Can I respond to Ninjitsu?

Asked by AugmentELO 9 years ago

I am aware that since it puts the creature on the battlefield, I can't counter it. However, can I counter the activated ability (while in their hand). Can I Mindbreak Trap? Does it use the stack?

TheRedMage says... Accepted answer #1

Activated (and triggered) abilities use the stack, same as spells. However, they are not spells, they are just a separate type of object that can also be on the stack. That is why spells like Counterspell can't counter them - they simply cannot target them, as they explicitly say their target needs to be a spell.

You can counter the activated ability using a small set of cards that explicitly say that (Stifle, Squelch, Voidslime, Azorius Guildmage, Trickbind). This will work the same way as countering normally does - they will pay the cost (some mana, plus returning an unblocked creature they control to their hand) and then the ability will not resolve, so their ninja will stay int heir hand.

You cannot target the Ninjustsu ability with Mindbreak Trap as Mindbreak Trap specifically says it can only target spells, same as Counterspell, and, as discussed, abilities are not spells.

December 1, 2015 1:15 a.m.