Repartee

Keywords · beginner

Repartee is an ability word. It has no rules meaning of its own (CR 207.2c) — every repartee ability triggers off the same event: casting an instant or sorcery spell that targets a creature.

How it works

• Repartee abilities all read "Whenever you cast an instant or sorcery spell that targets a creature, [effect]."
• The spell can target any creature — yours or an opponent's — the trigger only cares that a creature is among its targets.
• Effects range from putting a +1/+1 counter on a creature you control, to creating a token, to pumping the repartee creature itself until end of turn.

Rules notes

• The trigger fires the moment you cast the qualifying spell, not when it resolves.
• The spell has to target a creature; if it only targets a player, a planeswalker, or nothing at all, repartee doesn't fire.
• The printed repartee abilities share the exact same trigger text; only the payoff effect differs from card to card.

Rule reference

[207.2c]