When attacking in a showdown, does the attacker or defender start the action/reaction chain and have first focus/priority?

Ruling: The attacker has first focus/priority. If there is an initial chain of "when I attack/defend" triggers, the attacker will have priority for first reaction, and they retain first focus after that initial automated chain completes (focus does not pass after the initial chain). From there, focus passes normally between players.

Sequence:

  • Attacker moves unit and starts showdown
  • Initial chain of attack/defend triggers resolves (attacker has priority for first reaction)
  • Attacker retains first focus after initial chain completes
  • Focus then passes normally between players

Nuances:

  • "Initial chain" is a specific term meaning the chain created automatically by attack/defend triggers
  • You cannot use multiple action cards in the same chain, but once you gain focus again you can use another action
  • This priority rule was changed in CR 1.1