Is MTG Crusade banned in Commander?

Is MTG Crusade Banned in Commander?

The world of Magic: The Gathering is always evolving, and with each new set and update, cards are being added and removed from various formats. One card that has garnered significant attention is Crusade, a rare enchantment from the 1994 set "Mirage". As of June 2020, Crusade has been banned in all sanctioned formats, including Commander. But why? In this article, we’ll dive into the reasons behind its ban and explore the impact it has on the Commander format.

Why is Crusade banned?

The main reason for Crusade‘s ban is its cultural and historical context. The card depicts real religious symbols, which can be offensive to some players. The Magic: The Gathering community values inclusivity and diversity, and Wizards of the Coast, the game’s developer, strives to maintain a respectful and welcoming environment.

Other factors contributing to the ban

While the cultural and historical context of Crusade is the primary reason for its ban, other factors also played a significant role. Crusade is a powerful card that can have a significant impact on the game state, making it difficult for opponents to interact with it. Its ability to give a creature +2/+2 and "Trample" can be overwhelming, especially in Commander, where the game can last for an extended period.

The impact on Commander

The ban of Crusade has a significant impact on the Commander format. The card was a staple in many Commander decks, particularly those that focused on white and green. Its removal has led to a shift in deckbuilding strategies and the creation of new cards that aim to fill the power vacuum left by Crusade.

What are the alternatives?

With Crusade banned, players have turned to other cards to fill the void. Some popular alternatives include:

• Godo, Bandit Warlord: A powerful planeswalker that can give a creature +2/+2 and "Trample" for a lower mana cost.
• Keldon Marauders: A tribal creature that can provide a similar boost to creatures with a lower mana cost.
• Sokenzan, Crucible of Defiance: A versatile card that can provide a variety of benefits, including a +2/+2 boost to creatures.

Conclusion

The ban of Crusade in Commander is a significant change to the format. While it was a powerful card, its cultural and historical context made it necessary to remove it from the game. As players adapt to the new meta, new strategies and cards will emerge, providing a fresh and exciting experience for Commander players.

FAQs

• Is Crusade banned in Modern?: Yes, Crusade is banned in Modern as of June 2020.
• Is Crusade banned in Legacy?: Yes, Crusade is banned in Legacy as of June 2020.
• What are some alternatives to Crusade?: Some popular alternatives include Godo, Bandit Warlord, Keldon Marauders, and Sokenzan, Crucible of Defiance.

Table: Comparison of Crusade and alternatives

Note: The power level of a card is subjective and may vary depending on the deck and playstyle.