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Rules Answers › The Stack & Priority

Does copying a spell with Fork also copy the targets of the original spell?

Short answer
Yes. When Fork copies a spell, the copy starts with the same targets as the original, but you may choose new targets for the copy.

When you cast Fork targeting an instant or sorcery spell, Fork creates a copy of that spell on the stack. By default, the copy has the same targets as the original spell (CR 707.10). However, you are not locked into those targets — Fork's own text explicitly allows you to choose new targets for the copy, and CR 707.10 confirms that when a spell is copied and the copy grants the option to choose new targets, the controller may do so.

This means you get a choice at copy-creation time: keep the same targets or redirect the copy to entirely new legal targets. You cannot mix and match individual targets; the rule lets you change any or all targets, but only at that moment (CR 707.10, 114.6).

The original spell is completely unaffected by Fork — it remains on the stack with its original targets and resolves normally unless countered or otherwise disrupted. Only the copy is subject to your new target choices.

Example: Your opponent casts Lightning Bolt targeting your 3/3 creature. You cast Fork targeting that Lightning Bolt. A copy of Lightning Bolt is created; you may keep your creature as the target (odd choice) or redirect the copy to hit your opponent directly for 3 damage. The original Lightning Bolt still resolves and deals 3 damage to your creature unless you deal with it separately.

Note that the copy must still obey all targeting rules — any new target you choose must be a legal target for Lightning Bolt (CR 114.4). If no legal alternative target exists, you are stuck with the original target or the copy is simply a copy with the same target.

HIGH confidence CR 707.10 CR 114.4 CR 114.6
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Unofficial fan resource — not affiliated with or endorsed by Wizards of the Coast. Answers are AI-generated estimates grounded in the Comprehensive Rules and are not a substitute for an official judge. Verify anything match-critical.