In our recent preview of the MTG Tarkir Dragonstorm, we received an exciting glimpse into the upcoming offerings for Commander enthusiasts. This expansion revisits the beloved factions of the original Tarkir block, leading to the anticipation of a dedicated Commander deck representing each of the five clans.
During the preview, we were introduced to two Commanders for each deck, with the full decklists set to be revealed soon. Whether you have a fondness for a specific faction from the iconic Khans of Tarkir block or are new to the game, you will find something appealing in these new decks. It’s worth noting that while the core themes remain, there have been notable lore adjustments since the original release.
Each faction’s Commander deck promises to deliver unique and potent strategies tailored to their style. The Tarkir Dragonstorm set already appears to offer an array of powerful cards based on initial reveals, and this trend is expected to extend into Commander gameplay. While the final deck compositions remain under wraps, we can share insights about each faction’s primary and Spirit Dragon Commanders.
Overview of Tarkir Dragonstorm Commander Preconstructed Decks
1. Abzan Armor (White/Black/Green)
The Abzan Armor deck is a treat for fans of Defender strategies in MTG. Its primary focus is on high-toughness creatures that can transition into formidable attackers. The Commander, Felothar the Steadfast, allows your Defenders to assign combat damage equal to their toughness, while also enabling them to attack as if they lacked the Defender ability.
This deck also offers card draw mechanics; sacrificing a creature enables you to draw cards equivalent to its toughness and discard based on its power. For instance, a 0/6 creature can be sacrificed with no downside. Additionally, Betor, Ancestor’s Voice grants +1/+1 counters based on the amount of life you gain each turn, creating a synergy that works powerfully with the first Commander.
2. Jeskai Striker (Blue/Red/White)
The Jeskai Striker deck embraces the mechanics of Prowess and Flurry. Commanded by Elsha, Threefold Master, this 1/1 creature with Trample enhances its power whenever you cast a noncreature spell. It also generates 1/1 white Monk tokens with Prowess whenever it deals combat damage to a player, enabling rapid board presence.
Complementing Elsha is Shiko and Narset, Unified, which allows you to copy spells that target permanents or players after casting your second spell each turn, with the option to choose new targets. This synergy within the Red/White/Blue color scheme facilitates aggressive strategies, amplifying the potential for impactful spells.
3. Sultai Arisen (Black/Green/Blue)
The Sultai Arisen deck centers on self-milling and resurrecting creatures along with generating free tokens. Its Commanders work harmoniously, with Kotis, Sibsig Champion allowing you to cast a creature spell from your graveyard each turn after exiling three cards.
Additionally, for every creature entering the battlefield that originated from the graveyard, Kotis gains +1/+1 counters. Meanwhile, Teval, the Balanced Scale initiates self-mill triggers and enables you to put lands into play from your graveyard, complementing the deck’s erratic nature and access to valuable resources.
4. Mardu Surge (Red/White/Black)
If you enjoy countless token strategies, Mardu Surge is your go-to deck. Lead by Zurgo Stormrender, this deck generates 1/1 red Warrior tokens whenever Zurgo attacks. These tokens sacrifice themselves at the end of the turn, creating opportunities for draw effects or life loss for your opponents.
Another compelling commander, Neriv, Crackling Vanguard, adds flying and deathtouch to the mix, generating Goblin tokens upon entering the battlefield and enabling the exile of cards while attacking. The synergy in this deck promises a consistent stream of value and potential game-clinching combos.
5. Temur Roar (Green/Blue/Red)
Finally, welcome to the Temur Roar deck, which epitomizes mana ramping and Dragon summoning. Headed by Eshki, Temur’s Roar, this commander gains +1/+1 counters with each creature spell cast, drawing cards for more substantial creatures, thereby inflicting damage to opponents as her power increases.
Accompanying her is Ureni of the Unwritten, a formidable 7/7 dragon capable of generating extra value by returning dragons from the top of your deck directly onto the battlefield. Though lacking Eshki’s bonus, this ability underscores the power and unpredictability of the deck.
As excitement builds around the Tarkir Dragonstorm set, each Commander deck is poised to captivate players with dynamic gameplay and strategic depth. Keep an eye out for the final decklists and prepare for exhilarating battles in your Commander games!
- Explore the diverse strategies across five unique factions.
- Discover powerful new Commanders and their interactions.
- Get ready for exhilarating gameplay with Tarkir Dragonstorm!