Does a Planeswalker Have to be Legendary to be a Commander?
In the world of Magic: The Gathering, the Commander format has become a staple of gameplay for many players. Among the various types of commanders, Planeswalkers have gained popularity due to their unique abilities and gameplay potential. However, there is a common misconception among players that a Planeswalker must be legendary to be used as a commander. In this article, we will delve into the truth behind this myth and explore the possibilities of non-legendary Planeswalkers as commanders.
What is a Commander?
Before we dive into the specifics of Planeswalkers, it’s essential to understand what a commander is. A commander is a card that serves as the leader of a player’s deck in a Commander game. The commander’s primary function is to set the tone for the game and guide the player’s strategy. In the case of Planeswalkers, they can be used as commanders if they meet specific requirements.
Legendary Planeswalkers vs. Non-Legendary Planeswalkers
When it comes to Planeswalkers, they can be divided into two categories: legendary and non-legendary. Legendary Planeswalkers are those that have the "Legendary" supertype, indicating that they are unique and cannot be duplicated in a player’s deck. These Planeswalkers are typically more powerful and have stronger abilities, making them more attractive as commanders.
On the other hand, Non-Legendary Planeswalkers lack the "Legendary" supertype and can be duplicated in a player’s deck. While they may not be as powerful as their legendary counterparts, they can still be used as commanders with the right build and strategy.
The Rule of Non-Legendary Planeswalkers
So, can a non-legendary Planeswalker be used as a commander? The answer is yes. According to the official Magic: The Gathering rules, a non-legendary Planeswalker can be used as a commander if it has the "This card can be your commander" line on the bottom of the card. This rule applies only to non-legendary Planeswalkers and allows players to use these cards as commanders.
Benefits of Non-Legendary Planeswalkers as Commanders
While legendary Planeswalkers may be more powerful, non-legendary Planeswalkers can offer several benefits as commanders. Here are a few advantages:
- Cost-effective: Non-legendary Planeswalkers are often cheaper than their legendary counterparts, making them more accessible to players on a budget.
- Flexibility: Non-legendary Planeswalkers can be used in a variety of builds and strategies, allowing players to experiment with different playstyles.
- Card advantage: Non-legendary Planeswalkers can provide card advantage, allowing players to draw extra cards or generate additional mana.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a Planeswalker does not have to be legendary to be a commander. Non-legendary Planeswalkers can be used as commanders if they have the "This card can be your commander" line on the bottom of the card. While legendary Planeswalkers may be more powerful, non-legendary Planeswalkers can offer several benefits, including cost-effectiveness, flexibility, and card advantage. By understanding the rules and benefits of non-legendary Planeswalkers as commanders, players can explore new and exciting possibilities in the Commander format.
Table: Comparison of Legendary and Non-Legendary Planeswalkers
| Category | Legendary | Non-Legendary |
|---|---|---|
| Supertype | Legendary | – |
| Uniqueness | Unique | Can be duplicated |
| Power Level | Stronger | Weaker |
| Cost | Often more expensive | Often cheaper |
| Flexibility | Less flexible | More flexible |
| Card Advantage | Less likely | More likely |
Additional Resources
For more information on Magic: The Gathering and Commander, check out the official Magic: The Gathering website or consult with a local game store.