Premier Draft PIO 25 December 2024
25 December 02:01 - waynesun2010 7 Wins - 1 LossesMaindeck
| Creature (14) | |||
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| Instant, Sorcery, Enchantment, Artifact (9) | |||
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1
Audacity
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| Planeswalker (1) | |||
| Land (16) | |||
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7
Forest
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7
Plains
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Sideboard
Pack 1 Pick 1: Chromanticore
Chromanticore
0 // 4 Gate decks in this format will probably actually be able to cast this, and obviously it's pretty scary when that's the case. Most decks can't play it, though.
0 // 4 Gate decks in this format will probably actually be able to cast this, and obviously it's pretty scary when that's the case. Most decks can't play it, though.
Gatebreaker Ram
0 // 3.5 This is a great gate payoff that can serve as a very legitimate win condition when you have a bunch of Gates.
0 // 3.5 This is a great gate payoff that can serve as a very legitimate win condition when you have a bunch of Gates.
Ubul Sar Gatekeepers
0 // 3 This is unplayable if you don't have like 6+ gates, but if you do it's a pretty nice payoff.
0 // 3 This is unplayable if you don't have like 6+ gates, but if you do it's a pretty nice payoff.
Blackbloom Rogue
3 This is a pretty decent creature when you need it to be -- and you can always play it as a land when it's in your opening hand.
3 This is a pretty decent creature when you need it to be -- and you can always play it as a land when it's in your opening hand.
Sight Beyond Sight
2 This feels pretty bad the turn you cast it, but on the next turn you get the effect again with all of your mana available. Ultimately you get a pretty nice 2-for-1, and probably some spell triggers, too.
2 This feels pretty bad the turn you cast it, but on the next turn you get the effect again with all of your mana available. Ultimately you get a pretty nice 2-for-1, and probably some spell triggers, too.
Lagonna-Band Trailblazer
2 A one mana 0/4 is kind of brutal, but buffing this is plenty doable in the format.
2 A one mana 0/4 is kind of brutal, but buffing this is plenty doable in the format.
Scion of Ugin
1 A 6-mana 4/4 flyer doesn't real move the needle in Limited these days.
1 A 6-mana 4/4 flyer doesn't real move the needle in Limited these days.
Gateway Plaza
2.5 This is a bit clunky since you need to effectively spend a mana on it, but the gate typing definitely matters.
2.5 This is a bit clunky since you need to effectively spend a mana on it, but the gate typing definitely matters.
Boundary Lands Ranger
3 This has a solid baseline and can really let you dig deeper into your deck by the mid-game.
3 This has a solid baseline and can really let you dig deeper into your deck by the mid-game.
Commune with the Gods
1.5 This can load your graveyard while giving you some card selection, but you need to be a graveyard deck and/or enchantment deck for this to get there, and that's not going to happen often enough. Most of the time it's better to play a two mana 2/2.
1.5 This can load your graveyard while giving you some card selection, but you need to be a graveyard deck and/or enchantment deck for this to get there, and that's not going to happen often enough. Most of the time it's better to play a two mana 2/2.
Supernatural Stamina
2.5 This is a very nice trick because it's so cheap, and great in combat or against removal.
2.5 This is a very nice trick because it's so cheap, and great in combat or against removal.
Silundi Vision
2 This is super situational, and not all decks will really be able to get a card out of it. But in decks that can, it's a land with some pretty solid upside.
2 This is super situational, and not all decks will really be able to get a card out of it. But in decks that can, it's a land with some pretty solid upside.
Dreg Mangler
3 Scavenge means this gives you value in addition to being a solid three mana 3/3 haste. While it's not quite a 2-for-1, getting 3 +1/+1 counters is pretty close to a card of value.
3 Scavenge means this gives you value in addition to being a solid three mana 3/3 haste. While it's not quite a 2-for-1, getting 3 +1/+1 counters is pretty close to a card of value.
Azorius Guildgate
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
Cavern Lampad
2 As with many Bestow cards, both modes are kind of underwhelming, but the modality keeps it from being terrible.
2 As with many Bestow cards, both modes are kind of underwhelming, but the modality keeps it from being terrible.
Pack 1 Pick 2: Compulsory Rest
Ruric Thar, the Unbowed
3.5 This has an imposing stat-line, although the fact it has to attack will sometimes backfire -- like if your opponent has a death toucher. But most of the time, they won't have one creature that can take it down anyway, and the 6 damage trigger comes up a decent chunk of the time, too.
3.5 This has an imposing stat-line, although the fact it has to attack will sometimes backfire -- like if your opponent has a death toucher. But most of the time, they won't have one creature that can take it down anyway, and the 6 damage trigger comes up a decent chunk of the time, too.
Valakut Awakening
3 This is a great design for a MDFC, since early you'll just play it as a land -- and late, it can become a pretty nice draw spell.
3 This is a great design for a MDFC, since early you'll just play it as a land -- and late, it can become a pretty nice draw spell.
Aspect of Hydra
1.5 This can be a pretty potent combat trick -- but it can also be a blank card. And you need three green pips just for it to be Giant Growth, so it's tough to make it worthwhile in Limited.
1.5 This can be a pretty potent combat trick -- but it can also be a blank card. And you need three green pips just for it to be Giant Growth, so it's tough to make it worthwhile in Limited.
Witch's Mark
2.5 You get a pretty good return on your two mana investment + a card, since you add something to the board while digging deeper into your deck.
2.5 You get a pretty good return on your two mana investment + a card, since you add something to the board while digging deeper into your deck.
Treasure Cruise
0 // 3.5 You need a graveyard deck, but if you have a good enough one this basically becomes Ancestral Recall.
0 // 3.5 You need a graveyard deck, but if you have a good enough one this basically becomes Ancestral Recall.
Compulsory Rest
3 This is solid removal spell, though not shutting off static and activated abilities can be a problem sometimes.
3 This is solid removal spell, though not shutting off static and activated abilities can be a problem sometimes.
Savage Punch
3 When you have Ferocious this is incredible. When you don't, it's pretty bad. Good news is, Green decks will often get there on Ferocious.
3 When you have Ferocious this is incredible. When you don't, it's pretty bad. Good news is, Green decks will often get there on Ferocious.
Baleful Eidolon
2 This doesn't feel great either way you cast it, but the flexibility keeps it from being too bad.
2 This doesn't feel great either way you cast it, but the flexibility keeps it from being too bad.
Nessian Asp
2 A 4-mana 4/5 with Reach plays reasonably well, and in the late game it turns into a very big monster.
2 A 4-mana 4/5 with Reach plays reasonably well, and in the late game it turns into a very big monster.
Syndicate Messenger
2.5 4 mana for a 3/4 worth of flying stats is an okay deal.
2.5 4 mana for a 3/4 worth of flying stats is an okay deal.
Gust of Wind
2.5 Paying two for this feels pretty incredible, as it replaces itself and gives you some nice tempo. Paying 4 makes it a little harder to feel good about the tempo, but that's a passable card too.
2.5 Paying two for this feels pretty incredible, as it replaces itself and gives you some nice tempo. Paying 4 makes it a little harder to feel good about the tempo, but that's a passable card too.
Makindi Sliderunner
2 A two mana 2/1 trample is bad -- and a two mana 3/2 trample isn't insane either. This makes you jump through hoops to get there.
2 A two mana 2/1 trample is bad -- and a two mana 3/2 trample isn't insane either. This makes you jump through hoops to get there.
Izzet Guildgate
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
Reckless Bushwhacker
2.5 Surging this is where you really want to be, and it can add tons of damage to the board whether you Surge it or cast it normally. It's not great if you're behind, though.
2.5 Surging this is where you really want to be, and it can add tons of damage to the board whether you Surge it or cast it normally. It's not great if you're behind, though.
Pack 1 Pick 3: Fallaji Archaeologist
Swift Warkite
2.5 You don't always have a creature that's worth bringing back, but when you do this feels pretty good.
2.5 You don't always have a creature that's worth bringing back, but when you do this feels pretty good.
Mentor of the Meek
1.5 // 3.5 In a deck with enough ways to trigger this, it turns into quite the engine. Although, you'd be surprised how often you just don't have the spare mana to pay for it.
1.5 // 3.5 In a deck with enough ways to trigger this, it turns into quite the engine. Although, you'd be surprised how often you just don't have the spare mana to pay for it.
Dreadhound
3.5 This is great at stocking the graveyard, and it's ETB is usually going to make your opponent lose 1 life or more, while you get a pretty nice creature.
3.5 This is great at stocking the graveyard, and it's ETB is usually going to make your opponent lose 1 life or more, while you get a pretty nice creature.
Extricator of Sin
3 Turning a land or something else expendable into a 3/2 is pretty sweet, and once it transforms it maintains the ability to churn out tokens while granting itself and all those tokens Vigilance.
3 Turning a land or something else expendable into a 3/2 is pretty sweet, and once it transforms it maintains the ability to churn out tokens while granting itself and all those tokens Vigilance.
Mizzium Skin
2.5 This is a nice cheap way to blank removal, and sometimes it can even win combat.
2.5 This is a nice cheap way to blank removal, and sometimes it can even win combat.
Compulsory Rest
3 This is solid removal spell, though not shutting off static and activated abilities can be a problem sometimes.
3 This is solid removal spell, though not shutting off static and activated abilities can be a problem sometimes.
Boulder Salvo
2.5 A 5-mana deal 4 is bad, but Surging with this is pretty doable.
2.5 A 5-mana deal 4 is bad, but Surging with this is pretty doable.
Fallaji Archaeologist
3 This was a SUPER good common last time we saw it. If you're in Blue with lots of spells, you're going to frequently make this a two mana 0/3 that draws a card on ETB, and the fail case is a two mana 1/4 that helps you load the graveyard.
3 This was a SUPER good common last time we saw it. If you're in Blue with lots of spells, you're going to frequently make this a two mana 0/3 that draws a card on ETB, and the fail case is a two mana 1/4 that helps you load the graveyard.
Sanitarium Skeleton
0 // 2.5 If you've got a sacrifice deck, this is a decent build around since it can constantly give you fodder, albeit inefficiently.
0 // 2.5 If you've got a sacrifice deck, this is a decent build around since it can constantly give you fodder, albeit inefficiently.
Scion of Ugin
1 A 6-mana 4/4 flyer doesn't real move the needle in Limited these days.
1 A 6-mana 4/4 flyer doesn't real move the needle in Limited these days.
Returned Centaur
1.5 The stat-line is bad, and there are better ways to load the graveyard in the format.
1.5 The stat-line is bad, and there are better ways to load the graveyard in the format.
Izzet Guildgate
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
Clutch of Currents
3 This is solid when you only spend one mana on it, and great when you can also get a 3/3 out of the deal.
3 This is solid when you only spend one mana on it, and great when you can also get a 3/3 out of the deal.
Pack 1 Pick 4: Opal Lake Gatekeepers
Tidebinder Mage
3 A surprisingly high percentage of your opponents will be playing Red or Green, and against them this is pretty close to a two mana 2/2 that destroys a creature. That means you should main deck this, since the fail case is passable and the upside is so good.
3 A surprisingly high percentage of your opponents will be playing Red or Green, and against them this is pretty close to a two mana 2/2 that destroys a creature. That means you should main deck this, since the fail case is passable and the upside is so good.
Crackdown Construct
0 The base stat-line is awful, and buffing the Construct isn't particularly easy.
0 The base stat-line is awful, and buffing the Construct isn't particularly easy.
Zulaport Cutthroat
3 There are several free sacrifice outlets in the format that can run wild with this, and the effect is pretty solid anyway.
3 There are several free sacrifice outlets in the format that can run wild with this, and the effect is pretty solid anyway.
Opal Lake Gatekeepers
0 // 2.5 This is a solid build around for gates decks, where it's virtually always a 2-for-1.
0 // 2.5 This is a solid build around for gates decks, where it's virtually always a 2-for-1.
Wild Slash
3.5 Shock is always great in Limited, and this is Shock with upside. Killing 3 or 4 mana creatures with this can swing a game wildly in your favor.
3.5 Shock is always great in Limited, and this is Shock with upside. Killing 3 or 4 mana creatures with this can swing a game wildly in your favor.
Imperious Oligarch
3.5 This is ultimately 2 mana for a 2/1 with Vigilance and a 1/1 Flyer. While you don't get both of those at the same time, the fact remains that you are getting a great rate.
3.5 This is ultimately 2 mana for a 2/1 with Vigilance and a 1/1 Flyer. While you don't get both of those at the same time, the fact remains that you are getting a great rate.
Pelakka Predation
3 Having a free discard spell attached to a land is surprisingly good. You won't always hit something with Predation, but it's great disruption when you can -- and if you're pretty sure that effect won't do anything, you can always play it as a land.
3 Having a free discard spell attached to a land is surprisingly good. You won't always hit something with Predation, but it's great disruption when you can -- and if you're pretty sure that effect won't do anything, you can always play it as a land.
Scion of Ugin
1 A 6-mana 4/4 flyer doesn't real move the needle in Limited these days.
1 A 6-mana 4/4 flyer doesn't real move the needle in Limited these days.
Dragon Mantle
2.5 This is a nice way to trigger heroic since it replaces itself, and that also makes it have a very reasonable baseline.
2.5 This is a nice way to trigger heroic since it replaces itself, and that also makes it have a very reasonable baseline.
Nimbus Naiad
2 Wind Drake isn't that exciting, but it's sort of passable, and in the late game putting this on just about any creature makes it a major threat.
2 Wind Drake isn't that exciting, but it's sort of passable, and in the late game putting this on just about any creature makes it a major threat.
Dimir Guildgate
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
Cavern Lampad
2 As with many Bestow cards, both modes are kind of underwhelming, but the modality keeps it from being terrible.
2 As with many Bestow cards, both modes are kind of underwhelming, but the modality keeps it from being terrible.
Pack 1 Pick 5: Azorius Guildgate
Quicken
1.5 It replace itself so that it's not a complete dud, but you just don't have this and a Sorcery worth giving Flash to in your hand often enough for it to be very good.
1.5 It replace itself so that it's not a complete dud, but you just don't have this and a Sorcery worth giving Flash to in your hand often enough for it to be very good.
Ubul Sar Gatekeepers
0 // 3 This is unplayable if you don't have like 6+ gates, but if you do it's a pretty nice payoff.
0 // 3 This is unplayable if you don't have like 6+ gates, but if you do it's a pretty nice payoff.
Dragon Mantle
2.5 This is a nice way to trigger heroic since it replaces itself, and that also makes it have a very reasonable baseline.
2.5 This is a nice way to trigger heroic since it replaces itself, and that also makes it have a very reasonable baseline.
Rimrock Knight
3.5 This was surprisignly great last time we saw it. The buff doesn't always let your creature survive combat, but even just chipping in for extra damage and then adding a 3/1 to the board is a pretty good deal.
3.5 This was surprisignly great last time we saw it. The buff doesn't always let your creature survive combat, but even just chipping in for extra damage and then adding a 3/1 to the board is a pretty good deal.
Possessed Skaab
3 This is a bit clunky, but it's also a 2-for-1 that usually gets you back a very real card -- like a creature or removal spell.
3 This is a bit clunky, but it's also a 2-for-1 that usually gets you back a very real card -- like a creature or removal spell.
Devour Flesh
2 Edicts are nice, but letting your opponent gain life isn't the best. You can use it to gain life yourself in a pinch, but if you're forced to 2-for-1 yourself like that, you're probably losing.
2 Edicts are nice, but letting your opponent gain life isn't the best. You can use it to gain life yourself in a pinch, but if you're forced to 2-for-1 yourself like that, you're probably losing.
Gnarlback Rhino
3.5 This has a nice baseline, and while it doesn't technically have "Heroic" it works the same way. Combat tricks and fight spells are the Rhino's best friend, and there's enough of that in the format for this to be pretty amazing.
3.5 This has a nice baseline, and while it doesn't technically have "Heroic" it works the same way. Combat tricks and fight spells are the Rhino's best friend, and there's enough of that in the format for this to be pretty amazing.
Fallaji Archaeologist
3 This was a SUPER good common last time we saw it. If you're in Blue with lots of spells, you're going to frequently make this a two mana 0/3 that draws a card on ETB, and the fail case is a two mana 1/4 that helps you load the graveyard.
3 This was a SUPER good common last time we saw it. If you're in Blue with lots of spells, you're going to frequently make this a two mana 0/3 that draws a card on ETB, and the fail case is a two mana 1/4 that helps you load the graveyard.
Lagonna-Band Trailblazer
2 A one mana 0/4 is kind of brutal, but buffing this is plenty doable in the format.
2 A one mana 0/4 is kind of brutal, but buffing this is plenty doable in the format.
Azorius Guildgate
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
Sage's Reverie
1.5 Even in a format with an Aura theme, I'm skeptical of this. On it's own it's terrible, and putting a ton of Auras on a single creature is a good way to lose -- although, there is a decent amount of hexproof in the format.
1.5 Even in a format with an Aura theme, I'm skeptical of this. On it's own it's terrible, and putting a ton of Auras on a single creature is a good way to lose -- although, there is a decent amount of hexproof in the format.
Pack 1 Pick 6: Gateway Plaza
Azorius Charm
4 This is a very nice removal spell that happens to have two other useful modes.
4 This is a very nice removal spell that happens to have two other useful modes.
Dark Deal
0 This kind of card is almost never going to do something good. Sure, maybe you make your opponent discard some cards they wanted to hold on to, but that upside is negated by the fact that you are the one who used the card -- and it's just as likely that they draw into what they were looking for.
0 This kind of card is almost never going to do something good. Sure, maybe you make your opponent discard some cards they wanted to hold on to, but that upside is negated by the fact that you are the one who used the card -- and it's just as likely that they draw into what they were looking for.
Devour Flesh
2 Edicts are nice, but letting your opponent gain life isn't the best. You can use it to gain life yourself in a pinch, but if you're forced to 2-for-1 yourself like that, you're probably losing.
2 Edicts are nice, but letting your opponent gain life isn't the best. You can use it to gain life yourself in a pinch, but if you're forced to 2-for-1 yourself like that, you're probably losing.
Witch's Mark
2.5 You get a pretty good return on your two mana investment + a card, since you add something to the board while digging deeper into your deck.
2.5 You get a pretty good return on your two mana investment + a card, since you add something to the board while digging deeper into your deck.
Baleful Eidolon
2 This doesn't feel great either way you cast it, but the flexibility keeps it from being too bad.
2 This doesn't feel great either way you cast it, but the flexibility keeps it from being too bad.
Gateway Plaza
2.5 This is a bit clunky since you need to effectively spend a mana on it, but the gate typing definitely matters.
2.5 This is a bit clunky since you need to effectively spend a mana on it, but the gate typing definitely matters.
Gladecover Scout
1 // 3.5 This is a great creature to augment thanks to hexproof, but it's very bad if you can't do that.
1 // 3.5 This is a great creature to augment thanks to hexproof, but it's very bad if you can't do that.
Zendikar Incarnate
2 This is just a big vanilla creature. It'll never feel bad, but it'll never feel great either.
2 This is just a big vanilla creature. It'll never feel bad, but it'll never feel great either.
Golgari Guildgate
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
Fog
0 Fog is terrible in Limited. It's easy to imagine the ideal scenario -- your opponent swings out and you Fog, and then swing back for lethal. But that scenario is incredibly rare. Most of the time, you go down a card for an almost meaningless effect.
0 Fog is terrible in Limited. It's easy to imagine the ideal scenario -- your opponent swings out and you Fog, and then swing back for lethal. But that scenario is incredibly rare. Most of the time, you go down a card for an almost meaningless effect.
Pack 1 Pick 7: Cloudfin Raptor
Illusory Angel
2 It's not always easy to set this up -- it's a terrible top deck, for example. But if you can play something that costs one on turn 4, and then play this it feels like a quality turn. Problem is it just doesn't always line up.
2 It's not always easy to set this up -- it's a terrible top deck, for example. But if you can play something that costs one on turn 4, and then play this it feels like a quality turn. Problem is it just doesn't always line up.
Knightly Valor
2.5 This effectively adds 4/4 worth of Vigilance stats to the board, and 2/2 of it basically has Haste. Adding that body to the board really helps offset the downside Auras usually have.
2.5 This effectively adds 4/4 worth of Vigilance stats to the board, and 2/2 of it basically has Haste. Adding that body to the board really helps offset the downside Auras usually have.
Gateway Plaza
2.5 This is a bit clunky since you need to effectively spend a mana on it, but the gate typing definitely matters.
2.5 This is a bit clunky since you need to effectively spend a mana on it, but the gate typing definitely matters.
Witch's Mark
2.5 You get a pretty good return on your two mana investment + a card, since you add something to the board while digging deeper into your deck.
2.5 You get a pretty good return on your two mana investment + a card, since you add something to the board while digging deeper into your deck.
Dreg Mangler
3 Scavenge means this gives you value in addition to being a solid three mana 3/3 haste. While it's not quite a 2-for-1, getting 3 +1/+1 counters is pretty close to a card of value.
3 Scavenge means this gives you value in addition to being a solid three mana 3/3 haste. While it's not quite a 2-for-1, getting 3 +1/+1 counters is pretty close to a card of value.
Undead Butler
2.5 This sets up the graveyard nicely, and even has a decent effect to take advantage of that fact.
2.5 This sets up the graveyard nicely, and even has a decent effect to take advantage of that fact.
Cloudfin Raptor
2 This is awesome on turn one -- and a lot less awesome the rest of the game, since it's unlikely to grow quite as much. It's a terrible topdeck, too.
2 This is awesome on turn one -- and a lot less awesome the rest of the game, since it's unlikely to grow quite as much. It's a terrible topdeck, too.
Selesnya Guildgate
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
Ruinous Path
3.5 This is a clunky albeit effective removal spell in the early game, and in the late game it can also give you a 4/4, and that play really swings the game wildly in your favor.
3.5 This is a clunky albeit effective removal spell in the early game, and in the late game it can also give you a 4/4, and that play really swings the game wildly in your favor.
Pack 1 Pick 8: Gruul Guildgate
Coordinated Assault
3 This can generate 2-for-1s incredibly efficiently, and it gets even better in a heroic format.
3 This can generate 2-for-1s incredibly efficiently, and it gets even better in a heroic format.
Dark Deal
0 This kind of card is almost never going to do something good. Sure, maybe you make your opponent discard some cards they wanted to hold on to, but that upside is negated by the fact that you are the one who used the card -- and it's just as likely that they draw into what they were looking for.
0 This kind of card is almost never going to do something good. Sure, maybe you make your opponent discard some cards they wanted to hold on to, but that upside is negated by the fact that you are the one who used the card -- and it's just as likely that they draw into what they were looking for.
Halo Scarab
1.5 This was pretty weak last time we saw it, and it will be here too. It has bad stats, and while getting Treasure can be nice, paying 2 mana for it isn't.
1.5 This was pretty weak last time we saw it, and it will be here too. It has bad stats, and while getting Treasure can be nice, paying 2 mana for it isn't.
Ingenious Skaab
3 2/3s with Prowess tend to feel pretty good, as the high toughness that can go even higher makes them tough to block, and the Skaab is a pretty nice threat even when you can't trigger Prowess, because your opponent has to respect it.
3 2/3s with Prowess tend to feel pretty good, as the high toughness that can go even higher makes them tough to block, and the Skaab is a pretty nice threat even when you can't trigger Prowess, because your opponent has to respect it.
Syndicate Messenger
2.5 4 mana for a 3/4 worth of flying stats is an okay deal.
2.5 4 mana for a 3/4 worth of flying stats is an okay deal.
Returned Centaur
1.5 The stat-line is bad, and there are better ways to load the graveyard in the format.
1.5 The stat-line is bad, and there are better ways to load the graveyard in the format.
Gruul Guildgate
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
Sungrace Pegasus
2 This is a nice place to put counters or Auras, but is fairly underwhelming otherwise.
2 This is a nice place to put counters or Auras, but is fairly underwhelming otherwise.
Pack 1 Pick 9: Azorius Guildgate
Blackbloom Rogue
3 This is a pretty decent creature when you need it to be -- and you can always play it as a land when it's in your opening hand.
3 This is a pretty decent creature when you need it to be -- and you can always play it as a land when it's in your opening hand.
Scion of Ugin
1 A 6-mana 4/4 flyer doesn't real move the needle in Limited these days.
1 A 6-mana 4/4 flyer doesn't real move the needle in Limited these days.
Commune with the Gods
1.5 This can load your graveyard while giving you some card selection, but you need to be a graveyard deck and/or enchantment deck for this to get there, and that's not going to happen often enough. Most of the time it's better to play a two mana 2/2.
1.5 This can load your graveyard while giving you some card selection, but you need to be a graveyard deck and/or enchantment deck for this to get there, and that's not going to happen often enough. Most of the time it's better to play a two mana 2/2.
Supernatural Stamina
2.5 This is a very nice trick because it's so cheap, and great in combat or against removal.
2.5 This is a very nice trick because it's so cheap, and great in combat or against removal.
Dreg Mangler
3 Scavenge means this gives you value in addition to being a solid three mana 3/3 haste. While it's not quite a 2-for-1, getting 3 +1/+1 counters is pretty close to a card of value.
3 Scavenge means this gives you value in addition to being a solid three mana 3/3 haste. While it's not quite a 2-for-1, getting 3 +1/+1 counters is pretty close to a card of value.
Azorius Guildgate
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
Cavern Lampad
2 As with many Bestow cards, both modes are kind of underwhelming, but the modality keeps it from being terrible.
2 As with many Bestow cards, both modes are kind of underwhelming, but the modality keeps it from being terrible.
Pack 1 Pick 10: Izzet Guildgate
Treasure Cruise
0 // 3.5 You need a graveyard deck, but if you have a good enough one this basically becomes Ancestral Recall.
0 // 3.5 You need a graveyard deck, but if you have a good enough one this basically becomes Ancestral Recall.
Baleful Eidolon
2 This doesn't feel great either way you cast it, but the flexibility keeps it from being too bad.
2 This doesn't feel great either way you cast it, but the flexibility keeps it from being too bad.
Nessian Asp
2 A 4-mana 4/5 with Reach plays reasonably well, and in the late game it turns into a very big monster.
2 A 4-mana 4/5 with Reach plays reasonably well, and in the late game it turns into a very big monster.
Syndicate Messenger
2.5 4 mana for a 3/4 worth of flying stats is an okay deal.
2.5 4 mana for a 3/4 worth of flying stats is an okay deal.
Makindi Sliderunner
2 A two mana 2/1 trample is bad -- and a two mana 3/2 trample isn't insane either. This makes you jump through hoops to get there.
2 A two mana 2/1 trample is bad -- and a two mana 3/2 trample isn't insane either. This makes you jump through hoops to get there.
Izzet Guildgate
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
Pack 1 Pick 11: Mizzium Skin
Dreadhound
3.5 This is great at stocking the graveyard, and it's ETB is usually going to make your opponent lose 1 life or more, while you get a pretty nice creature.
3.5 This is great at stocking the graveyard, and it's ETB is usually going to make your opponent lose 1 life or more, while you get a pretty nice creature.
Mizzium Skin
2.5 This is a nice cheap way to blank removal, and sometimes it can even win combat.
2.5 This is a nice cheap way to blank removal, and sometimes it can even win combat.
Sanitarium Skeleton
0 // 2.5 If you've got a sacrifice deck, this is a decent build around since it can constantly give you fodder, albeit inefficiently.
0 // 2.5 If you've got a sacrifice deck, this is a decent build around since it can constantly give you fodder, albeit inefficiently.
Scion of Ugin
1 A 6-mana 4/4 flyer doesn't real move the needle in Limited these days.
1 A 6-mana 4/4 flyer doesn't real move the needle in Limited these days.
Returned Centaur
1.5 The stat-line is bad, and there are better ways to load the graveyard in the format.
1.5 The stat-line is bad, and there are better ways to load the graveyard in the format.
Pack 1 Pick 12: Cavern Lampad
Crackdown Construct
0 The base stat-line is awful, and buffing the Construct isn't particularly easy.
0 The base stat-line is awful, and buffing the Construct isn't particularly easy.
Pelakka Predation
3 Having a free discard spell attached to a land is surprisingly good. You won't always hit something with Predation, but it's great disruption when you can -- and if you're pretty sure that effect won't do anything, you can always play it as a land.
3 Having a free discard spell attached to a land is surprisingly good. You won't always hit something with Predation, but it's great disruption when you can -- and if you're pretty sure that effect won't do anything, you can always play it as a land.
Scion of Ugin
1 A 6-mana 4/4 flyer doesn't real move the needle in Limited these days.
1 A 6-mana 4/4 flyer doesn't real move the needle in Limited these days.
Cavern Lampad
2 As with many Bestow cards, both modes are kind of underwhelming, but the modality keeps it from being terrible.
2 As with many Bestow cards, both modes are kind of underwhelming, but the modality keeps it from being terrible.
Pack 1 Pick 13: Possessed Skaab
Possessed Skaab
3 This is a bit clunky, but it's also a 2-for-1 that usually gets you back a very real card -- like a creature or removal spell.
3 This is a bit clunky, but it's also a 2-for-1 that usually gets you back a very real card -- like a creature or removal spell.
Devour Flesh
2 Edicts are nice, but letting your opponent gain life isn't the best. You can use it to gain life yourself in a pinch, but if you're forced to 2-for-1 yourself like that, you're probably losing.
2 Edicts are nice, but letting your opponent gain life isn't the best. You can use it to gain life yourself in a pinch, but if you're forced to 2-for-1 yourself like that, you're probably losing.
Sage's Reverie
1.5 Even in a format with an Aura theme, I'm skeptical of this. On it's own it's terrible, and putting a ton of Auras on a single creature is a good way to lose -- although, there is a decent amount of hexproof in the format.
1.5 Even in a format with an Aura theme, I'm skeptical of this. On it's own it's terrible, and putting a ton of Auras on a single creature is a good way to lose -- although, there is a decent amount of hexproof in the format.
Pack 1 Pick 14: Baleful Eidolon
Dark Deal
0 This kind of card is almost never going to do something good. Sure, maybe you make your opponent discard some cards they wanted to hold on to, but that upside is negated by the fact that you are the one who used the card -- and it's just as likely that they draw into what they were looking for.
0 This kind of card is almost never going to do something good. Sure, maybe you make your opponent discard some cards they wanted to hold on to, but that upside is negated by the fact that you are the one who used the card -- and it's just as likely that they draw into what they were looking for.
Baleful Eidolon
2 This doesn't feel great either way you cast it, but the flexibility keeps it from being too bad.
2 This doesn't feel great either way you cast it, but the flexibility keeps it from being too bad.
Pack 1 Pick 15: Undead Butler
Undead Butler
2.5 This sets up the graveyard nicely, and even has a decent effect to take advantage of that fact.
2.5 This sets up the graveyard nicely, and even has a decent effect to take advantage of that fact.
Pack 2 Pick 1: Courier's Briefcase
Kytheon, Hero of Akros
3.5 It's not always easy to transform him, although is indestructibility helps make it happen a little more often. The Planeswalker he becomes isn't really one who takes over the game, though. It's nice and can help you win, but it isn't going to turn the game on it's head or anything.
3.5 It's not always easy to transform him, although is indestructibility helps make it happen a little more often. The Planeswalker he becomes isn't really one who takes over the game, though. It's nice and can help you win, but it isn't going to turn the game on it's head or anything.
Nighthowler
2 This can be huge for sure, but it can also be super underwhelming.
2 This can be huge for sure, but it can also be super underwhelming.
Mogis's Warhound
2.0 Neither mode on this is especially exciting, but they are both passable. Playing it as an Aura on your creature does usually give you the best value. On occasion, you can put it on an opposing creature to force an attack, which is kind of funny.
2.0 Neither mode on this is especially exciting, but they are both passable. Playing it as an Aura on your creature does usually give you the best value. On occasion, you can put it on an opposing creature to force an attack, which is kind of funny.
Tenth District Legionnaire
3.5 This is a strong Heroic trigger, since it permanently grows the Legionnaire while also improving your draws -- which can often mean more heroic triggers.
3.5 This is a strong Heroic trigger, since it permanently grows the Legionnaire while also improving your draws -- which can often mean more heroic triggers.
Bloodfire Enforcers
2 If you have a nice mix of instants and sorceries this can be decent -- it becomes very difficult to block or attack into in combat. But it still dies to super cheap removal, and it frequently won't have these two keywords.
2 If you have a nice mix of instants and sorceries this can be decent -- it becomes very difficult to block or attack into in combat. But it still dies to super cheap removal, and it frequently won't have these two keywords.
Nivix Cyclops
2 This will be able to rumble as a 4/4 a decent chunk of the time in Blue-Red, but you're only getting a slightly above-rate deal when that's the case.
2 This will be able to rumble as a 4/4 a decent chunk of the time in Blue-Red, but you're only getting a slightly above-rate deal when that's the case.
Pilgrim's Eye
3.5 The body you get is bad, but it draws you a card that usually fixes your mana. It's great fixing.
3.5 The body you get is bad, but it draws you a card that usually fixes your mana. It's great fixing.
Gurmag Angler
1 // 3.0 If you are good at loading your graveyard, the Angler is a pretty nice payoff. It's just a big vanilla creature, but playing one of those for 1-3 mana is pretty nice.
1 // 3.0 If you are good at loading your graveyard, the Angler is a pretty nice payoff. It's just a big vanilla creature, but playing one of those for 1-3 mana is pretty nice.
Courier's Briefcase
2 This fixes your mana pretty effectively while also adding a body to the board. I wouldn't count on cashing it in for 3 cards, though.
2 This fixes your mana pretty effectively while also adding a body to the board. I wouldn't count on cashing it in for 3 cards, though.
Evolving Wilds
2.5 These give you good fixing, though there isn't much additional synergy in the format for it.
2.5 These give you good fixing, though there isn't much additional synergy in the format for it.
Gust of Wind
2.5 Paying two for this feels pretty incredible, as it replaces itself and gives you some nice tempo. Paying 4 makes it a little harder to feel good about the tempo, but that's a passable card too.
2.5 Paying two for this feels pretty incredible, as it replaces itself and gives you some nice tempo. Paying 4 makes it a little harder to feel good about the tempo, but that's a passable card too.
Returned Centaur
1.5 The stat-line is bad, and there are better ways to load the graveyard in the format.
1.5 The stat-line is bad, and there are better ways to load the graveyard in the format.
Sejiri Shelter
2.5 This is a more situational modal double-faced land, but it's always nice when a land has the potential to be a real card.
2.5 This is a more situational modal double-faced land, but it's always nice when a land has the potential to be a real card.
Rakdos Guildgate
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
Goblin Heelcutter
3.5 This was an excellent Common last time we saw it. Turning off blockers is an aggro deck's dream, and the Heelcutter can Dash in and do it every turn. Your opponent also has to account for it every single turn, or risk dying.
3.5 This was an excellent Common last time we saw it. Turning off blockers is an aggro deck's dream, and the Heelcutter can Dash in and do it every turn. Your opponent also has to account for it every single turn, or risk dying.
Pack 2 Pick 2: Fall of the Hammer
Knight of the White Orchid
3 This costing double white really holds it back, as you're unlikely to be able to consistently cast it on turn two. However, it does help with Devotion and a 2/2 first strike is pretty much always relevant.
3 This costing double white really holds it back, as you're unlikely to be able to consistently cast it on turn two. However, it does help with Devotion and a 2/2 first strike is pretty much always relevant.
Dreadhound
3.5 This is great at stocking the graveyard, and it's ETB is usually going to make your opponent lose 1 life or more, while you get a pretty nice creature.
3.5 This is great at stocking the graveyard, and it's ETB is usually going to make your opponent lose 1 life or more, while you get a pretty nice creature.
Bane of Bala Ged
2 Pseudo-annihilator is kind of cool, but it's understatted and expensive.
2 Pseudo-annihilator is kind of cool, but it's understatted and expensive.
Treasure Cruise
0 // 3.5 You need a graveyard deck, but if you have a good enough one this basically becomes Ancestral Recall.
0 // 3.5 You need a graveyard deck, but if you have a good enough one this basically becomes Ancestral Recall.
Makindi Sliderunner
2 A two mana 2/1 trample is bad -- and a two mana 3/2 trample isn't insane either. This makes you jump through hoops to get there.
2 A two mana 2/1 trample is bad -- and a two mana 3/2 trample isn't insane either. This makes you jump through hoops to get there.
Khalni Ambush
3 The Ambush is a mediocre removal spell, but having a land that can also be a removal spell is amazing.
3 The Ambush is a mediocre removal spell, but having a land that can also be a removal spell is amazing.
Fall of the Hammer
3.5 Getting this effect at instant speed for two mana has always played well. Sure, you need a creature -- and you have to be careful not to play it when your opponent can interact, but because it's an instant finding that window isn't too hard.
3.5 Getting this effect at instant speed for two mana has always played well. Sure, you need a creature -- and you have to be careful not to play it when your opponent can interact, but because it's an instant finding that window isn't too hard.
Voyaging Satyr
3 This is a nice way to ramp your mana.
3 This is a nice way to ramp your mana.
Dragon Mantle
2.5 This is a nice way to trigger heroic since it replaces itself, and that also makes it have a very reasonable baseline.
2.5 This is a nice way to trigger heroic since it replaces itself, and that also makes it have a very reasonable baseline.
Undead Butler
2.5 This sets up the graveyard nicely, and even has a decent effect to take advantage of that fact.
2.5 This sets up the graveyard nicely, and even has a decent effect to take advantage of that fact.
Compulsory Rest
3 This is solid removal spell, though not shutting off static and activated abilities can be a problem sometimes.
3 This is solid removal spell, though not shutting off static and activated abilities can be a problem sometimes.
Nemesis of Mortals
1 // 3 This is pretty bad in most decks, but if you're good at loading the graveyard it's a pretty slid threat.
1 // 3 This is pretty bad in most decks, but if you're good at loading the graveyard it's a pretty slid threat.
Izzet Guildgate
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
Thopter Engineer
3.5 Getting a 1/3 and a 1/1 with Haste for three mana is excellent, and this makes your other artifact creatures better, too.
3.5 Getting a 1/3 and a 1/1 with Haste for three mana is excellent, and this makes your other artifact creatures better, too.
Pack 2 Pick 3: Ashen Rider
Ashen Rider
4.5 This is hard to cast, but well worth the effort. It adds a big evasive body to the board that permanently eliminates a permanent, and even if your opponent kills it, they lose another one. Make sure to take Orzhov gates when you see them, though.
4.5 This is hard to cast, but well worth the effort. It adds a big evasive body to the board that permanently eliminates a permanent, and even if your opponent kills it, they lose another one. Make sure to take Orzhov gates when you see them, though.
Rescue from the Underworld
1.5 This is a reanimation spell that requires you to have a creature for it to do it's thing -- with the added upside of potentially triggering that creature's death and/or enters trigger. Still, it's way too fiddly to work out very often.
1.5 This is a reanimation spell that requires you to have a creature for it to do it's thing -- with the added upside of potentially triggering that creature's death and/or enters trigger. Still, it's way too fiddly to work out very often.
Jwari Disruption
3.5 A land that can also counter spells is amazing. Basically, if you have this early you can hold on to it and hope to snipe a spell in the first few turns -- and once you need a land, it can do that too.
3.5 A land that can also counter spells is amazing. Basically, if you have this early you can hold on to it and hope to snipe a spell in the first few turns -- and once you need a land, it can do that too.
Phalanx Tactics
2 This can help you trigger Heroic while buffing yoru whole board, and certainly has it's moments. However, if you don't have Heroic and/or don't have a built out board, it's just a bad combat trick.
2 This can help you trigger Heroic while buffing yoru whole board, and certainly has it's moments. However, if you don't have Heroic and/or don't have a built out board, it's just a bad combat trick.
Leafcrown Dryad
2.5 This feels fine on two, and Bestowing it for 4 is often going to make one of your creatures much more effective.
2.5 This feels fine on two, and Bestowing it for 4 is often going to make one of your creatures much more effective.
Artful Maneuver
1.5 This is pretty expensive for the buff, and while Rebound does mean you get it twice -- the second time your opponent knows it's coming.
1.5 This is pretty expensive for the buff, and while Rebound does mean you get it twice -- the second time your opponent knows it's coming.
Zendikar Incarnate
2 This is just a big vanilla creature. It'll never feel bad, but it'll never feel great either.
2 This is just a big vanilla creature. It'll never feel bad, but it'll never feel great either.
Cloudfin Raptor
2 This is awesome on turn one -- and a lot less awesome the rest of the game, since it's unlikely to grow quite as much. It's a terrible topdeck, too.
2 This is awesome on turn one -- and a lot less awesome the rest of the game, since it's unlikely to grow quite as much. It's a terrible topdeck, too.
Fall of the Hammer
3.5 Getting this effect at instant speed for two mana has always played well. Sure, you need a creature -- and you have to be careful not to play it when your opponent can interact, but because it's an instant finding that window isn't too hard.
3.5 Getting this effect at instant speed for two mana has always played well. Sure, you need a creature -- and you have to be careful not to play it when your opponent can interact, but because it's an instant finding that window isn't too hard.
Voyaging Satyr
3 This is a nice way to ramp your mana.
3 This is a nice way to ramp your mana.
Supernatural Stamina
2.5 This is a very nice trick because it's so cheap, and great in combat or against removal.
2.5 This is a very nice trick because it's so cheap, and great in combat or against removal.
Gruul Guildgate
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
Stampeding Elk Herd
2.5 This brings 5 power to the baord on it's own, so getting Formidable is certainly doable.
2.5 This brings 5 power to the baord on it's own, so getting Formidable is certainly doable.
Pack 2 Pick 4: Rakdos Guildgate
Bring to Light
1 This is here for 60-card Pioneer. It's tough having good enough mana and something worth tutoring up with this.
1 This is here for 60-card Pioneer. It's tough having good enough mana and something worth tutoring up with this.
Swift Warkite
2.5 You don't always have a creature that's worth bringing back, but when you do this feels pretty good.
2.5 You don't always have a creature that's worth bringing back, but when you do this feels pretty good.
Leafcrown Dryad
2.5 This feels fine on two, and Bestowing it for 4 is often going to make one of your creatures much more effective.
2.5 This feels fine on two, and Bestowing it for 4 is often going to make one of your creatures much more effective.
Skyrider Elf
2.5 This is a two mana 2/2 Flyer at worst, and with Gates in the format it isn't impossible for it to be a 4-mana 4/4 flyer or a 5-mana 5/5 flyer.
2.5 This is a two mana 2/2 Flyer at worst, and with Gates in the format it isn't impossible for it to be a 4-mana 4/4 flyer or a 5-mana 5/5 flyer.
Sejiri Shelter
2.5 This is a more situational modal double-faced land, but it's always nice when a land has the potential to be a real card.
2.5 This is a more situational modal double-faced land, but it's always nice when a land has the potential to be a real card.
Khalni Ambush
3 The Ambush is a mediocre removal spell, but having a land that can also be a removal spell is amazing.
3 The Ambush is a mediocre removal spell, but having a land that can also be a removal spell is amazing.
Ingenious Skaab
3 2/3s with Prowess tend to feel pretty good, as the high toughness that can go even higher makes them tough to block, and the Skaab is a pretty nice threat even when you can't trigger Prowess, because your opponent has to respect it.
3 2/3s with Prowess tend to feel pretty good, as the high toughness that can go even higher makes them tough to block, and the Skaab is a pretty nice threat even when you can't trigger Prowess, because your opponent has to respect it.
Devour Flesh
2 Edicts are nice, but letting your opponent gain life isn't the best. You can use it to gain life yourself in a pinch, but if you're forced to 2-for-1 yourself like that, you're probably losing.
2 Edicts are nice, but letting your opponent gain life isn't the best. You can use it to gain life yourself in a pinch, but if you're forced to 2-for-1 yourself like that, you're probably losing.
Akroan Crusader
2 This is a solid Heroic trigger, but the ones that make a creature better in combat are the truly backbreaking ones.
2 This is a solid Heroic trigger, but the ones that make a creature better in combat are the truly backbreaking ones.
Rimrock Knight
3.5 This was surprisignly great last time we saw it. The buff doesn't always let your creature survive combat, but even just chipping in for extra damage and then adding a 3/1 to the board is a pretty good deal.
3.5 This was surprisignly great last time we saw it. The buff doesn't always let your creature survive combat, but even just chipping in for extra damage and then adding a 3/1 to the board is a pretty good deal.
Rakdos Guildgate
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
Hushwing Gryff
2 This is symmetrical, so it can hurt your "enters" triggers too. But, it has Flash and you're the one who chooses when to cast it -- so you can do it when it's to your benefit. Still, blanking an "enters" trigger isn't always all that powerful.
2 This is symmetrical, so it can hurt your "enters" triggers too. But, it has Flash and you're the one who chooses when to cast it -- so you can do it when it's to your benefit. Still, blanking an "enters" trigger isn't always all that powerful.
Pack 2 Pick 5: Brood Monitor
Rapid Hybridization
0 This is terrible in Limited. If you use it on your opponent's creature, you effectively 2-for-1 yourself, and using it on your own is only moderately better.
0 This is terrible in Limited. If you use it on your opponent's creature, you effectively 2-for-1 yourself, and using it on your own is only moderately better.
Steam Augury
3 I don't love that this doesn't add to the board, but it's usually going to draw you a few card and stock your graveyard.
3 I don't love that this doesn't add to the board, but it's usually going to draw you a few card and stock your graveyard.
Destructive Revelry
0.5 This is a great sideboard card, but even though this format has a decent number of Enchantments, it isn't really enough for you to ever want this in your main deck.
0.5 This is a great sideboard card, but even though this format has a decent number of Enchantments, it isn't really enough for you to ever want this in your main deck.
Sanitarium Skeleton
0 // 2.5 If you've got a sacrifice deck, this is a decent build around since it can constantly give you fodder, albeit inefficiently.
0 // 2.5 If you've got a sacrifice deck, this is a decent build around since it can constantly give you fodder, albeit inefficiently.
Dreg Mangler
3 Scavenge means this gives you value in addition to being a solid three mana 3/3 haste. While it's not quite a 2-for-1, getting 3 +1/+1 counters is pretty close to a card of value.
3 Scavenge means this gives you value in addition to being a solid three mana 3/3 haste. While it's not quite a 2-for-1, getting 3 +1/+1 counters is pretty close to a card of value.
Heliod's Pilgrim
0 // 3 If you don't have a few Enchantments to get with this, it's unplayable. If you do have some Enchantments -- especially if they are creatures or removal spells -- this ends up being a really good Common.
0 // 3 If you don't have a few Enchantments to get with this, it's unplayable. If you do have some Enchantments -- especially if they are creatures or removal spells -- this ends up being a really good Common.
Treasure Cruise
0 // 3.5 You need a graveyard deck, but if you have a good enough one this basically becomes Ancestral Recall.
0 // 3.5 You need a graveyard deck, but if you have a good enough one this basically becomes Ancestral Recall.
Gladecover Scout
1 // 3.5 This is a great creature to augment thanks to hexproof, but it's very bad if you can't do that.
1 // 3.5 This is a great creature to augment thanks to hexproof, but it's very bad if you can't do that.
Zendikar Incarnate
2 This is just a big vanilla creature. It'll never feel bad, but it'll never feel great either.
2 This is just a big vanilla creature. It'll never feel bad, but it'll never feel great either.
Golgari Guildgate
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
Brood Monitor
4.5 This gives you a ton of value for 6 mana. Even if those tokens couldn't be sacrificed for mana, this is a card that gives you four very real bodies. If you're behind, it brings you to parity. If you're at parity it pulls you ahead, and if you're ahead, the game's probably over.
4.5 This gives you a ton of value for 6 mana. Even if those tokens couldn't be sacrificed for mana, this is a card that gives you four very real bodies. If you're behind, it brings you to parity. If you're at parity it pulls you ahead, and if you're ahead, the game's probably over.
Pack 2 Pick 6: Ovalchase Daredevil
Kabira Takedown
3.5 This is a land that can also be a removal spell. Sure, the removal is conditional -- but if you draw this in the late game you're going to be very happy you didn't draw a regular land, as this is likely to kill something for two mana. The modality here is great.
3.5 This is a land that can also be a removal spell. Sure, the removal is conditional -- but if you draw this in the late game you're going to be very happy you didn't draw a regular land, as this is likely to kill something for two mana. The modality here is great.
Alpha Authority
1 This looks pretty exciting -- but it's kind of like Swiftfoot Boots -- that is to say, awful in Limited, because the creature you put it on already has to be good, and that really limits it's utility.
1 This looks pretty exciting -- but it's kind of like Swiftfoot Boots -- that is to say, awful in Limited, because the creature you put it on already has to be good, and that really limits it's utility.
Sejiri Shelter
2.5 This is a more situational modal double-faced land, but it's always nice when a land has the potential to be a real card.
2.5 This is a more situational modal double-faced land, but it's always nice when a land has the potential to be a real card.
Unravel the Aether
0.5 This is mostly sideboard material in the format. You can't count on there being a permanent it can hit.
0.5 This is mostly sideboard material in the format. You can't count on there being a permanent it can hit.
Zendikar Incarnate
2 This is just a big vanilla creature. It'll never feel bad, but it'll never feel great either.
2 This is just a big vanilla creature. It'll never feel bad, but it'll never feel great either.
Pelakka Predation
3 Having a free discard spell attached to a land is surprisingly good. You won't always hit something with Predation, but it's great disruption when you can -- and if you're pretty sure that effect won't do anything, you can always play it as a land.
3 Having a free discard spell attached to a land is surprisingly good. You won't always hit something with Predation, but it's great disruption when you can -- and if you're pretty sure that effect won't do anything, you can always play it as a land.
Opal Lake Gatekeepers
0 // 2.5 This is a solid build around for gates decks, where it's virtually always a 2-for-1.
0 // 2.5 This is a solid build around for gates decks, where it's virtually always a 2-for-1.
Martial Glory
2 This is here to enable Heroic stuff in the Red-White deck, and it's a passable combat trick even when you're not pulling that off.
2 This is here to enable Heroic stuff in the Red-White deck, and it's a passable combat trick even when you're not pulling that off.
Bloodfire Enforcers
2 If you have a nice mix of instants and sorceries this can be decent -- it becomes very difficult to block or attack into in combat. But it still dies to super cheap removal, and it frequently won't have these two keywords.
2 If you have a nice mix of instants and sorceries this can be decent -- it becomes very difficult to block or attack into in combat. But it still dies to super cheap removal, and it frequently won't have these two keywords.
Ovalchase Daredevil
1 // 3.5 This was pretty good back in Kaladesh, but that was an artifact-heavy set. This one isn't. Still, even with just like 3 artifacts in your deck it's a pretty good card, since a 4/2 is relevant virtually all game long.
1 // 3.5 This was pretty good back in Kaladesh, but that was an artifact-heavy set. This one isn't. Still, even with just like 3 artifacts in your deck it's a pretty good card, since a 4/2 is relevant virtually all game long.
Pack 2 Pick 7: Imperious Oligarch
Kabira Takedown
3.5 This is a land that can also be a removal spell. Sure, the removal is conditional -- but if you draw this in the late game you're going to be very happy you didn't draw a regular land, as this is likely to kill something for two mana. The modality here is great.
3.5 This is a land that can also be a removal spell. Sure, the removal is conditional -- but if you draw this in the late game you're going to be very happy you didn't draw a regular land, as this is likely to kill something for two mana. The modality here is great.
Coordinated Assault
3 This can generate 2-for-1s incredibly efficiently, and it gets even better in a heroic format.
3 This can generate 2-for-1s incredibly efficiently, and it gets even better in a heroic format.
Blackbloom Rogue
3 This is a pretty decent creature when you need it to be -- and you can always play it as a land when it's in your opening hand.
3 This is a pretty decent creature when you need it to be -- and you can always play it as a land when it's in your opening hand.
Selesnya Charm
3.5 Making a 2/2 for two is fine, and while the other two modes are more situational, they are both great in the right situation.
3.5 Making a 2/2 for two is fine, and while the other two modes are more situational, they are both great in the right situation.
Silumgar Butcher
2.5 The stat-line is bad, but there's plenty of fodder in the format -- and in a pinch it can sacrifice itself for the effect.
2.5 The stat-line is bad, but there's plenty of fodder in the format -- and in a pinch it can sacrifice itself for the effect.
Nessian Asp
2 A 4-mana 4/5 with Reach plays reasonably well, and in the late game it turns into a very big monster.
2 A 4-mana 4/5 with Reach plays reasonably well, and in the late game it turns into a very big monster.
Ghostblade Eidolon
1.5 A three mana 1/1 with double strike is way too fragile to be great, and paying 6 for +1/+1 and double strike doesn't really move the needle either.
1.5 A three mana 1/1 with double strike is way too fragile to be great, and paying 6 for +1/+1 and double strike doesn't really move the needle either.
Halo Scarab
1.5 This was pretty weak last time we saw it, and it will be here too. It has bad stats, and while getting Treasure can be nice, paying 2 mana for it isn't.
1.5 This was pretty weak last time we saw it, and it will be here too. It has bad stats, and while getting Treasure can be nice, paying 2 mana for it isn't.
Imperious Oligarch
3.5 This is ultimately 2 mana for a 2/1 with Vigilance and a 1/1 Flyer. While you don't get both of those at the same time, the fact remains that you are getting a great rate.
3.5 This is ultimately 2 mana for a 2/1 with Vigilance and a 1/1 Flyer. While you don't get both of those at the same time, the fact remains that you are getting a great rate.
Pack 2 Pick 8: Darksteel Ingot
Tormented Hero
2 This is a fine one drop for Black aggro decks.
2 This is a fine one drop for Black aggro decks.
Valakut Awakening
3 This is a great design for a MDFC, since early you'll just play it as a land -- and late, it can become a pretty nice draw spell.
3 This is a great design for a MDFC, since early you'll just play it as a land -- and late, it can become a pretty nice draw spell.
Darksteel Ingot
1.5 3-mana mana rocks are rarely good in Limited, but if you really need fixing or ramp, you'll use this.
1.5 3-mana mana rocks are rarely good in Limited, but if you really need fixing or ramp, you'll use this.
Lagonna-Band Trailblazer
2 A one mana 0/4 is kind of brutal, but buffing this is plenty doable in the format.
2 A one mana 0/4 is kind of brutal, but buffing this is plenty doable in the format.
Nemesis of Mortals
1 // 3 This is pretty bad in most decks, but if you're good at loading the graveyard it's a pretty slid threat.
1 // 3 This is pretty bad in most decks, but if you're good at loading the graveyard it's a pretty slid threat.
Consider
2.5 This is always a nice card selection spell, and in a format with plenty of Prowess and similar effects, it'll be solid.
2.5 This is always a nice card selection spell, and in a format with plenty of Prowess and similar effects, it'll be solid.
Heliod's Pilgrim
0 // 3 If you don't have a few Enchantments to get with this, it's unplayable. If you do have some Enchantments -- especially if they are creatures or removal spells -- this ends up being a really good Common.
0 // 3 If you don't have a few Enchantments to get with this, it's unplayable. If you do have some Enchantments -- especially if they are creatures or removal spells -- this ends up being a really good Common.
Clutch of Currents
3 This is solid when you only spend one mana on it, and great when you can also get a 3/3 out of the deal.
3 This is solid when you only spend one mana on it, and great when you can also get a 3/3 out of the deal.
Pack 2 Pick 9: Evolving Wilds
Mogis's Warhound
2.0 Neither mode on this is especially exciting, but they are both passable. Playing it as an Aura on your creature does usually give you the best value. On occasion, you can put it on an opposing creature to force an attack, which is kind of funny.
2.0 Neither mode on this is especially exciting, but they are both passable. Playing it as an Aura on your creature does usually give you the best value. On occasion, you can put it on an opposing creature to force an attack, which is kind of funny.
Bloodfire Enforcers
2 If you have a nice mix of instants and sorceries this can be decent -- it becomes very difficult to block or attack into in combat. But it still dies to super cheap removal, and it frequently won't have these two keywords.
2 If you have a nice mix of instants and sorceries this can be decent -- it becomes very difficult to block or attack into in combat. But it still dies to super cheap removal, and it frequently won't have these two keywords.
Nivix Cyclops
2 This will be able to rumble as a 4/4 a decent chunk of the time in Blue-Red, but you're only getting a slightly above-rate deal when that's the case.
2 This will be able to rumble as a 4/4 a decent chunk of the time in Blue-Red, but you're only getting a slightly above-rate deal when that's the case.
Gurmag Angler
1 // 3.0 If you are good at loading your graveyard, the Angler is a pretty nice payoff. It's just a big vanilla creature, but playing one of those for 1-3 mana is pretty nice.
1 // 3.0 If you are good at loading your graveyard, the Angler is a pretty nice payoff. It's just a big vanilla creature, but playing one of those for 1-3 mana is pretty nice.
Evolving Wilds
2.5 These give you good fixing, though there isn't much additional synergy in the format for it.
2.5 These give you good fixing, though there isn't much additional synergy in the format for it.
Gust of Wind
2.5 Paying two for this feels pretty incredible, as it replaces itself and gives you some nice tempo. Paying 4 makes it a little harder to feel good about the tempo, but that's a passable card too.
2.5 Paying two for this feels pretty incredible, as it replaces itself and gives you some nice tempo. Paying 4 makes it a little harder to feel good about the tempo, but that's a passable card too.
Returned Centaur
1.5 The stat-line is bad, and there are better ways to load the graveyard in the format.
1.5 The stat-line is bad, and there are better ways to load the graveyard in the format.
Pack 2 Pick 10: Izzet Guildgate
Treasure Cruise
0 // 3.5 You need a graveyard deck, but if you have a good enough one this basically becomes Ancestral Recall.
0 // 3.5 You need a graveyard deck, but if you have a good enough one this basically becomes Ancestral Recall.
Makindi Sliderunner
2 A two mana 2/1 trample is bad -- and a two mana 3/2 trample isn't insane either. This makes you jump through hoops to get there.
2 A two mana 2/1 trample is bad -- and a two mana 3/2 trample isn't insane either. This makes you jump through hoops to get there.
Khalni Ambush
3 The Ambush is a mediocre removal spell, but having a land that can also be a removal spell is amazing.
3 The Ambush is a mediocre removal spell, but having a land that can also be a removal spell is amazing.
Undead Butler
2.5 This sets up the graveyard nicely, and even has a decent effect to take advantage of that fact.
2.5 This sets up the graveyard nicely, and even has a decent effect to take advantage of that fact.
Nemesis of Mortals
1 // 3 This is pretty bad in most decks, but if you're good at loading the graveyard it's a pretty slid threat.
1 // 3 This is pretty bad in most decks, but if you're good at loading the graveyard it's a pretty slid threat.
Izzet Guildgate
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
Pack 2 Pick 11: Cloudfin Raptor
Artful Maneuver
1.5 This is pretty expensive for the buff, and while Rebound does mean you get it twice -- the second time your opponent knows it's coming.
1.5 This is pretty expensive for the buff, and while Rebound does mean you get it twice -- the second time your opponent knows it's coming.
Zendikar Incarnate
2 This is just a big vanilla creature. It'll never feel bad, but it'll never feel great either.
2 This is just a big vanilla creature. It'll never feel bad, but it'll never feel great either.
Cloudfin Raptor
2 This is awesome on turn one -- and a lot less awesome the rest of the game, since it's unlikely to grow quite as much. It's a terrible topdeck, too.
2 This is awesome on turn one -- and a lot less awesome the rest of the game, since it's unlikely to grow quite as much. It's a terrible topdeck, too.
Supernatural Stamina
2.5 This is a very nice trick because it's so cheap, and great in combat or against removal.
2.5 This is a very nice trick because it's so cheap, and great in combat or against removal.
Stampeding Elk Herd
2.5 This brings 5 power to the baord on it's own, so getting Formidable is certainly doable.
2.5 This brings 5 power to the baord on it's own, so getting Formidable is certainly doable.
Pack 2 Pick 12: Hushwing Gryff
Swift Warkite
2.5 You don't always have a creature that's worth bringing back, but when you do this feels pretty good.
2.5 You don't always have a creature that's worth bringing back, but when you do this feels pretty good.
Ingenious Skaab
3 2/3s with Prowess tend to feel pretty good, as the high toughness that can go even higher makes them tough to block, and the Skaab is a pretty nice threat even when you can't trigger Prowess, because your opponent has to respect it.
3 2/3s with Prowess tend to feel pretty good, as the high toughness that can go even higher makes them tough to block, and the Skaab is a pretty nice threat even when you can't trigger Prowess, because your opponent has to respect it.
Devour Flesh
2 Edicts are nice, but letting your opponent gain life isn't the best. You can use it to gain life yourself in a pinch, but if you're forced to 2-for-1 yourself like that, you're probably losing.
2 Edicts are nice, but letting your opponent gain life isn't the best. You can use it to gain life yourself in a pinch, but if you're forced to 2-for-1 yourself like that, you're probably losing.
Hushwing Gryff
2 This is symmetrical, so it can hurt your "enters" triggers too. But, it has Flash and you're the one who chooses when to cast it -- so you can do it when it's to your benefit. Still, blanking an "enters" trigger isn't always all that powerful.
2 This is symmetrical, so it can hurt your "enters" triggers too. But, it has Flash and you're the one who chooses when to cast it -- so you can do it when it's to your benefit. Still, blanking an "enters" trigger isn't always all that powerful.
Pack 2 Pick 13: Gladecover Scout
Sanitarium Skeleton
0 // 2.5 If you've got a sacrifice deck, this is a decent build around since it can constantly give you fodder, albeit inefficiently.
0 // 2.5 If you've got a sacrifice deck, this is a decent build around since it can constantly give you fodder, albeit inefficiently.
Gladecover Scout
1 // 3.5 This is a great creature to augment thanks to hexproof, but it's very bad if you can't do that.
1 // 3.5 This is a great creature to augment thanks to hexproof, but it's very bad if you can't do that.
Zendikar Incarnate
2 This is just a big vanilla creature. It'll never feel bad, but it'll never feel great either.
2 This is just a big vanilla creature. It'll never feel bad, but it'll never feel great either.
Pack 2 Pick 14: Unravel the Aether
Unravel the Aether
0.5 This is mostly sideboard material in the format. You can't count on there being a permanent it can hit.
0.5 This is mostly sideboard material in the format. You can't count on there being a permanent it can hit.
Pelakka Predation
3 Having a free discard spell attached to a land is surprisingly good. You won't always hit something with Predation, but it's great disruption when you can -- and if you're pretty sure that effect won't do anything, you can always play it as a land.
3 Having a free discard spell attached to a land is surprisingly good. You won't always hit something with Predation, but it's great disruption when you can -- and if you're pretty sure that effect won't do anything, you can always play it as a land.
Pack 2 Pick 15: Ghostblade Eidolon
Ghostblade Eidolon
1.5 A three mana 1/1 with double strike is way too fragile to be great, and paying 6 for +1/+1 and double strike doesn't really move the needle either.
1.5 A three mana 1/1 with double strike is way too fragile to be great, and paying 6 for +1/+1 and double strike doesn't really move the needle either.
Pack 3 Pick 1: Woodland Wanderer
Woodland Wanderer
4 This'll be a 4-mana 4/4 with vigilance and trample without you even having to try, and if you have more colors of mana around it becomes even more efficient.
4 This'll be a 4-mana 4/4 with vigilance and trample without you even having to try, and if you have more colors of mana around it becomes even more efficient.
Murmuring Mystic
1.5 // 3.5 This is a pretty great spell build around. A 1/1 flyer is worth pretty close to an entire card, so stapling that to a spell is pretty amazing.
1.5 // 3.5 This is a pretty great spell build around. A 1/1 flyer is worth pretty close to an entire card, so stapling that to a spell is pretty amazing.
Monastery Swiftspear
3.5 While not as good in Limited as it is in 60-card formats, the Swiftspear is still very good. It does a ton of damage early, and prowess helps keep it relevant all game.
3.5 While not as good in Limited as it is in 60-card formats, the Swiftspear is still very good. It does a ton of damage early, and prowess helps keep it relevant all game.
Tomebound Lich
3.5 This will always improve your hand while giving you a body that gains you life and can trade with anything -- that's all stuff Blue/Black decks are happy to do.
3.5 This will always improve your hand while giving you a body that gains you life and can trade with anything -- that's all stuff Blue/Black decks are happy to do.
Opal Lake Gatekeepers
0 // 2.5 This is a solid build around for gates decks, where it's virtually always a 2-for-1.
0 // 2.5 This is a solid build around for gates decks, where it's virtually always a 2-for-1.
Rimrock Knight
3.5 This was surprisignly great last time we saw it. The buff doesn't always let your creature survive combat, but even just chipping in for extra damage and then adding a 3/1 to the board is a pretty good deal.
3.5 This was surprisignly great last time we saw it. The buff doesn't always let your creature survive combat, but even just chipping in for extra damage and then adding a 3/1 to the board is a pretty good deal.
Supernatural Stamina
2.5 This is a very nice trick because it's so cheap, and great in combat or against removal.
2.5 This is a very nice trick because it's so cheap, and great in combat or against removal.
Darksteel Ingot
1.5 3-mana mana rocks are rarely good in Limited, but if you really need fixing or ramp, you'll use this.
1.5 3-mana mana rocks are rarely good in Limited, but if you really need fixing or ramp, you'll use this.
Nemesis of Mortals
1 // 3 This is pretty bad in most decks, but if you're good at loading the graveyard it's a pretty slid threat.
1 // 3 This is pretty bad in most decks, but if you're good at loading the graveyard it's a pretty slid threat.
Ardenvale Tactician
2.5 This is pretty nice in aggro decks, as it can get a couple blockers out of the way and then add a reasonable creature to the board.
2.5 This is pretty nice in aggro decks, as it can get a couple blockers out of the way and then add a reasonable creature to the board.
Artful Maneuver
1.5 This is pretty expensive for the buff, and while Rebound does mean you get it twice -- the second time your opponent knows it's coming.
1.5 This is pretty expensive for the buff, and while Rebound does mean you get it twice -- the second time your opponent knows it's coming.
Skyrider Elf
2.5 This is a two mana 2/2 Flyer at worst, and with Gates in the format it isn't impossible for it to be a 4-mana 4/4 flyer or a 5-mana 5/5 flyer.
2.5 This is a two mana 2/2 Flyer at worst, and with Gates in the format it isn't impossible for it to be a 4-mana 4/4 flyer or a 5-mana 5/5 flyer.
Essence Scatter
3 This counters most spells and is easy to cast. It can generate some great tempo.
3 This counters most spells and is easy to cast. It can generate some great tempo.
Boros Guildgate
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
Goblin Heelcutter
3.5 This was an excellent Common last time we saw it. Turning off blockers is an aggro deck's dream, and the Heelcutter can Dash in and do it every turn. Your opponent also has to account for it every single turn, or risk dying.
3.5 This was an excellent Common last time we saw it. Turning off blockers is an aggro deck's dream, and the Heelcutter can Dash in and do it every turn. Your opponent also has to account for it every single turn, or risk dying.
Pack 3 Pick 2: Imperious Oligarch
Ruric Thar, the Unbowed
3.5 This has an imposing stat-line, although the fact it has to attack will sometimes backfire -- like if your opponent has a death toucher. But most of the time, they won't have one creature that can take it down anyway, and the 6 damage trigger comes up a decent chunk of the time, too.
3.5 This has an imposing stat-line, although the fact it has to attack will sometimes backfire -- like if your opponent has a death toucher. But most of the time, they won't have one creature that can take it down anyway, and the 6 damage trigger comes up a decent chunk of the time, too.
Zulaport Cutthroat
3 There are several free sacrifice outlets in the format that can run wild with this, and the effect is pretty solid anyway.
3 There are several free sacrifice outlets in the format that can run wild with this, and the effect is pretty solid anyway.
Jhessian Thief
2.5 This was surprisingly hard to get in with last time we saw it, but when you do it feels pretty amazing.
2.5 This was surprisingly hard to get in with last time we saw it, but when you do it feels pretty amazing.
Fell Stinger
4 In a pinch this can sacrifice itself for the trigger, and if you have something really expendable it can be particularly great. Holding on to the death touch creature is nice, because it means you can always trade with this.
4 In a pinch this can sacrifice itself for the trigger, and if you have something really expendable it can be particularly great. Holding on to the death touch creature is nice, because it means you can always trade with this.
Mogis's Warhound
2.0 Neither mode on this is especially exciting, but they are both passable. Playing it as an Aura on your creature does usually give you the best value. On occasion, you can put it on an opposing creature to force an attack, which is kind of funny.
2.0 Neither mode on this is especially exciting, but they are both passable. Playing it as an Aura on your creature does usually give you the best value. On occasion, you can put it on an opposing creature to force an attack, which is kind of funny.
Lyev Skyknight
3.5 This removes a creature from the equation for a whole turn, while adding a pretty solid body to the board. That's some seroius tempo.
3.5 This removes a creature from the equation for a whole turn, while adding a pretty solid body to the board. That's some seroius tempo.
Undead Butler
2.5 This sets up the graveyard nicely, and even has a decent effect to take advantage of that fact.
2.5 This sets up the graveyard nicely, and even has a decent effect to take advantage of that fact.
Boundary Lands Ranger
3 This has a solid baseline and can really let you dig deeper into your deck by the mid-game.
3 This has a solid baseline and can really let you dig deeper into your deck by the mid-game.
Syndicate Messenger
2.5 4 mana for a 3/4 worth of flying stats is an okay deal.
2.5 4 mana for a 3/4 worth of flying stats is an okay deal.
Windrider Patrol
2 This is a bit overcosted, but the combat damage trigger is nice.
2 This is a bit overcosted, but the combat damage trigger is nice.
Heliod's Pilgrim
0 // 3 If you don't have a few Enchantments to get with this, it's unplayable. If you do have some Enchantments -- especially if they are creatures or removal spells -- this ends up being a really good Common.
0 // 3 If you don't have a few Enchantments to get with this, it's unplayable. If you do have some Enchantments -- especially if they are creatures or removal spells -- this ends up being a really good Common.
Imperious Oligarch
3.5 This is ultimately 2 mana for a 2/1 with Vigilance and a 1/1 Flyer. While you don't get both of those at the same time, the fact remains that you are getting a great rate.
3.5 This is ultimately 2 mana for a 2/1 with Vigilance and a 1/1 Flyer. While you don't get both of those at the same time, the fact remains that you are getting a great rate.
Boros Guildgate
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
Oath of Liliana
2.5 A three-mana edict isn't great, but this has useful typing, and her planeswalker payoff effect is great, since it gives you a free way to protect your planeswalkers.
2.5 A three-mana edict isn't great, but this has useful typing, and her planeswalker payoff effect is great, since it gives you a free way to protect your planeswalkers.
Pack 3 Pick 3: Skyrider Elf
Maze's End
0 Even in a format with Gates, you're not going to win the game with this, and it isn't good enough at fixing your mana, either.
0 Even in a format with Gates, you're not going to win the game with this, and it isn't good enough at fixing your mana, either.
Rogue's Passage
1.5 This is a decent late-game mana sink, but it hurts your mana base in the mean time.
1.5 This is a decent late-game mana sink, but it hurts your mana base in the mean time.
Illusory Angel
2 It's not always easy to set this up -- it's a terrible top deck, for example. But if you can play something that costs one on turn 4, and then play this it feels like a quality turn. Problem is it just doesn't always line up.
2 It's not always easy to set this up -- it's a terrible top deck, for example. But if you can play something that costs one on turn 4, and then play this it feels like a quality turn. Problem is it just doesn't always line up.
Nemesis of Mortals
1 // 3 This is pretty bad in most decks, but if you're good at loading the graveyard it's a pretty slid threat.
1 // 3 This is pretty bad in most decks, but if you're good at loading the graveyard it's a pretty slid threat.
Sanitarium Skeleton
0 // 2.5 If you've got a sacrifice deck, this is a decent build around since it can constantly give you fodder, albeit inefficiently.
0 // 2.5 If you've got a sacrifice deck, this is a decent build around since it can constantly give you fodder, albeit inefficiently.
Mizzium Skin
2.5 This is a nice cheap way to blank removal, and sometimes it can even win combat.
2.5 This is a nice cheap way to blank removal, and sometimes it can even win combat.
Skyrider Elf
2.5 This is a two mana 2/2 Flyer at worst, and with Gates in the format it isn't impossible for it to be a 4-mana 4/4 flyer or a 5-mana 5/5 flyer.
2.5 This is a two mana 2/2 Flyer at worst, and with Gates in the format it isn't impossible for it to be a 4-mana 4/4 flyer or a 5-mana 5/5 flyer.
Lagonna-Band Trailblazer
2 A one mana 0/4 is kind of brutal, but buffing this is plenty doable in the format.
2 A one mana 0/4 is kind of brutal, but buffing this is plenty doable in the format.
Scion of Ugin
1 A 6-mana 4/4 flyer doesn't real move the needle in Limited these days.
1 A 6-mana 4/4 flyer doesn't real move the needle in Limited these days.
Gateway Plaza
2.5 This is a bit clunky since you need to effectively spend a mana on it, but the gate typing definitely matters.
2.5 This is a bit clunky since you need to effectively spend a mana on it, but the gate typing definitely matters.
Boundary Lands Ranger
3 This has a solid baseline and can really let you dig deeper into your deck by the mid-game.
3 This has a solid baseline and can really let you dig deeper into your deck by the mid-game.
Boros Guildgate
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
Oath of Gideon
2 This has a kind of passable baseline, and while the Planeswalker bonus sheet is active, you might actually be able to get some additional value out of it.
2 This has a kind of passable baseline, and while the Planeswalker bonus sheet is active, you might actually be able to get some additional value out of it.
Pack 3 Pick 4: Simic Guildgate
Urborg, Tomb of Yawgmoth
2.5 This can make it easy for you to have Black mana -- although it makes it easy for your opponent too. It's mostly a swamp with upside, though, although it has way less upside in Limited than in other formats.
2.5 This can make it easy for you to have Black mana -- although it makes it easy for your opponent too. It's mostly a swamp with upside, though, although it has way less upside in Limited than in other formats.
Pulse of Murasa
3 This is a great recursive spell because it's an instant, and it gains you a ton of life -- which gives you the time to use the card that you brought back.
3 This is a great recursive spell because it's an instant, and it gains you a ton of life -- which gives you the time to use the card that you brought back.
Rapid Hybridization
0 This is terrible in Limited. If you use it on your opponent's creature, you effectively 2-for-1 yourself, and using it on your own is only moderately better.
0 This is terrible in Limited. If you use it on your opponent's creature, you effectively 2-for-1 yourself, and using it on your own is only moderately better.
Aspect of Hydra
1.5 This can be a pretty potent combat trick -- but it can also be a blank card. And you need three green pips just for it to be Giant Growth, so it's tough to make it worthwhile in Limited.
1.5 This can be a pretty potent combat trick -- but it can also be a blank card. And you need three green pips just for it to be Giant Growth, so it's tough to make it worthwhile in Limited.
Sanitarium Skeleton
0 // 2.5 If you've got a sacrifice deck, this is a decent build around since it can constantly give you fodder, albeit inefficiently.
0 // 2.5 If you've got a sacrifice deck, this is a decent build around since it can constantly give you fodder, albeit inefficiently.
Windrider Patrol
2 This is a bit overcosted, but the combat damage trigger is nice.
2 This is a bit overcosted, but the combat damage trigger is nice.
Keening Apparition
2 This has okay stats, and the format has enough Enchantments for this ability to be relevant sometimes.
2 This has okay stats, and the format has enough Enchantments for this ability to be relevant sometimes.
Lyev Skyknight
3.5 This removes a creature from the equation for a whole turn, while adding a pretty solid body to the board. That's some seroius tempo.
3.5 This removes a creature from the equation for a whole turn, while adding a pretty solid body to the board. That's some seroius tempo.
Selesnya Charm
3.5 Making a 2/2 for two is fine, and while the other two modes are more situational, they are both great in the right situation.
3.5 Making a 2/2 for two is fine, and while the other two modes are more situational, they are both great in the right situation.
Fall of the Hammer
3.5 Getting this effect at instant speed for two mana has always played well. Sure, you need a creature -- and you have to be careful not to play it when your opponent can interact, but because it's an instant finding that window isn't too hard.
3.5 Getting this effect at instant speed for two mana has always played well. Sure, you need a creature -- and you have to be careful not to play it when your opponent can interact, but because it's an instant finding that window isn't too hard.
Simic Guildgate
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
Sungrace Pegasus
2 This is a nice place to put counters or Auras, but is fairly underwhelming otherwise.
2 This is a nice place to put counters or Auras, but is fairly underwhelming otherwise.
Pack 3 Pick 5: Ubul Sar Gatekeepers
Lotleth Troll
4.5 This is very difficult to deal with if your opponent has mana up, and it's ability to grow makes it a very real threat. That's a devastating combination.
4.5 This is very difficult to deal with if your opponent has mana up, and it's ability to grow makes it a very real threat. That's a devastating combination.
Ubul Sar Gatekeepers
0 // 3 This is unplayable if you don't have like 6+ gates, but if you do it's a pretty nice payoff.
0 // 3 This is unplayable if you don't have like 6+ gates, but if you do it's a pretty nice payoff.
Scion of Ugin
1 A 6-mana 4/4 flyer doesn't real move the needle in Limited these days.
1 A 6-mana 4/4 flyer doesn't real move the needle in Limited these days.
Fallaji Archaeologist
3 This was a SUPER good common last time we saw it. If you're in Blue with lots of spells, you're going to frequently make this a two mana 0/3 that draws a card on ETB, and the fail case is a two mana 1/4 that helps you load the graveyard.
3 This was a SUPER good common last time we saw it. If you're in Blue with lots of spells, you're going to frequently make this a two mana 0/3 that draws a card on ETB, and the fail case is a two mana 1/4 that helps you load the graveyard.
Halo Scarab
1.5 This was pretty weak last time we saw it, and it will be here too. It has bad stats, and while getting Treasure can be nice, paying 2 mana for it isn't.
1.5 This was pretty weak last time we saw it, and it will be here too. It has bad stats, and while getting Treasure can be nice, paying 2 mana for it isn't.
Essence Scatter
3 This counters most spells and is easy to cast. It can generate some great tempo.
3 This counters most spells and is easy to cast. It can generate some great tempo.
Supernatural Stamina
2.5 This is a very nice trick because it's so cheap, and great in combat or against removal.
2.5 This is a very nice trick because it's so cheap, and great in combat or against removal.
Leafcrown Dryad
2.5 This feels fine on two, and Bestowing it for 4 is often going to make one of your creatures much more effective.
2.5 This feels fine on two, and Bestowing it for 4 is often going to make one of your creatures much more effective.
Rimrock Knight
3.5 This was surprisignly great last time we saw it. The buff doesn't always let your creature survive combat, but even just chipping in for extra damage and then adding a 3/1 to the board is a pretty good deal.
3.5 This was surprisignly great last time we saw it. The buff doesn't always let your creature survive combat, but even just chipping in for extra damage and then adding a 3/1 to the board is a pretty good deal.
Dimir Guildgate
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
3 These offer great fixing, and the format has tons of gate payoffs, too.
Cavern Lampad
2 As with many Bestow cards, both modes are kind of underwhelming, but the modality keeps it from being terrible.
2 As with many Bestow cards, both modes are kind of underwhelming, but the modality keeps it from being terrible.
Pack 3 Pick 6: Stampeding Elk Herd
Silence
0 This style of card is never good in Limited. You go down a card for a highly situational effect.
0 This style of card is never good in Limited. You go down a card for a highly situational effect.
Blackbloom Rogue
3 This is a pretty decent creature when you need it to be -- and you can always play it as a land when it's in your opening hand.
3 This is a pretty decent creature when you need it to be -- and you can always play it as a land when it's in your opening hand.
Crypt Incursion
0 This can gain you a bunch of life, but a graveyard has to be well-stocked, and just gaining life is rarely worth a card anyway.
0 This can gain you a bunch of life, but a graveyard has to be well-stocked, and just gaining life is rarely worth a card anyway.
Dragon Mantle
2.5 This is a nice way to trigger heroic since it replaces itself, and that also makes it have a very reasonable baseline.
2.5 This is a nice way to trigger heroic since it replaces itself, and that also makes it have a very reasonable baseline.
Artful Maneuver
1.5 This is pretty expensive for the buff, and while Rebound does mean you get it twice -- the second time your opponent knows it's coming.
1.5 This is pretty expensive for the buff, and while Rebound does mean you get it twice -- the second time your opponent knows it's coming.
Mizzium Skin
2.5 This is a nice cheap way to blank removal, and sometimes it can even win combat.
2.5 This is a nice cheap way to blank removal, and sometimes it can even win combat.
Commune with the Gods
1.5 This can load your graveyard while giving you some card selection, but you need to be a graveyard deck and/or enchantment deck for this to get there, and that's not going to happen often enough. Most of the time it's better to play a two mana 2/2.
1.5 This can load your graveyard while giving you some card selection, but you need to be a graveyard deck and/or enchantment deck for this to get there, and that's not going to happen often enough. Most of the time it's better to play a two mana 2/2.
Gurmag Angler
1 // 3.0 If you are good at loading your graveyard, the Angler is a pretty nice payoff. It's just a big vanilla creature, but playing one of those for 1-3 mana is pretty nice.
1 // 3.0 If you are good at loading your graveyard, the Angler is a pretty nice payoff. It's just a big vanilla creature, but playing one of those for 1-3 mana is pretty nice.
Makindi Sliderunner
2 A two mana 2/1 trample is bad -- and a two mana 3/2 trample isn't insane either. This makes you jump through hoops to get there.
2 A two mana 2/1 trample is bad -- and a two mana 3/2 trample isn't insane either. This makes you jump through hoops to get there.
Stampeding Elk Herd
2.5 This brings 5 power to the baord on it's own, so getting Formidable is certainly doable.
2.5 This brings 5 power to the baord on it's own, so getting Formidable is certainly doable.
Pack 3 Pick 7: Ghirapur Gearcrafter
Catacomb Sifter
4 This gives you so much value for three mana. Just getting a 2/3 and a 1/1 for that cost is a slam dunk, and this 1/1 can produce mana and you get some Scry triggers, too.
4 This gives you so much value for three mana. Just getting a 2/3 and a 1/1 for that cost is a slam dunk, and this 1/1 can produce mana and you get some Scry triggers, too.
Baleful Eidolon
2 This doesn't feel great either way you cast it, but the flexibility keeps it from being too bad.
2 This doesn't feel great either way you cast it, but the flexibility keeps it from being too bad.
Keening Apparition
2 This has okay stats, and the format has enough Enchantments for this ability to be relevant sometimes.
2 This has okay stats, and the format has enough Enchantments for this ability to be relevant sometimes.
Ghirapur Gearcrafter
3.5 This was Red's best Common last time we saw it, and it'll be in the conversation here too. Three mana for a 2/1 and a 1/1 flyer is excellent.
3.5 This was Red's best Common last time we saw it, and it'll be in the conversation here too. Three mana for a 2/1 and a 1/1 flyer is excellent.
Zendikar Incarnate
2 This is just a big vanilla creature. It'll never feel bad, but it'll never feel great either.
2 This is just a big vanilla creature. It'll never feel bad, but it'll never feel great either.
Gust of Wind
2.5 Paying two for this feels pretty incredible, as it replaces itself and gives you some nice tempo. Paying 4 makes it a little harder to feel good about the tempo, but that's a passable card too.
2.5 Paying two for this feels pretty incredible, as it replaces itself and gives you some nice tempo. Paying 4 makes it a little harder to feel good about the tempo, but that's a passable card too.
Dragon Mantle
2.5 This is a nice way to trigger heroic since it replaces itself, and that also makes it have a very reasonable baseline.
2.5 This is a nice way to trigger heroic since it replaces itself, and that also makes it have a very reasonable baseline.
Courier's Briefcase
2 This fixes your mana pretty effectively while also adding a body to the board. I wouldn't count on cashing it in for 3 cards, though.
2 This fixes your mana pretty effectively while also adding a body to the board. I wouldn't count on cashing it in for 3 cards, though.
Retraction Helix
2 This doesn't have the silly combo potential it has in 60-card formats, but it is a roundabout way to bounce something for one mana. Granted, having an untapped creature is a requirement, and that holds it back -- but it's a playable card.
2 This doesn't have the silly combo potential it has in 60-card formats, but it is a roundabout way to bounce something for one mana. Granted, having an untapped creature is a requirement, and that holds it back -- but it's a playable card.
Pack 3 Pick 8: Kiora's Follower
Kiora's Follower
3 This is good at ramping your mana, and it can also give creatures pseudo-vigilance or help you reuse activated abilities.
3 This is good at ramping your mana, and it can also give creatures pseudo-vigilance or help you reuse activated abilities.
Tormented Hero
2 This is a fine one drop for Black aggro decks.
2 This is a fine one drop for Black aggro decks.
Lotus-Eye Mystics
2 The stat-line is bad, and even in a format with a decent number of Enchantments, you frequently don't have one to get back.
2 The stat-line is bad, and even in a format with a decent number of Enchantments, you frequently don't have one to get back.
Makindi Sliderunner
2 A two mana 2/1 trample is bad -- and a two mana 3/2 trample isn't insane either. This makes you jump through hoops to get there.
2 A two mana 2/1 trample is bad -- and a two mana 3/2 trample isn't insane either. This makes you jump through hoops to get there.
Consider
2.5 This is always a nice card selection spell, and in a format with plenty of Prowess and similar effects, it'll be solid.
2.5 This is always a nice card selection spell, and in a format with plenty of Prowess and similar effects, it'll be solid.
Darksteel Ingot
1.5 3-mana mana rocks are rarely good in Limited, but if you really need fixing or ramp, you'll use this.
1.5 3-mana mana rocks are rarely good in Limited, but if you really need fixing or ramp, you'll use this.
Gladecover Scout
1 // 3.5 This is a great creature to augment thanks to hexproof, but it's very bad if you can't do that.
1 // 3.5 This is a great creature to augment thanks to hexproof, but it's very bad if you can't do that.
Clutch of Currents
3 This is solid when you only spend one mana on it, and great when you can also get a 3/3 out of the deal.
3 This is solid when you only spend one mana on it, and great when you can also get a 3/3 out of the deal.
Pack 3 Pick 9: Opal Lake Gatekeepers
Tomebound Lich
3.5 This will always improve your hand while giving you a body that gains you life and can trade with anything -- that's all stuff Blue/Black decks are happy to do.
3.5 This will always improve your hand while giving you a body that gains you life and can trade with anything -- that's all stuff Blue/Black decks are happy to do.
Opal Lake Gatekeepers
0 // 2.5 This is a solid build around for gates decks, where it's virtually always a 2-for-1.
0 // 2.5 This is a solid build around for gates decks, where it's virtually always a 2-for-1.
Rimrock Knight
3.5 This was surprisignly great last time we saw it. The buff doesn't always let your creature survive combat, but even just chipping in for extra damage and then adding a 3/1 to the board is a pretty good deal.
3.5 This was surprisignly great last time we saw it. The buff doesn't always let your creature survive combat, but even just chipping in for extra damage and then adding a 3/1 to the board is a pretty good deal.
Supernatural Stamina
2.5 This is a very nice trick because it's so cheap, and great in combat or against removal.
2.5 This is a very nice trick because it's so cheap, and great in combat or against removal.
Darksteel Ingot
1.5 3-mana mana rocks are rarely good in Limited, but if you really need fixing or ramp, you'll use this.
1.5 3-mana mana rocks are rarely good in Limited, but if you really need fixing or ramp, you'll use this.
Nemesis of Mortals
1 // 3 This is pretty bad in most decks, but if you're good at loading the graveyard it's a pretty slid threat.
1 // 3 This is pretty bad in most decks, but if you're good at loading the graveyard it's a pretty slid threat.
Goblin Heelcutter
3.5 This was an excellent Common last time we saw it. Turning off blockers is an aggro deck's dream, and the Heelcutter can Dash in and do it every turn. Your opponent also has to account for it every single turn, or risk dying.
3.5 This was an excellent Common last time we saw it. Turning off blockers is an aggro deck's dream, and the Heelcutter can Dash in and do it every turn. Your opponent also has to account for it every single turn, or risk dying.
Pack 3 Pick 10: Undead Butler
Lyev Skyknight
3.5 This removes a creature from the equation for a whole turn, while adding a pretty solid body to the board. That's some seroius tempo.
3.5 This removes a creature from the equation for a whole turn, while adding a pretty solid body to the board. That's some seroius tempo.
Undead Butler
2.5 This sets up the graveyard nicely, and even has a decent effect to take advantage of that fact.
2.5 This sets up the graveyard nicely, and even has a decent effect to take advantage of that fact.
Boundary Lands Ranger
3 This has a solid baseline and can really let you dig deeper into your deck by the mid-game.
3 This has a solid baseline and can really let you dig deeper into your deck by the mid-game.
Syndicate Messenger
2.5 4 mana for a 3/4 worth of flying stats is an okay deal.
2.5 4 mana for a 3/4 worth of flying stats is an okay deal.
Windrider Patrol
2 This is a bit overcosted, but the combat damage trigger is nice.
2 This is a bit overcosted, but the combat damage trigger is nice.
Oath of Liliana
2.5 A three-mana edict isn't great, but this has useful typing, and her planeswalker payoff effect is great, since it gives you a free way to protect your planeswalkers.
2.5 A three-mana edict isn't great, but this has useful typing, and her planeswalker payoff effect is great, since it gives you a free way to protect your planeswalkers.
Pack 3 Pick 11: Mizzium Skin
Rogue's Passage
1.5 This is a decent late-game mana sink, but it hurts your mana base in the mean time.
1.5 This is a decent late-game mana sink, but it hurts your mana base in the mean time.
Sanitarium Skeleton
0 // 2.5 If you've got a sacrifice deck, this is a decent build around since it can constantly give you fodder, albeit inefficiently.
0 // 2.5 If you've got a sacrifice deck, this is a decent build around since it can constantly give you fodder, albeit inefficiently.
Mizzium Skin
2.5 This is a nice cheap way to blank removal, and sometimes it can even win combat.
2.5 This is a nice cheap way to blank removal, and sometimes it can even win combat.
Scion of Ugin
1 A 6-mana 4/4 flyer doesn't real move the needle in Limited these days.
1 A 6-mana 4/4 flyer doesn't real move the needle in Limited these days.
Oath of Gideon
2 This has a kind of passable baseline, and while the Planeswalker bonus sheet is active, you might actually be able to get some additional value out of it.
2 This has a kind of passable baseline, and while the Planeswalker bonus sheet is active, you might actually be able to get some additional value out of it.
Pack 3 Pick 12: Sungrace Pegasus
Rapid Hybridization
0 This is terrible in Limited. If you use it on your opponent's creature, you effectively 2-for-1 yourself, and using it on your own is only moderately better.
0 This is terrible in Limited. If you use it on your opponent's creature, you effectively 2-for-1 yourself, and using it on your own is only moderately better.
Sanitarium Skeleton
0 // 2.5 If you've got a sacrifice deck, this is a decent build around since it can constantly give you fodder, albeit inefficiently.
0 // 2.5 If you've got a sacrifice deck, this is a decent build around since it can constantly give you fodder, albeit inefficiently.
Windrider Patrol
2 This is a bit overcosted, but the combat damage trigger is nice.
2 This is a bit overcosted, but the combat damage trigger is nice.
Sungrace Pegasus
2 This is a nice place to put counters or Auras, but is fairly underwhelming otherwise.
2 This is a nice place to put counters or Auras, but is fairly underwhelming otherwise.
Pack 3 Pick 13: Supernatural Stamina
Scion of Ugin
1 A 6-mana 4/4 flyer doesn't real move the needle in Limited these days.
1 A 6-mana 4/4 flyer doesn't real move the needle in Limited these days.
Supernatural Stamina
2.5 This is a very nice trick because it's so cheap, and great in combat or against removal.
2.5 This is a very nice trick because it's so cheap, and great in combat or against removal.
Cavern Lampad
2 As with many Bestow cards, both modes are kind of underwhelming, but the modality keeps it from being terrible.
2 As with many Bestow cards, both modes are kind of underwhelming, but the modality keeps it from being terrible.
Pack 3 Pick 14: Mizzium Skin
Mizzium Skin
2.5 This is a nice cheap way to blank removal, and sometimes it can even win combat.
2.5 This is a nice cheap way to blank removal, and sometimes it can even win combat.
Commune with the Gods
1.5 This can load your graveyard while giving you some card selection, but you need to be a graveyard deck and/or enchantment deck for this to get there, and that's not going to happen often enough. Most of the time it's better to play a two mana 2/2.
1.5 This can load your graveyard while giving you some card selection, but you need to be a graveyard deck and/or enchantment deck for this to get there, and that's not going to happen often enough. Most of the time it's better to play a two mana 2/2.
Pack 3 Pick 15: Zendikar Incarnate
Zendikar Incarnate
2 This is just a big vanilla creature. It'll never feel bad, but it'll never feel great either.
2 This is just a big vanilla creature. It'll never feel bad, but it'll never feel great either.
Draft Pick Overview
- Pack 1 Pick 1: Chromanticore
- Pack 1 Pick 2: Compulsory Rest
- Pack 1 Pick 3: Fallaji Archaeologist
- Pack 1 Pick 4: Opal Lake Gatekeepers
- Pack 1 Pick 5: Azorius Guildgate
- Pack 1 Pick 6: Gateway Plaza
- Pack 1 Pick 7: Cloudfin Raptor
- Pack 1 Pick 8: Gruul Guildgate
- Pack 1 Pick 9: Azorius Guildgate
- Pack 1 Pick 10: Izzet Guildgate
- Pack 1 Pick 11: Mizzium Skin
- Pack 1 Pick 12: Cavern Lampad
- Pack 1 Pick 13: Possessed Skaab
- Pack 1 Pick 14: Baleful Eidolon
- Pack 1 Pick 15: Undead Butler
- Pack 2 Pick 1: Courier's Briefcase
- Pack 2 Pick 2: Fall of the Hammer
- Pack 2 Pick 3: Ashen Rider
- Pack 2 Pick 4: Rakdos Guildgate
- Pack 2 Pick 5: Brood Monitor
- Pack 2 Pick 6: Ovalchase Daredevil
- Pack 2 Pick 7: Imperious Oligarch
- Pack 2 Pick 8: Darksteel Ingot
- Pack 2 Pick 9: Evolving Wilds
- Pack 2 Pick 10: Izzet Guildgate
- Pack 2 Pick 11: Cloudfin Raptor
- Pack 2 Pick 12: Hushwing Gryff
- Pack 2 Pick 13: Gladecover Scout
- Pack 2 Pick 14: Unravel the Aether
- Pack 2 Pick 15: Ghostblade Eidolon
- Pack 3 Pick 1: Woodland Wanderer
- Pack 3 Pick 2: Imperious Oligarch
- Pack 3 Pick 3: Skyrider Elf
- Pack 3 Pick 4: Simic Guildgate
- Pack 3 Pick 5: Ubul Sar Gatekeepers
- Pack 3 Pick 6: Stampeding Elk Herd
- Pack 3 Pick 7: Ghirapur Gearcrafter
- Pack 3 Pick 8: Kiora's Follower
- Pack 3 Pick 9: Opal Lake Gatekeepers
- Pack 3 Pick 10: Undead Butler
- Pack 3 Pick 11: Mizzium Skin
- Pack 3 Pick 12: Sungrace Pegasus
- Pack 3 Pick 13: Supernatural Stamina
- Pack 3 Pick 14: Mizzium Skin
- Pack 3 Pick 15: Zendikar Incarnate
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