Is the Warhammer set legal in Commander?
Magic: The Gathering and Games Workshop’s Warhammer Fantasy Battles have always been distinct universes, with unique settings, stories, and gameplay mechanics. However, the two properties have started to converge in recent years, with Magic: The Gathering releasing Warhammer-themed sets, like "The Lord of the Rings: Tales of Middle-earth" and "Warhammer 40,000 Commander". These sets have raised questions among players about the legality of Warhammer cards in Magic: The Gathering’s Commander format.
Card Legality
To answer the question, we need to delve into Magic’s Card Legality policy. According to the official Magic: The Gathering website, cards are legal in Commander if they meet the following criteria:
- They are part of the main deck, not a sideboard.
- They are included in the most recent card sets, including sets not yet released.
- They do not have a gold border or a silver border.
- They do not have an acorn stamp.
Warhammer Set Legality
Now, let’s apply these criteria to the Warhammer set. The Warhammer 40,000 Commander cards with the 40K set code numbered 1–176 are permitted in the Commander, Legacy, and Vintage formats. These cards are considered part of the main deck and meet the criteria listed above.
However, the Warhammer 40,000 Commander cards with the 40K set code numbered 181–317 and 322 are reprinted cards legal for play in any format where a card with the same name is permitted. These cards are reprints of existing Magic: The Gathering cards and can be used in any format where their original versions are legal.
Are All Warhammer Cards Legal in Commander?
Not all Warhammer cards are legal in Commander. The Warhammer-themed sets, like "The Lord of the Rings: Tales of Middle-earth", have their own set legality and are permitted in the Modern format, as well as in Commander, Legacy, and Vintage. However, cards with acorn stamps or gold borders are not legal in Commander or any other Magic: The Gathering format.
Subsets and Rarities
Warhammer cards, like Magic: The Gathering cards, come in different subsets and rarities. Common, Uncommon, Rare, and Mythic Rare cards are all part of the Warhammer sets and can be used in Commander. Mythic Rare cards, in particular, are extremely rare and highly sought after by collectors and players.
Converting Warhammer Cards to Commander
Converting Warhammer cards to Commander requires some strategy and creative thinking. Since Warhammer cards are designed for the Warhammer Fantasy Battles and Warhammer 40,000 games, they often have unique mechanics and keywords that may not be applicable in Magic: The Gathering. Players need to adapt these cards to Magic’s Commander format, making sure they comply with Magic’s card legality policy and Commander-specific rules.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Warhammer set is legal in Commander, but not all Warhammer cards are permitted in the format. Cards with the 40K set code numbered 1–176 are legal in Commander, Legacy, and Vintage, while reprinted cards with the same name as existing Magic: The Gathering cards are also legal in any format where their original versions are permitted. By understanding Magic’s Card Legality policy and adapting Warhammer cards to Commander’s format, players can make the most of these exciting and unique cards.