Deflect — Riftbound Keyword

Definition

Deflect is a Passive Ability keyword. It is functionally short for "Spells and abilities an opponent controls that choose me cost an amount of Power equal to [Deflect Value] more to play as an additional cost for each time they choose me."

Related FAQ (2)

What about Deflect costs? Aren't those optional now?

No. Deflect is a mandatory additional cost, meaning you must pay it if you want to finalize a spell or ability that chooses something with Deflect.

Does Deflect trigger when an opponent plays Bullet Time or another spell that damages all enemy units at a battlefield?

Deflect (rule 809) imposes a Mandatory Additional Cost only on opponents' spells and abilities that "choose" the permanent with Deflect. Spells like Bullet Time deal damage to all enemy units at a battlefield as a group, without individually choosing each unit, so they do not impose Deflect's additional cost. Deflect's Power surcharge only applies when an opponent's spell or ability specifically chooses the Deflecting permanent as one of its choices.