Three Steps Ahead

Apr 12, 2024 · If an effect allows you to cast a spell with spree “without paying its mana cost,” you must still choose at least one mode and pay the associated additional costs.

Apr 12, 2024 · You can’t choose the same mode more than once.

Apr 12, 2024 · Each additional cost and associated mode in the text box is also preceded with a + indicator. These symbols also have no rules meaning and serve only to remind players that the listed costs are additional costs.

Apr 12, 2024 · The token copies exactly what was printed on the original permanent and nothing else (unless that permanent is copying something else or is a token; see below). It doesn’t copy whether that permanent is tapped or untapped, whether it has any counters on it or Auras and Equipment attached to it, or any non-copy effects that have changed its power, toughness, types, color, and so on.

Apr 12, 2024 · No player can cast spells or activate abilities in between the modes of a resolving spell. Any abilities that trigger won’t be put onto the stack until the spell is done resolving.

Apr 12, 2024 · If the copied permanent is a token, the token that’s created copies the original characteristics of that token as stated by the effect that created that token.

Apr 12, 2024 · If a mode requires a target, you can select that mode only if there’s a legal target available. Ignore the targeting requirements for modes you don’t choose.

Apr 12, 2024 · If the first and/or second modes are chosen, then Three Steps Ahead has one or more targets. If so, and all its targets are illegal as it tries to resolve, Three Steps Ahead won’t resolve and none of its effects will happen. If at least one target is still legal, the spell will resolve and modes with legal targets (and the third mode, if chosen) will have their effects.