Is Flash legal in Commander?

Is Flash Legal in Commander?

The ever-popular Flash, a card that has been the subject of much debate in the Commander community. Is it legal in Commander, or has it been banned? Let’s dive in and explore the history of Flash in Commander and find out if it’s still a viable option for your decks.

History of Flash in Commander

Flash was first introduced in 2005 as a common in the Mirrodin set. Initially, it was met with moderate success, but it wasn’t until the rise of combo-based decks in Commander that Flash truly came into its own. In 2017, the ban on Flash Hulk, a popular combo that utilized Flash to get undercosted threats onto the battlefield, was lifted, allowing players to once again build around this powerful card.

The Ban in 2020

However, in 2020, Flash was banned from Commander, effectively ending its reign as a top-tier combo piece. The ban was met with controversy, with many players feeling that the card was being unfairly targeted due to the success of Flash Hulk decks.

Why was Flash Banned?

According to Wizards of the Coast, Flash was banned due to its "extreme power level and ease of abuse." Specifically, the card’s ability to make any creature untapped and able to attack or use its abilities, even in the early game, was deemed too strong for the format.

Consequences of the Ban

The ban on Flash had a significant impact on the Commander community. Decks that relied heavily on Flash as a combo piece were forced to adapt and find new ways to achieve their desired synergies. Some players chose to focus on other combo pieces, such as Mox Opal or Sol Ring, while others opted to build around more established threats.

Alternatives to Flash

So, what are some alternatives to Flash that you can use in your Commander decks?

• Mox Opal: A more traditional combo piece that allows you to untap and activate abilities in the early game.
• Sol Ring: A more expensive combo piece that provides a large amount of mana in the early game.
• Gilded Lotus: A more situational combo piece that allows you to ramp up your mana in the mid-game.
• Kris: A more aggressive combo piece that allows you to attack with smaller creatures and still maintain tempo.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Flash is not legal in Commander due to its extreme power level and ease of abuse. While it may have been a powerful card in the past, its ban has led to a more balanced and diverse metagame. If you’re looking for alternatives to Flash, consider the options listed above, or experiment with other combo pieces that fit your playstyle.