Can you respond to 'as enters the battlefield' triggers in MTG?
Absolutely! When a card with an 'as enters the battlefield' (ETB) trigger hits the field, it's kinda like throwing a party where the main guest arrives with a bang. While you can't respond to the creature itself popping onto the battlefield (since it's not using the stack), you can interact with the triggered ability it brings along. Think of it as the creature showing up unannounced but then announcing it's going to do something. THAT'S your chance to say 'Hold up!' and respond with instants or activated abilities.
Play Games.Earn points.Get gift cards!
Playback Rewards
(13.7k)
500k players and counting...
More Answers
Nope, you're a bit off there. 'As enters the battlefield' effects aren't triggers you can respond to. They're part of the creature landing on the battlefield, like luggage that comes with a passenger on a plane. By the time you see it, it's already there, and there's not much you can do about what's inside. So, no, you can't respond to these ETB effects because they happen simultaneously with the creature showing up.
As a long-time MTG player, I've seen many try and fail to respond to 'as enters the battlefield' effects. These aren't like the regular triggered abilities that use the stack. They're more like conditions that apply the moment the creature hits the table. So, from experience, save your counterspells for the creature itself or have something ready for after the effect has happened.
馃憖 If you like Magic the Gathering...
The brands referenced on this page are not sponsors of the rewards or otherwise affiliated with this company. The logos and other identifying marks attached are trademarks of and owned by each represented company and/or its affiliates. Please visit each company's website for additional terms and conditions.
People also want to know
Add an Answer