Mastering Priority in MTG Multiplayer: A Comprehensive Guide
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.
In Magic: The Gathering (MTG) multiplayer, priority operates in a clockwise direction. The active player (the player whose turn it is) always receives priority first at the beginning of each step and phase of their turn. After the active player takes an action or chooses to pass priority, priority then passes to the next player in a clockwise direction around the table. Each player has the opportunity to respond to actions taken by the previous player. This continues until all players pass priority in succession, which allows the spell or ability on top of the stack to resolve.
Understanding the Flow of Priority
The priority system in MTG governs who can cast spells, activate abilities, and take special actions at any given time. Without it, chaos would reign. The game moves forward through a series of steps and phases, with priority being a central mechanic that dictates turn-based interactions. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
-
Beginning of Phase/Step: At the start of each phase or step (except the untap step), the active player automatically gets priority.
-
Actions and Passing: The active player can choose to take an action (like casting a spell or activating an ability) or pass priority. If they take an action, they retain priority. If they pass, priority moves to the next player in a clockwise direction.
-
Responding to Actions: When a player takes an action, each other player gets an opportunity to respond to that action by casting a spell or activating an ability of their own. This is where the stack becomes relevant.
-
The Stack: When a spell or ability is cast, it goes on the stack. Players can respond to spells and abilities on the stack by adding their own spells and abilities on top of it. The stack resolves in a last-in-first-out (LIFO) order, meaning the last spell or ability cast will resolve first.
-
Resolving Spells/Abilities: A spell or ability only resolves when all players have passed priority in succession. Once a spell or ability resolves, the active player gets priority again.
Priority in Commander (EDH)
Commander (EDH), a popular multiplayer format, follows the same priority rules as standard multiplayer MTG. Think of priority as a “talking stick.” The active player gets to “speak” (take action) first, then each player in a clockwise order gets a chance to respond or take their own actions. If no one has anything else to say (no one takes action or responds), the game moves to the next step/phase. This ensures that everyone has an opportunity to interact with what’s happening in the game.
Examples of Priority in Action
-
Scenario 1: Countering a Spell
- The active player casts a creature spell.
- They pass priority.
- The next player in a clockwise direction casts a counterspell targeting the creature spell.
- The player who cast the creature spell can then respond to the counterspell with their own spell or ability (like a spell that makes their creature uncounterable).
- If no one else responds, the counterspell resolves, countering the creature spell.
-
Scenario 2: Combat Phase
- During the combat phase, the active player declares attackers.
- They pass priority.
- Each defending player in turn order (clockwise from the active player) gets a chance to declare blockers.
- After blockers are declared, the active player gets priority to cast spells or activate abilities before damage is dealt. This is an opportunity to pump up their attacking creatures or cast combat tricks.
- Then each other player in turn order gets priority, and once all players have passed priority, combat damage is dealt.
Key Takeaways About Priority
- Clockwise Order: Priority always passes in a clockwise direction around the table.
- Active Player First: The active player always gets priority first at the beginning of each step and phase.
- Response Opportunity: Every player gets an opportunity to respond to actions taken by other players.
- The Stack Matters: The stack is the key to understanding how spells and abilities interact.
- Passing Priority is Crucial: For the game to progress, players must eventually pass priority.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Priority in MTG Multiplayer
FAQ 1: Who gets priority after a spell is cast?
The player who casts a spell retains priority immediately after casting it. They can cast another spell or activate an ability in response to their own spell, or they can pass priority.
FAQ 2: Who gets priority after a spell resolves?
After a spell resolves, the active player (the player whose turn it is) always gets priority first.
FAQ 3: Can I respond to my own spell?
Yes, a player can respond to their own spell. This is often done to protect a spell from being countered or to create complex interactions.
FAQ 4: How does priority work during the combat phase?
During the combat phase, the active player gets priority after declaring attackers, and each defending player gets priority after blockers are declared. This allows for combat tricks and other interactions.
FAQ 5: What happens if all players pass priority in succession?
If all players pass priority in succession, the top spell or ability on the stack resolves.
FAQ 6: Can I tap lands for mana at any time?
While mana abilities don’t use the stack, you still get priority after activating them. Activating mana abilities is an action, and after doing it, the priority comes back to you.
FAQ 7: What is APNAP order?
APNAP stands for Active Player, Non-Active Player order. This is relevant when multiple players need to make a choice or perform an action simultaneously, such as sacrificing a creature. The active player makes their choice first, followed by the non-active players in turn order.
FAQ 8: What is the maximum hand size in MTG?
The maximum hand size in MTG is normally seven cards. During the cleanup step, if a player has more than seven cards, they must discard down to seven.
FAQ 9: What is the significance of rule 116 in MTG?
Rule 116 in MTG describes the timing and priority rules. It explains when players get priority and how state-based actions are checked and performed.
FAQ 10: Do players get priority during each other’s upkeep?
Yes, you gain priority during your opponent’s upkeep, when they attempt to move into their draw step.
FAQ 11: Can I hold priority on my opponent’s turn?
You can only hold priority on your turn. On your opponent’s turn, they get priority first.
FAQ 12: What happens if a player loses the game in multiplayer?
If a player loses the game, they leave the game. Their permanents and spells are removed from the game.
FAQ 13: How does turn order work in multiplayer MTG?
Unless specified otherwise, turns proceed in a clockwise order in multiplayer MTG games.
FAQ 14: Where can I learn more about the strategic elements of MTG?
To deepen your understanding of the strategic elements of Magic and games in general, consider exploring resources like the Games Learning Society, available at GamesLearningSociety.org. Their research and publications offer insights into the cognitive and social aspects of gaming.
FAQ 15: What is the “stack” in MTG and how does it relate to priority?
The stack is a zone where spells and abilities wait to resolve. Players can respond to spells and abilities on the stack by adding their own spells and abilities on top of it. The stack resolves in a Last-In-First-Out (LIFO) manner, meaning the last spell or ability placed on the stack resolves first. Priority determines who can add something to the stack at any given time.
Understanding priority is fundamental to playing MTG effectively, particularly in multiplayer formats. Mastering the flow of priority allows you to control the game, respond to your opponents’ actions, and execute your strategies successfully. Good luck, and may the best mage win!