In the event of conflicting abilities that influence the order of assigned combat damage, who decides which ability takes precedence?

In situations where there are conflicting abilities affecting the order of assigned combat damage, it is crucial to recognize that the player assigning the damage holds the authority to determine which ability takes precedence. This is grounded in the game's rules, which empower the active player (the one who is currently taking their turn) to manage the resolution of damage assignments.

When a player is engaged in combat, they have the strategic advantage of deciding how to assign damage based on their own tactical preferences and the unique abilities in play. This flexibility allows players to maximize their strategic options, potentially changing the outcome of the combat based on their choices.

The other options do not provide the same level of agency to the player. The game rules do establish a framework for how abilities interact, but ultimately, it is the player’s decision that dictates the order of damage assignment. Likewise, the defender or the characteristics of the units involved do not grant authority over how abilities are prioritized; rather, these factors can influence the strategic considerations of the player assigning damage, but do not supersede their decision-making power.