0

If I enter an empty battlefield and my opponent moves in a unit as a response, who is the attacker and who is the defender?

verified
FAQ #8104·asked by 286452495935340545·January 4, 2026·Rules v1.4·Asked before Vendetta
Answer

Ruling: When you enter an empty battlefield and your opponent responds by moving in a unit, the first showdown must fully resolve first (ending when both players pass with focus on an empty chain). Then a second combat showdown begins with you as the attacker, since you were the one who applied contested status to the battlefield. This is known as a "surprise defence."

Sequence:

  • First showdown begins and must fully resolve (both players pass with focus on empty chain)
  • First showdown ends without anyone having control since both players have units at the battlefield
  • Second combat showdown begins with the original player (who entered empty battlefield) as attacker
  • Control is only established after the second showdown ends

Nuances:

  • The opponent can score if they win the second combat showdown
  • Even though the opponent has a unit there after their response resolves, the first showdown continues as normal since it already began
Comments (0)

No comments yet.

Log in to comment.

Open Proposals (0)

No pending proposals.

Log in to propose edits.