Is Partner Legal in Commander?
In the world of Magic: The Gathering, the Commander format is a beloved and complex game mode. With its unique rules and cardpool, it requires a deep understanding of the game to navigate its intricacies. One of the most important and debated topics in Commander is the legality of the Partner ability. In this article, we will delve into the world of Partners and answer the question: Is Partner legal in Commander?
What is Partner?
Before we dive into the legality of Partner, let’s clarify what Partner is. The Partner ability is a mechanic introduced in Commander 2016 that allows two commanders to be played together as a single commander. Partner is a keyword ability that specifically applies to Commander cards. It was designed to create new strategies and gameplay possibilities in Commander.
Is Partner legal in Commander?
Yes, Partner is legal in Commander. The ability is explicitly mentioned in the Commander 2016 supplemental rules and is not considered a "banned or restricted list" card. This means that you can play Partner cards as long as they are part of your deck’s card pool.
How does Partner work?
When you play a Partner card, it allows you to choose a second commander from your deck. The second commander must have the Partner ability as well. Both commanders can be played on the same turn, but they cannot be played if the opponent has already started their turn. Once you have both commanders on the battlefield, they can attack and block as normal, but their abilities and loyalty counters will work independently.
Important Notes
When playing with Partner, it’s essential to keep in mind the following:
• Color Identity: Each commander must have a distinct color identity. This means that you cannot play a commander that has the same color identity as another commander in your deck.
• Deck Size: As with traditional Commander, the maximum deck size is 100 cards. This means that you can only include 99 cards in your deck, leaving room for your two commanders.
• Card Advantage: Both commanders can provide card advantage, so be mindful of the card draw and filter effects provided by each.
Combining Partners with Other Commander Cards
In addition to the Partner mechanic, you can combine multiple Commander cards with other commanders to create unique and complex strategies. Here’s a list of possible commander combinations:
| Commanders | Partner | Combos |
|---|---|---|
| 2x Partnered Commanders | Traditional Commander Pair | |
| Commander + Elder Dragon | Monarch or Tribal Commander Combo | |
| Commander + Sol Ring | Ramp-Focused Commander Combo | |
| Commander + Mystic Remora | Life Gain Combo |
Conclusion
Partner is legal in Commander and offers a new layer of complexity and strategy to the game. By understanding the Partner ability and its intricacies, you can create unique and powerful commander combos that set you apart from the competition. Remember to keep an eye on the Color Identity, Deck Size, and Card Advantage when combining Partners with other Commander cards.