Can you permanently exile a commander?

Can You Permanently Exile a Commander?

As a commander in the Magic: The Gathering universe, the eternal format of Commander provides an exciting and strategic platform for players to showcase their deck-building skills and tactics. However, there may be situations where you need to get rid of an opponent’s commander to gain a strategic advantage. The question is, can you permanently exile a commander? Let’s dive into the answer and explore the options.

Direct Answer

Yes, you can permanently exile a commander. Rule 903.9 specifically states that if a commander would be exiled from anywhere or put into its owner’s hand, graveyard, or library from anywhere, its owner may put it into the command zone instead. This means that as long as you have the necessary cards and mana, you can exile an opponent’s commander permanently, putting it out of the game for good.

Commander Exile Mechanisms

There are several ways to exile a commander, including:

• Exile spells: Spells like Exile, Exile the Mind, and Mnemonic Barrier can be used to exile an opponent’s commander.
• Commander sacrifice: Sacrificing your own commander can sometimes exile an opponent’s commander, depending on the specific cards involved.
• Token creation: Creating tokens that destroy or exile the commander can be a powerful strategy.
• Combo pieces: Combining cards with specific exile mechanics, such as Cry of the Carnarium, can permanently exile a commander.

Permanently Exiling a Commander: Strategies and Tips

While it’s possible to exile a commander permanently, there are some strategies and tips to keep in mind:

• Choose the right exile mechanism: Depending on the situation, using the right exile mechanism can be crucial. For example, if an opponent has a commander that can only be exiled with a specific spell, you may want to use that spell instead of a more general exile mechanism.
• Pay attention to commander lifespan: Some commanders have shorter lifespans than others, making them more susceptible to exile. Look for commanders with shorter lifespans to target first.
• Use combo pieces wisely: Combining cards with exile mechanics can be powerful, but make sure to use them wisely to avoid overextending or falling behind in life total.
• Consider life totals: If an opponent is low on life total, it may be easier to exile their commander instead of trying to reduce it further.

Permanently Exiling a Commander: Examples and Combos

Here are some examples of cards and combos that can permanently exile a commander:

Conclusion

In conclusion, while exiling a commander can be a powerful strategy in Commander, it’s important to choose the right exile mechanism and consider life totals, commander lifespan, and combo pieces. By combining the right cards and playing them strategically, you can permanently exile an opponent’s commander and gain a significant advantage in the game.

Additional Tips and Strategies

• Pay attention to opponent’s commander choice: Some commanders are more vulnerable to exile than others. Pay attention to your opponent’s commander choice and plan accordingly.
• Use exile to set up future plays: Exiling an opponent’s commander can create opportunities for future plays, such as creating a board presence or setting up a combo.
• Exile as a threat: Exiling an opponent’s commander can be a threat in and of itself, as it can significantly weaken their board presence.

By following these tips and strategies, you can become a master of commander exile and dominate the game of Magic: The Gathering.