When is a spell removed from the stack? (counterspells)
Asked by Lurac 7 years ago
Okay; I've been pondering this for a long time.
If I use a normal Counterspell to counter any normal spell, say Lightning Bolt, then the stack looks like this.
Lightning Bolt
Counterspell (targeting Bolt)
Resolve from bottom to top.
First, Counterspell resolves and counters the Bolt. I then assume that the Bolt remains on the stack, until the time comes for it to resolve. Then it "remembers" it's been countered, and simply doesn't. Am I getting this right?
Here's my actual question: Assuming that my previous example was correct, are there counterspells (or similar) that remove spells from the stack before they would resolve?
Example: I cast Lightning Bolt. My opponent responds with Reverberate. I have Remand in hand. Can I remand my Bolt to move it from the stack to my hand BEFORE Reverberate resolves, leaving the latter without a target and effectively 1-for-0 my opponent? or does the "if it's countered this way"-clause mean that you wait until the Bolt would try to resolve?
I guess that Nivmagus Elemental and Venser, Shaper Savant would work in this scenario anyway.
Is that true for normal Counterspells, too?I mean, the rule you quoted practically says that, but I was sure that wasn't how it worked, so I need to make sure.
June 19, 2016 6:26 a.m.
Yes, that rule is how it works for any spell that Counters another spell (unless the card states otherwise, like Remand putting it back to hand)
June 19, 2016 6:39 a.m.
Thank you. I have wondered about this for a long time.
Oh,wait! A related question that i forgot to include: If a spell's target is made illegal (through a sacrifice, Unsummon or protection, e.g. Stave Off), Is the spell removed from the stack immediately? (i believe it's called "countering by game rules")
June 19, 2016 7:37 a.m.
Not until it goes to try and resolve. Once a spell is on the stack it doesn't check anything again until it tries to resolve
Denial048 says... Accepted answer #1
701.5a To counter a spell or ability means to cancel it, removing it from the stack. It doesnt resolve and none of its effects occur. A countered spell is put into its owners graveyard
When your Remand resolves, it removes Lightning Bolt from the stack. Then, when your opponents Reverberate goes to resolve, it no longer has a legal target and fizzles
June 19, 2016 5:48 a.m. Edited.