Can you use a non legendary creature as a commander?

Can You Use a Non-Legendary Creature as a Commander?

In Magic: The Gathering’s Commander format, players can choose a legendary creature as their commander, which is the central figure of their deck. However, the question remains: can you use a non-legendary creature as a commander? The answer is yes, but with some exceptions and limitations.

What Makes a Creature a Commander?

According to the official Magic: The Gathering rules, a creature can be a commander if it has the "This card can be your Commander" ability or if it is a legendary creature. This means that non-legendary creatures cannot be commanders by default.

The Mystery Booster Test Card

In 2019, Wizards of the Coast released the Mystery Booster test card "You’re in Command," which allows players to change any creature into their commander, regardless of its legendary status. This card specifically allows non-legendary creatures to become commanders, but it is not a permanent solution and is only available through specific testing programs.

Dual Commanders

Another exception to the legendary creature rule is dual commanders. Dual commanders are two commanders that work together to control the game. While one of the commanders must be a legendary creature, the other can be a non-legendary creature with the "Partner" ability.

Can You Use a Non-Legendary Creature as a Commander in Commander?

In summary, while non-legendary creatures cannot be commanders by default, there are specific exceptions and limitations that allow them to become commanders in certain circumstances. The Mystery Booster test card "You’re in Command" and dual commanders with the "Partner" ability are two examples of how non-legendary creatures can become commanders.

Why Choose a Non-Legendary Creature as a Commander?

Some players may choose to use a non-legendary creature as a commander for various reasons:

• More versatility: Non-legendary creatures can be more versatile than legendary creatures, allowing players to create more complex and dynamic decks.
• More accessibility: Non-legendary creatures can be more accessible to new players, as they are often less expensive and more readily available.
• More creativity: Using a non-legendary creature as a commander can encourage creativity and experimentation in deck-building and gameplay.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while non-legendary creatures cannot be commanders by default, there are specific exceptions and limitations that allow them to become commanders in certain circumstances. The Mystery Booster test card "You’re in Command" and dual commanders with the "Partner" ability are two examples of how non-legendary creatures can become commanders. Choosing a non-legendary creature as a commander can offer more versatility, accessibility, and creativity in gameplay.

Additional Tips and Considerations

• Check the card’s text: Before using a non-legendary creature as a commander, check its text to ensure it has the necessary abilities and characteristics.
• Choose a powerful creature: Non-legendary creatures may not have the same level of power as legendary creatures, so choose a creature with significant abilities and strengths.
• Consider the format: Different formats, such as Commander and Legacy, may have different rules and restrictions regarding non-legendary creatures as commanders.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: Can I use a non-legendary creature as a commander in Commander?
  A: Yes, but only through specific exceptions and limitations, such as the Mystery Booster test card "You’re in Command" or dual commanders with the "Partner" ability.
• Q: Are non-legendary creatures weaker than legendary creatures?
  A: Not necessarily, as non-legendary creatures can have significant abilities and strengths.
• Q: Can I use a non-legendary creature as a commander in other formats?
  A: The answer depends on the specific format and its rules regarding non-legendary creatures as commanders.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while non-legendary creatures cannot be commanders by default, there are specific exceptions and limitations that allow them to become commanders in certain circumstances. Choosing a non-legendary creature as a commander can offer more versatility, accessibility, and creativity in gameplay.