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Duskmourn cEDH Set Review 2024

Posted on September 25, 2024 by John Saran

Greetings, creatures of the night! Ready to dig into the latest and creepiest cEDH gems from Magic: The Gathering’s newest set—Duskmourn: House of Horror. We’ve just left the adorable critters of Bloomburrow behind, and now we’re stepping into what might be the eeriest set ever (sorry, Innistrad, you had a good run). From the nastiest demonic tutor yet, to a slick alternative to Abrade, a massive Boros balloon that’s sure to make waves, a juicy new combo piece for Stella Lee, and a battlefield-wrecking Necrotic Ooze, this set is packed. Oh, and for all my Yuriko fans out there, get ready—Wizards just dropped a shiny new staple. So, grab your lanterns and let’s hunt down some game-changing cEDH cards!

UNWANTED REMAKE

Unwanted Remake might just be the third-best white removal spell behind the classics Swords to Plowshares and Path to Exile. It’s cheap, instant-speed, and the drawback of giving your opponent a free creature is fairly minor, with the occasional bonus of messing up an opponent’s topdeck tutor.

It’s straightforward—good, old-fashioned manifesting, much like Reality Shift, a card that Unwanted Remake closely resembles.

That said, I predict Unwanted Remake will only see play in decks desperate for more removal after they’ve exhausted the usual go-tos. Unless, of course, a deck emerges that can abuse it in the same way Reality Shift used to be exploited: by looping it infinitely to mill out opponents, manifesting every card in their library.

COME BACK WRONG

Come Back Wrong is a straightforward, versatile card—a mix of removal and clone. If you’re looking to take out a creature and get a shot at using its abilities, this might be worth considering. While you don’t keep the creature permanently, it’s great for stealing something like a Dockside Extortionist trigger, stopping your opponent from going infinite with bounce combos.

That being said, it’s a bit pricey at three mana and being limited to sorcery speed makes it feel clunky, so I doubt it’ll see much play in the mainstream cEDH scene.

BLUE

It’s a rare occasion to see a new set without any fresh cEDH tools for blue, usually the most stacked color. Yet, Duskmourn: House of Horrors has pulled it off. If I’ve missed something powerful in blue, I’d love to hear about it!

DEMONIC COUNSEL

This is the ultimate Demonic Tutor—well, not because it’s strictly better, but because when it doesn’t function like Demonic Tutor, it still tutors for Demons. You ever say a word so many times it stops sounding real? That’s where I’m at with Demonic Counsel.

Now, in terms of Demons worth tutoring, there are really only two that stand out: Vilis, Broker of Blood and Razaketh, the Foulblooded. Unfortunately, neither sees as much play these days, but if you’re really in need of them on demand, Demonic Counsel isn’t a bad option.

For decks without Demons, though, you’re going to need a reliable way to trigger Delirium. Fetchlands help, as do self-mill and wheel effects, but don’t expect Demonic Counsel to be online early in the game—the turns that matter most in cEDH. Sure, other Delirium cards do see play, but look at Shifting Woodland—it’s still just a land without Delirium. And even Dragon’s Rage Channeler barely relies on its Delirium text. Because of this, I don’t see Demonic Counsel getting much play outside of specific niche builds, like Kaalia of the Vast. It could also find a place in Dargo, the Shipwrecker decks that want to tutor up Rakdos, the Muscle. But in most cases? It’ll likely stay on the sidelines.

DOOMSDAY EXCUCIATOR

Six black pips on a single card? Perfectly fitting for a horror-themed set, and Doomsday Excruciator delivers with a unique, over-the-top effect and stunning artwork. Exiling all but the bottom six cards of all players’ libraries is a flashy and unprecedented move—but is it useful in cEDH? I’m not convinced.

If you’ve already got your win lined up and your opponents don’t, fantastic—you’ve effectively locked them out of the game, and you’re ready to take over. But here’s the thing: if you’re already in a position to win, wouldn’t you rather have something like Defense Grid, a counterspell, or any other form of protection instead? Your opponents may not be able to draw into their win conditions, but they can still interact with yours. Plus, Doomsday Excruciator leaves you with a ticking clock—you’ve got three turns before you deck yourself, thanks to the exile effect each turn.

All of this makes Doomsday Excruciator feel like a win-more card—something flashy but not impactful unless you’re already in a dominant position. While undeniably fun, it’s unlikely to find a home in most cEDH decks.

RAZORKIN NEEDLEHEAD

Razorkin Needlehead feels like what Orcish Bowmasters should’ve been—a strong deterrent to mass card draw that isn’t utterly busted or an auto-include in every deck. The problem? It’s so much weaker that I wish it had a bit more punch. It doesn’t need flash or an enter-the-battlefield trigger, but the ability to target creatures would’ve been a nice touch, especially for red decks that can handle two red pips.

As it is, Razorkin Needlehead probably won’t make the cut just to annoy the Rhystic Study player. It’s a bit too clunky for that. However, it does have a clear role in cEDH, particularly in Ob Nixilis, Captive Kingpin decks, where its synergy is more apparent. Otherwise, its lack of versatility will likely keep it on the sidelines.

UNTIMELY MALFUNCTION

Untimely Malfunction serves as a sidegrade to the cEDH staple Abrade. If you’ve ever played a low-color red deck, you’re probably very familiar with Abrade—its flexibility to either remove a creature or destroy an artifact is always relevant. Most cEDH creatures have three toughness or less, and artifacts are abundant, so Abrade rarely misses. Untimely Malfunction, however, swaps out the artifact removal for the ability to either redirect a spell (in a Deflecting Swat style) or make two creatures unable to block.

While stopping blockers is situational—mainly useful for damage triggers or going for a lethal swing against a low-health player—the real value comes from its ability to redirect a spell. You can throw a Path to Exile or Swords to Plowshares back at its caster, protect a noncreature permanent from removal, or, perhaps most importantly, counter a counterspell by redirecting it to itself. This effect is already available in Deflecting Swat, which is free and therefore strictly better, but Untimely Malfunction is unique in offering this utility alongside creature removal.

Overall, I’d say Untimely Malfunction is slightly weaker than Abrade due to the loss of artifact removal, but if you’re in a low-color deck and need more flexible interaction that can remove a creature or protect one of your own, Untimely Malfunction could be a solid alternative.

VENGEFUL POSSESSION

Threaten effects rarely make an impact in cEDH, usually reserved for draft decks—except for one key case: Stella Lee, Wild Card. For Stella, the value in taking control of a creature isn’t the point—you’re always targeting Stella herself. The real appeal of Vengeful Possession lies in the fact that it untaps the creature, enabling Stella’s primary combo of copying herself and untapping in an infinite loop. (For more on this combo, check out the link from our friends at Commander Spellbook.)

What makes Vengeful Possession particularly interesting is that it allows you to draw and discard with each iteration. While this is weaker than similar effects like Crimson Wisps or Cerulean Wisps—since it’s card-neutral rather than card-positive—it still enables you to dig through your deck, helping you find Twisted Fealty, which is the actual win condition. The discard also feeds into Underworld Breach lines, adding an extra layer of synergy.

If you’re curious about playing Stella Lee, Wild Card in cEDH, Josh LeBlanc from ElderDrunkenHighlander has put together a comprehensive writeup on the deck, which is worth checking out for deeper insights.

CONCLUSION

Duskmourn: House of Horrors ranks among the weaker sets I’ve reviewed for cEDH. While I’m excited about Kaito, Bane of Nightmares and expect The Master of Keys to be a hit with reanimation enthusiasts, and Marvin, Murderous Mimic certainly has endless combo potential, there’s just not a lot to sink your teeth into. From a cEDH standpoint, this set feels less like The Exorcist or The Thing and more like Winnie-the-Pooh: Blood and Honey—not great.

But as I always emphasize, that’s perfectly okay! Magic sets aren’t crafted specifically with cEDH in mind, and despite the growing popularity of our quirky little subformat, I believe they shouldn’t have to cater to it. Until next time…

Mastering the Art of EDH Deck Optimization

Posted on August 10, 2023August 10, 2023 by John Saran

Ahoy, fellow Planeswalkers and deck enthusiasts! Welcome to the mystical realm of EDH, where legendary creatures, mind-bending spells, and epic sagas collide in a whirlwind of magic and strategy. Whether you’re a seasoned commander or a fresh-faced recruit, one thing’s for sure: there’s an enchanting journey ahead as we dive into the art of EDH deck optimization.

So, buckle up, ’cause we’re about to embark on a quest to mold your deck into a force to be reckoned with!

Deck Design Dance: The Opening Move

Picture this: you’re standing at the edge of the multiverse, a blank canvas before you, ready to paint your masterpiece. But instead of brushes, you’ve got your trusty collection of cards. The key to optimization begins with a solid deck design. What’s your theme? Your commander’s battle cry? Maybe you’re all about dragons, faeries, or an army of squirrels ready to take the world by storm. Whatever floats your flying, trampling, or hexproof boat, make sure your deck’s heart beats in rhythm with your strategy.

In the wondrous world of EDH, every deck is as unique as the Planeswalker wielding it. Your deck is a reflection of your essence, your playstyle, and your imagination. It’s not just about throwing in the coolest and rarest cards you own – it’s about telling a story. Are you a cunning rogue who thrives on deception, an arcane spellcaster with a flair for the dramatic, or a noble warrior who leads an unstoppable force? Your deck’s identity sets the stage for the adventure to come.

When selecting your commander, it’s not just about their raw power, but also about their ability to orchestrate your chosen symphony of cards. If your commander is a spell-slinging wizard, consider complementing them with spells that synergize with their expertise. If you’ve chosen a fearsome dragon as your commander, pack your deck with fiery spells and draconic allies. Your commander is the guiding star of your deck – the North Star that keeps your strategy on course.

Recommended: How To Maximize Your EDH Deck Strength

Card Carousel: The Power of Synergy

Deck building is like a puzzle, and every card is a unique piece that needs to fit just right. Seek out cards that dance in harmony, sharing abilities like a secret pact between wizards. It’s not just about putting your commander in the spotlight; it’s about the supporting cast that elevates them to legendary status. For instance, if your commander loves feasting on sacrifice, toss in some delectable creatures that beg to be devoured – talk about a match made in the Blind Eternities!

Ah, the sweet melody of synergy! Imagine your cards as instruments in an orchestra, each playing their part to create a magnificent composition. Combos are the heartbeats of synergy, where one card’s ability harmonizes perfectly with another’s. Maybe it’s a spell that triggers your commander’s devastating attack, or a pair of creatures whose abilities create an unbreakable defense. As you add cards to your deck, listen for the whispers of synergy, the subtle cues that tell you when two cards are destined to work together.

But beware the siren’s call of overloading your deck with too many themes or mechanics. Just as an orchestra can be overwhelmed by too many instruments, a deck can lose its focus when stretched thin. Choose your synergies wisely, and let them shine like stars in the night sky.

Mana Mastery: The Spellbinding Symmetry

Mana is the heart and soul of any deck. Just like in life, balance is key. It’s like orchestrating a symphony of land drops and mana rocks, where every instrument contributes to the grand performance. Sure, a flashy spell might make the crowd go wild, but without the right mana, you’re just a one-hit wonder. So, throw in a dash of lands, sprinkle some ramp, and spice it up with a sprinkle of color-fixing. Your deck will thank you with flashy fireworks of victory.

Mana is the magical energy that courses through your deck, powering your spells and abilities. Just as a wizard must tap into the ley lines to cast their most powerful spells, you must tap into the flow of mana to unleash your deck’s potential. Lands are the foundation of your mana base – choose them wisely to ensure a steady supply of mana. But don’t stop there; mana rocks, dorks, and rituals can supercharge your mana production, letting you cast your spells with flair and finesse.

Remember, a balanced mana base isn’t just about the quantity of mana sources, but also about their distribution. A deck skewed towards a single color might find itself struggling to cast spells with multiple color requirements.

Interaction Elixir: Stirring the Cauldron

Nobody likes a lopsided game of Magic. That’s where interaction comes in, like a magical elixir to keep things spicy. From countering spells to exiling problematic permanents, a dash of control, a pinch of removal, and a hint of disruption can transform your deck from a spectator into a star player. Remember, it’s not just about protecting your own interests; it’s about shaking up your opponents’ plans like a potion bubbling over with surprises.

Interaction is the secret ingredient that adds depth and excitement to the game. It’s the enchantment that keeps your opponents guessing, the instant that saves you from defeat, and the creature that turns the tide in your favor. A well-timed counter spell can halt a devastating combo in its tracks, while a removal spell can exile a threat before it becomes unstoppable.

But don’t go overboard with interaction, or you might find yourself drowning in responses while your own game plan falters. Strike a balance between proactive and reactive cards, and remember that a touch of disruption can disrupt even the most carefully-laid plans.

Trial and Triumph: The Joy of Playtesting

Now that you’ve whipped up your spellbinding concoction, it’s time for the grand tasting! Playtesting is like savoring a feast of spells – the more you indulge, the better you understand your deck’s flavor. Test it against different opponents, in diverse settings, and watch as it evolves into a finely-tuned machine. Did that new instant turn the tides? Did your commander’s ability leave foes trembling? Embrace the journey of refinement, and soon you’ll be known as the deck whisperer.

Playtesting is the culmination of your deck-building journey, where theory meets reality on the battlefield. It’s where you discover if your deck can withstand the heat of competition or crumble under pressure. Each playtest is a chance to uncover hidden synergies, refine your mana base, and fine-tune your interaction suite.

As you play, pay attention to how your deck performs. Are you consistently drawing the right cards at the right time? Are you able to execute your game plan, or do you find yourself struggling to keep up? Be open to making changes based on your playtesting experiences, whether it’s swapping out a lackluster card or adding a new combo piece that you discovered in the heat of battle.

See Also: Top 5 Best Cards in Commander

Conclusion

Congratulations, dear adventurer! You’ve completed your crash course in EDH deck optimization. From the first shuffle to the final victory, you’ve learned that building a deck isn’t just a matter of assembling cards – it’s an art form, a symphony, a dance between strategy and creativity.

So, go forth, dear Planeswalker, and unleash your deck’s true potential upon the multiverse. May your draws be ever in your favor, and your opponents’ life totals plummet like a meteor shower of victory. Until next time, may your mana always be plentiful and your combos always devastating!

How To Maximize Your EDH Deck Strength

Posted on August 10, 2023 by John Saran

Ah, the exhilarating world of EDH, where decks are as diverse as the planeswalkers who wield them. Welcome, fellow spell-slinger, to a realm where legendary creatures rule, and the power of your deck is limited only by your imagination. So grab your deck box, shuffle those cards, and prepare to embark on a journey to maximize the strength of your EDH deck like never before!

The Art of Commanders

Picture this: You’re the commander of a vast army, a leader who can reshape the battlefield with a single command. Your choice of commander sets the stage for your entire EDH deck. Think of it as casting the lead actor in your deck’s epic saga.

Choose a commander that resonates with you on a personal level. Are you drawn to the cunning strategies of a mastermind like [[Nekusar, the Mindrazer]], or do you find yourself enchanted by the mystical allure of an enchantress like [[Estrid, the Masked]]? Your commander’s abilities are the heartbeat of your deck, so embrace the synergy they offer and build your strategy around them.

The Dance of Mana

Ah, mana – the lifeblood of any magic wielder. Just as a chef needs quality ingredients, you need a robust mana base to cook up your magical concoctions. To maximize your deck’s strength, ensure a harmonious balance of mana sources that match your commander’s color identity. Dual lands, fetch lands, and utility lands are your secret ingredients.

Think of your mana base as a symphony orchestra. Each land is a musician, contributing its unique melody to the overall harmony. The more in-tune your mana base, the smoother your deck will operate. Remember, consistency is key!

Spellslinging Arsenal

With your commander leading the charge and mana flowing freely, it’s time to arm yourself with an arsenal of spells that could make a dragon cower. Instants, sorceries, and enchantments are your weapons of choice, and each card you include should serve a specific purpose.

Mix and match card types to create dynamic interactions. Craft spells that bolster your strategy, disrupt your opponents, and provide answers to unexpected threats. The beauty of EDH lies in its unpredictability, so equip yourself with versatile tools that can handle any situation.

Allies and Allegiances

No mage is an island, and in the world of EDH, forming alliances can tip the scales in your favor. Seek out cards that encourage camaraderie among your creatures, bolstering their strengths and shielding their weaknesses. Tribal synergies, anthem effects, and buffs that grant hexproof or indestructible can turn a humble creature into a formidable force.

Remember, even the most powerful sorcerer can be humbled by a well-timed counterspell or removal. Forge alliances, protect your assets, and watch as your deck’s strength multiplies.

The Art of Politics

EDH isn’t just about casting spells and attacking opponents; it’s a realm where diplomacy can be as potent as a fireball. Cultivate your political prowess by forging alliances, negotiating temporary truces, and leveraging your deck’s unique strengths to influence the game’s outcome.

Trade favors, make promises, and wield your silver tongue like a blade. By navigating the intricacies of EDH politics, you can steer the game in your favor without even casting a single spell. Remember, in the world of magic, the pen can be mightier than the sword.

Conclusion

Congratulations, Planeswalker! You’ve journeyed through the enchanting landscapes of EDH, honed your deck’s strengths, and embraced the art of strategy and camaraderie. With your commander at the helm, a harmonious mana base, a diverse array of spells, and a knack for politics, you’re prepared to unleash the full potential of your EDH deck upon any tabletop battlefield.

So go forth, fellow mage, and let your deck’s strength shine like a supernova. May your draws be ever in your favor, your spells true, and your alliances unbreakable. The multiverse awaits, and you’re ready to leave your mark as a true EDH champion!