[iokepa]

I noticed in a recent podcast, Lee used a Mutavault as a creature to block - but also tapped it for mana. (at least I think thats what he did, i could be remembering it wrong). Anyways, can someone explain to me how that's legal?

If you block, and then tap in response to something: doesn't the tap go on top of the stack, and then you wouldn't be able to block with it?

[UnityErik]

Nope.

The first thing that happens in the Declare Blockers step is, well, you ... heh, declare blockers. This action doesn't use the stack and can't be responded to. After blockers are locked in, there is a point of priority for both players before the game moves on to the next step.

So, yes, you can block with a creature and then use it's tap ability and it will still be blocking an attacker.

[iokepa]

okay, thanks. one question that arises to me now - you said that declaring blockers can't be responded too. So,

I declare a 2/2 attacker.
Opponent declares no blockers.
I play an instant that pumps my attacker - making it a 5/5.
I do 5 damage to my opponent.

I thought you could play instants anytime during your turn, but only in response during an opponent's turn. If that's true - is the above example legal?

[Lythand]

okay, thanks. one question that arises to me now - you said that declaring blockers can't be responded too. So,

I declare a 2/2 attacker.
Opponent declares no blockers.
I play an instant that pumps my attacker - making it a 5/5.
I do 5 damage to my opponent.

I thought you could play instants anytime during your turn, but only in response during an opponent's turn. If that's true - is the above example legal?

You are essentially casting the instant after the blockers have been locked in and priority has been granted to you during your opponant's turn.

You may cast instances anytime you are granted priority on your opponant's turn, assuming there is no other restrictions in play that prevent you from doing so like Teferi, Mage of Zhalfir

[Trick]

iokepa, unfortunately there isn't a good way to show this in a normal game of Magic but during every step where someone is able to play something, both players have the opportunity to play spells. Never does only one player have an opportunity to play things.

So if it's your turn and you decide not to play anything during the main phase, your opponent can still play instants or Flash in creatures or use abilities that are at instant speed.

If it's your opponent's end of turn and they don't have any actions, you still have an opportunity.

Does that clarify it for you?

[iokepa]

Yeah, thanks Trick.