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During a showdown with both 'when I attack' and 'when I defend' effects, who gets priority first to play reactions, and how does priority work on the chain?

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FAQ #6641·asked by 163790490997620736·January 4, 2026·Rules v1.4·Asked before Vendetta
Answer

Ruling: During the initial chain of a showdown, when both 'when I attack' and 'when I defend' effects go on the chain, the defender gets priority first to play reactions because their 'when I defend' effect goes on the chain last (making it the topmost item). The player controlling the topmost item on the chain always gets priority first.

Sequence:

  • When a showdown begins, 'when I attack' effects go on the chain first, then 'when I defend' effects
  • The defender (controlling the topmost item) gets priority first and can play as many reactions as they want before passing
  • Once they pass, the attacker can play as many reactions as they want, then passes
  • Players alternate passing until both pass in a row, then the topmost item resolves
  • After an item resolves, whoever controls the new topmost item gets priority again
  • This continues until the entire chain resolves
  • Once the chain fully resolves, focus passes automatically to the other player

Nuances:

  • Reactions don't necessarily target the top of the chain - they can target any legal target on the chain or even something unrelated
  • A player with priority can play multiple reactions in a row before passing, but the opponent's reactions will still resolve first (since they go on top of the chain)
  • Priority works this way for all chains, not just the initial showdown chain
  • Focus (for playing actions) passes automatically after a chain resolves, unlike priority which requires passing
  • Optional 'when defending' effects (like battlefield abilities) still count as going on the initial chain even if you choose not to use them
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