How do you permanently exile a Commander in MTG?
In Magic: The Gathering, exiling a Commander is a significant way to remove it from the game, and sometimes, it’s necessary to do so permanently. Whether you’re playing a Commander deck or facing one on the other side of the table, understanding how to exile a Commander is crucial. In this article, we’ll explore the different ways to exile a Commander, including the most reliable and flexible methods.
Direct Answer: Can a Commander be Permanently Exiled?
The short answer is yes. There are several ways to permanently exile a Commander in MTG. Here’s a breakdown of the methods:
- Terminate: This is one of the most reliable ways to exile a Commander. Terminate is a spell that reads, "Destroy target permanent." Since a Commander is a permanent, you can target it with Terminate.
- Mimic Vat: This Enchantment has an ability that reads, "Exile target creature or planeswalker." If you control the Commander, you can exile it with Mimic Vat.
- Banisher Priest: This Creature has an ability that reads, "Exile target creature or planeswalker." As long as you control Banisher Priest, you can exile the Commander.
- Other Exile-Inducing Effects: Certain cards, such as board wipes, removal spells, and other effects, can exile a Commander. Some examples include Supplanter, Savage Twister, and Widespread Destruction.
Ways to Exile a Commander Temporarily
While we’ve covered the ways to exile a Commander permanently, sometimes you might want to exile it temporarily. Here are some methods:
- Worst Fears: This Enchantment has an ability that reads, "Target player exiles their Commander." This can be used to exile a Commander for a turn or until a specific condition is met.
- Token Copying: Some cards, such as Mimic Vat, allow you to create a token copy of a creature or planeswalker. This can exile the original Commander temporarily until the token is destroyed.
Important Considerations
When exiling a Commander, keep the following points in mind:
- Commander Damage: Some Commanders have abilities that deal damage to a player when they’re exiled. Make sure to take this into account when using exile-inducing effects.
- Commander Returns: Some Commanders can return to the battlefield or be reanimated through certain effects. Be prepared to adapt your strategy accordingly.
- Exile-Limiting Effects: Certain cards, such as Exile Limit, limit the number of permanents that can be exiled. Be aware of these effects when using exile-inducing spells.
Comparison of Exile-Inducing Effects
Here’s a table comparing the most reliable exile-inducing effects:
| Effect | Reliable | Flexible | Target Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Terminate | Permanent | ||
| Mimic Vat | Creature or Planeswalker | ||
| Banisher Priest | Creature or Planeswalker |
Conclusion
Exiling a Commander in MTG can be a powerful way to disrupt an opponent’s strategy or remove a problematic creature from the game. While there are several ways to exile a Commander, Terminate is one of the most reliable and flexible methods. By understanding the different exile-inducing effects and considering important factors such as Commander damage and return, you can effectively remove a Commander from the game and gain a strategic advantage.