First strike
From MTG Salvation Wiki
First strike is a keyword ability that changes the rules for combat, by adding an additional combat damage step. The ability usually represents a creature's exceptional speed or prowess; or possession of long range weapons, such as spears and polearms. First strike has been in Magic since the original Alpha set. First strike has appeared in all colors, but is primarily placed in white and red.
From the Comprehensive Rules (as of Magic 2010)
- 702.7. First Strike
- 702.7a First strike is a static ability that modifies the rules for the combat damage step. (See rule 510, “Combat Damage Step.”)
- 702.7b If at least one attacking or blocking creature has first strike or double strike (see rule 702.4) as the combat damage step begins, the only creatures that assign combat damage in that step are those with first strike or double strike. After that step, instead of proceeding to the end of combat step, the phase gets a second combat damage step. The only creatures that assign combat damage in that step are the remaining attackers and blockers that didn’t have first strike as the first combat damage step began, as well as the remaining attackers and blockers that currently have double strike. After that step, the phase proceeds to the end of combat step.
- 702.7c Adding or removing first strike any time after combat damage has been put on the stack in the first combat damage step won’t prevent a creature from dealing combat damage or allow it to deal combat damage twice.
- 702.7d Multiple instances of first strike on the same creature are redundant.
[edit] Reminder text
The latest reminder text for First strike reads "This creature deals combat damage before creatures without first strike."
