Can all legendary planeswalkers be commanders?

Can all Legendary Planeswalkers be Commanders?

The answer to this question might not be straightforward, but we’ll dig into the world of Magic: The Gathering to uncover the truth. In the most recent Commander format, a planewalker can only serve as a commander if the card explicitly mentions it. This rule applies to all creatures, including legendary ones. However, there is an exception to this rule, allowing some planeswalkers to become commanders in specific situations.

The Normal Rule:

In the absence of any special abilities or card text that supports it, a legendary planeswalker cannot function as a commander. This is because the concept of a commander is tied to the idea of a legendary creature, not a planeswalker.

• Only Legendary Creatures Can Serve as Commanders: According to official Magic: The Gathering rules, a creature must be legendary to serve as a commander. This is stated in the Gatherer’s rules section: "Creatures are the only type of object that can serve as a commander."
• Planeswalkers are NOT Creatures: Planeswalkers are a distinct type of card from creatures, and they do not possess any ability to serve as commanders.

Exception: Cards with the "Can Serve as Commander" Ability:

But what about those special circumstances where a planeswalker can, in fact, serve as a commander? When a card explicitly states that the planeswalker can be a commander, these rules take precedence.

• Highlighted Exception: Some planeswalker cards have the ability to serve as a commander, making them eligible. For example, cards with the text "This card can be your commander" or similar language that explicitly states the planeswalker can lead a deck.

Examples of Eligible Planeswalkers:

Here are some examples of planeswalkers that meet the criteria for serving as commanders, explicitly stating that they can be the leader of a deck:

• Garruk, the Slayer: Yes, Garruk can be a commander.
• Mordenkainen: Yes, Mordenkainen is a solid Commander card.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Here’s a summary of some common questions and concerns regarding legendary planeswalkers as potential commanders:

Conclusion:

While the majority of legendary planeswalkers cannot serve as commanders, there is an exception for those cards that explicitly permit it. Keep in mind the specific language on the card in question to determine whether a planeswalker meets the criteria. Remember, not every legendary planeswalker can be a commander. With this information, you’ll have a better understanding of the rules that govern the world of Commander and more effectively navigate the complexities of Magic. So, the next time you’re curating your Commander deck and considering the possibilities, keep those planeswalkers in mind!