Can you play a new action spell during a showdown after the opponent passes focus? Specifically, can the attacker play Cleave after the defender plays a spell and the chain resolves?

Ruling: Yes, the attacker can play action spells like Cleave after the opponent's chain resolves and focus returns to them. A showdown only ends when both players pass in a row without starting a chain.

Sequence:

• Player A (attacker) starts showdown and can play a spell or pass
• Focus goes to Player B (defender) who can play a spell or pass
• When a chain closes, focus goes to the next player in turn order
• Each focus allows a player to start one chain
• Players alternate gaining focus until both players pass in a row
• Only then does the showdown end

Nuances:

• "One chain per focus" is the correct way to think about it
• When a chain closes, the next player "gains" focus (not "passes" focus) - this distinction matters because passing focus without playing anything is what closes the showdown
• Cleanup happens instantaneously when spells resolve, so units can die mid-showdown before you regain focus
• Action speed spells cannot be played during an opponent's chain - you would need reaction speed to respond during their chain