Rules glossary
109.4 Only objects on the stack or on the battlefield have a controller. Objects that are neither on the stack nor on the battlefield aren’t controlled by any player. See rule 108.4. There are six exceptions to this rule:
- 109.4a The controller of a mana ability is determined as though it were on the stack. See rule 605, “Mana Abilities.” (refs: 605)
- 109.4b A triggered ability that has triggered but is waiting to be placed on the stack is controlled by the player who controlled its source at the time it triggered, unless it’s a delayed triggered ability. To determine the controller of a delayed triggered ability, see rules 603.7d–f. See also rule 603, “Handling Triggered Abilities.” (refs: 603.7d, 603)
- 109.4c An emblem is controlled by the player who puts it into the command zone. See rule 114, “Emblems.” (refs: 114)
- 109.4d In a Planechase game, a face-up plane or phenomenon card is controlled by the player designated as the planar controller. This is usually the active player. See rule 901.6. (refs: 901.6)
- 109.4e In a Vanguard game, each vanguard card is controlled by its owner. See rule 902.6. (refs: 902.6)
- 109.4f In an Archenemy game, each scheme card is controlled by its owner. See rule 904.7. (refs: 904.7)
- 109.4g In a Conspiracy Draft game, each conspiracy card is controlled by its owner. See rule 905.5. (refs: 905.5)