Counterspell
Instant
Counter target spell.
Why Play Counterspell
The most mana-efficient hard counter in Magic's history, this spell provides unmatched versatility at just two blue mana. Control decks rely on it as their primary interaction piece, able to stop everything from cheap aggressive threats to game-ending bombs with equal effectiveness. Save it for opponents' most crucial spells rather than countering every small threat, and prioritize protecting your own win conditions once you're ready to close out games.Format Notes
Dominant in Legacy and Vintage where the cheap cost matters most against fast combo decks and expensive threats like Tinker targets. Modern sees less play due to the format's speed, though it remains viable in dedicated control shells. Commander tables welcome it as reliable, politically neutral removal that doesn't create card disadvantage, making it a blue staple across casual and competitive pods.Combos & Synergies
Pairs excellently with card selection like Brainstorm and Ponder to find the right answers at the right time. Teferi, Time Raveler creates a devastating lock by preventing opponents from playing spells at instant speed, making countermagic nearly impossible to play around. Flash creatures like Snapcaster Mage provide additional value by giving you threats while holding up counter protection, maximizing your mana efficiency each turn.Featured in These Decks
- Reap the Tides Commander
- Jump Scare! Commander
- Heads I Win, Tails You Lose Commander
- First Flight Commander
