A creature’s inability to attack or use activated abilities with the tap symbol the turn it enters the battlefield is commonly referred to as summoning sickness. This restriction applies from the moment the creature enters the battlefield under a player’s control. The crucial factor determining when this restriction is lifted is the beginning of that player’s next turn. Effectively, if a creature enters the battlefield on a player’s turn, it can generally attack or use tap abilities starting on that player’s subsequent turn. For example, a creature played during the first main phase is unable to attack during the combat phase of that same turn but can be used to attack during the combat phase of the player’s next turn.
Understanding this rule is fundamental for strategic gameplay in Magic: The Gathering. Misinterpreting the timing can lead to missed opportunities or incorrect play sequencing, potentially impacting the outcome of a game. The concept has been present since the early days of the game and continues to be a key element in understanding creature-based strategies. Correct application of this knowledge facilitates efficient board management and effective combat planning.
