configuration.
4. Does countering a spell stop cast triggers?
Countering a spell can prevent cast triggers from resolving, but it depends on the specific trigger and counter spell being used.
5. Does creating a copy have summoning sickness?
It depends on the type of token created; if it’s a creature, it will have summoning sickness, but if it’s a non-creature permanent, it won’t.
6. Does copying a spell trigger storm?
No, copying a spell with storm will not trigger storm, as storm is a cast trigger that only triggers when the spell is cast.
7. How does copying spells work?
Copying a spell involves putting a copy of it onto the stack, which can be done through various abilities and effects in the game.
8. Does copying a creature spell count as creating a token?
Yes, a copy of a creature spell becomes a token as it resolves, with the token having the characteristics of the spell.
9. Does playing a card count as casting?
Playing a card can count as casting if the card is a spell, but playing a land does not count as casting, as lands are not spells.
10. Does playing a land count as casting a spell?
No, playing a land does not count as casting a spell, as lands are not considered spells in MTG.
11. Is double strike the same as first strike?
No, double strike and first strike are different abilities, with double strike allowing a creature to deal combat damage twice and first strike allowing it to deal combat damage before non-first strike creatures.
12. What is the alternative of copying?
Duplicates, facsimiles, replicas, and reproductions are all alternatives to copying, each with slightly different connotations and uses.
13. What counts as a replicate?
A replicate refers to an exact copy of something, often used in the context of experiments or designs.
14. Can mimics cast spells?
Yes, mimics are capable of casting illusion-based spells to lure in prey.
15. Can you cast a spell and then move?
Yes, you can cast a spell as a standard action and then take a move action, or vice versa, but you cannot move, cast, and then move again in the same turn.