This gives us a high enough density not only in number, but in our curve as well. There are actually a surprising number of them that are relevant to Elenda, as well as a spread over different card types. So why anthem tribal? Well, a few reasons. So the general thought would be, if you were to make a tribal deck, that Elenda would lead either a vampire deck or a knight deck ( Haakon, Stromgald Scourge has a home!) While both of these are valid, in my opinion, this isn't the direction I want to explore Elenda. Ixalan block was focused on tribal themes. Returning Elenda to the battlefield over and over again is going to be an important theme for the deck. Individually, they both pull their weight as well. Infinite scry 1 with Viscera Seer, infinitely sized Carrion Feeder, and much more. Depending on what sacrifice outlet we use, we also generate infinite value from whatever we may be using. Combined with a sacrifice outlet, this does very much the same thing as our first combo: generate infinite vampire tokens. Of all combos in EDH, this one feels like one of the most iconic in the format. This allows us to generate infinite vampire tokens as well as infinite mana. I often forget that Nim Deathmantle actually does more than resurrect dead creatures, and that it's first half gives a +2/+2 buff. When I first ran through this combo mentally, I was in a bit of despair that I might need a fourth piece. Sacrifice the one vampire for two colorless, and return Elenda to the battlefield equipped to Nim Deathmantle.Order your two triggered abilities so that Elenda's "dies" trigger resolves first.Sacrifice Elenda to Ashnod's Altar to generate two colorless mana.The best thing about this combo is that is doesn't need any mana to kick off. Combined, they usually create an infinite loop to close out the game, especially if a commander can somehow generate tokens. #1 - Ashnod's Altar and Nim DeathmantleĪshnod's Altar is a crucial piece of any deck that is willing to sacrifice creatures as fodder, and Nim Deathmantle gives a repeatable way to return a creature to the battlefield. However, the individual pieces are never dead draws on their own which makes their inclusion more justifiable if you are personally adverse to combo win-conditions. These combos are tried-and-true to the format, and they may seem a bit boring. The Ancient Waysīefore we wade into Elenda's more unique roads to victory, I do feel inclined to mention the usual suspects that fit into her deck. If we gear our deck with the thought to maximize this "downside", we can equally create a greater synergy in the total deck when she's sleeping in her tomb. Usually Commanders with quirks form the most unique strategies, and this isn't any less true for Elenda. Fear not though, as I think this is a blessing in disguise for her. If you are not already aware, "dies" in Magic means "moved from the battlefield to the graveyard." This means that Elenda will not generate tokens if we use the Commander replacement effect to move her to the command zone. "Dies" makes such a difference for how Elenda plays. "When Elenda dies, create X 1/1 white Vampire creature tokens with lifelink, where X is Elenda's power." Her first ability helps with that as she can quickly grow. One of them is that a 1/1 for 4-mana really is not that exciting. Elenda instantly became one of the more polarizing commanders upon her release for several reasons. This is a good ability, and it helps to mitigate some concerns that many had with her. "Whenever another creature dies, put a +1/+1 counter on Elenda, the Dusk Rose."Īs those around her fall, she only becomes stronger in her pursuit. She took upon the curse of vampirism to protect Ixalan (the plane) from the abuse of the The Immortal Sun. If you don't follow the Magic storyline, Elenda is basically the ultimate martyr. Vona, Butcher of Magan and Mavren Fein, Dusk Apostle were two of the fewest played legends from Ixalan, but I think they're trajectory is on the up with this week's contender: Elenda, the Dusk Rose!. However, a few tribes are left to fend for themselves a little more, the legendary Vampires in particular. Elenda's Bloody Knuckles.Welcome back to another installment of the Underdog's Corner! Due to personal scheduling details, I have been away for what feels like far too long from writing, but I am excited to be back! What has happened in the world since? Well, Rivals of Ixalan was released, and the higher ups even let me write a Top Ten article about it! So how has the EDH world been shaken up by the newest release? Well, according to our data, Merfolk are currently leading the pack from Rivals with Kumena, Tyrant of Orazca, and Dinosaurs are still making a gigantic splash with Zacama, Primal Calamity and Etali, Primal Storm.
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