What happens if commander goes to hand?

What Happens if a Commander Goes to Hand?

A commander can enter the battlefield through various ways, including being cast from the command zone or being phased in from another zone. However, it’s important to understand what happens to a commander if it gets sent to the hand.

Recapping the Basic Rule

A commander, by its own definition, is a legendary creature with a certain power and ability. One of the main rules is that a commander can only be cast from the command zone, with an additional two mana added for each previous time it’s been cast from the command zone.

What Happens When a Commander Enters the Hand?

When a commander is put into an opponent’s hand, either by a card effect or as a result of its own ability, it remains a commander card. In other words, it still retains its name, type, and mana cost. However, it’s no longer a creature that can attack or defend and is effectively a regular spell card.

Commander Tax Not Applied

The commander tax only applies when a commander is cast from the command zone. Therefore, when a commander enters the hand, the additional two-mana cost per previous cast is not applicable.

Put into Command Zone Instead of Hand

In some situations, an opponent may be able to choose to return a commander from the graveyard or any other zone, including the hand, back to the command zone instead of discarding it.

How Does This Apply to Gameplay?

Here’s an example:

• Let’s say Bob has a commander, Kethis, the Hidden Hand, in his command zone.
• His opponent, Alex, casts a spell that says, "Return Kethis, the Hidden Hand to their hand."
• Bob gets to choose what happens next. He can either keep Kethis in his hand as a regular spell card or put it back into the command zone. If he chooses the latter, Kethis maintains its legendary status and Bob can recast it as usual, adding the required two-mana cost.

Game-Changing Effects

In some cases, a commander in the hand can create a game-changing opportunity for an opponent to turn the tables. Consider the following scenario:

• Alex’s opponent, Lily, has a commander in the hand.
• Lily’s commander has an ability that says, "Search your deck for a spell and put it into your hand." With the commander in her hand, she can cast a spell of her choice, potentially winning the game on the spot.

Commander Counters and Defenses

When it comes to protecting a commander, there are various counters and defenses players can use to prevent their opponent’s commander from doing damage or becoming a dominant force.

Conclusion

In summary, when a commander goes to hand, it still retains its card properties and is not removed from the game. While it can no longer be cast from the command zone, the commander tax does not apply. Players should be mindful of the opportunity to return their commander from the graveyard or hand back to the command zone instead of discarding it.

FAQs

• What happens if I put a commander in an opponent’s hand?: The opponent gains a new card that they can cast or add to their deck.
• Can a commander be counter-spelled?: Yes, just like any other spell.
• What happens to a commander in the graveyard?: A commander in the graveyard can be retrieved by the owner and added back to their command zone or returned to their hand.
• Can multiple commanders coexist in a game?: Yes, if two commanders have partner, both commanders can coexist on the battlefield at the same time.

Remember, knowledge of commander etiquette and its nuances is essential to building a strong Commander deck. Keep in mind the situations and strategies above to dominate the game!

Tables and Charts:

Commander Rule Summary

Counter and Defense Strategies:

Please note: The information provided is general knowledge and based on public sources. Magic: The Gathering game mechanics and official rules are subject to change. It is always a good idea to consult with official resources or a reputable source before playing a match.