Losing a Commander game is a lot like history—those who don’t learn from it are doomed to repeat it. But what if real-world historical conflicts could help you avoid suffering more losses at game night? This episode, we’re taking a look back at The Great War, dissecting its complexities for lessons you can use on your own MTG Commander battlefields. 

--------

JOIN OUR PATREON:

Support the show and become a Patron! Be a part of our community, receive awesome rewards, and more! https://www.patreon.com/commandzone

--------

AG1:

Head to http://www.drinkAG1.com/command  you’ll get the welcome kit, a Morning Person hat, a bottle of Vitamin D3+K2, a AG1 Flavor Sampler and you’ll get to try their new sleep supplement AGZ for free.

SHOPIFY:

Power your business with Shopify. Start your one-dollar-per-month trial period today by going to: https://www.shopify.com/tcz

ZOCDOC:

Stop putting off those doctors appointments! Find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today by going to https://www.zocdoc.com/command #sponsored

--------

CARD KINGDOM:

The Command Zone is sponsored by Card Kingdom! If you want to receive your cards in one safe package and experience the best customer service, make sure to order your Magic cards, sealed product, accessories, and more at Card Kingdom: http://www.cardkingdom.com/command

ARCHIDEKT:

Discover, build, catalog, and playtest on Archidekt, the deck-building website that makes it easy to brew brand new lists or manage your old favorites. Go to http://www.archidekt.com/commandzone to get started today!

ULTRA PRO:

Huge thanks to Ultra PRO for sponsoring this episode! Be sure to check out their amazing APEX sleeves and super classy MANA 8 product line. If you want to keep your cards protected and support the show, visit: https://ultrapro.com/command

--------

Relevant Links:

Dan Carlin's Hardcore History:

https://www.youtube.com/user/dancarlinpodcaster/videos

The Best Cards of 2025 | The Command Zone 717:

https://youtu.be/QG5KDhlmFRI?si=F-nO-8H7wbYm8MYH

The Guns of August (by Barbara Tuckman):

https://www.amazon.com/Guns-August-Pulitzer-Prize-Winning-Outbreak/dp/0345476093

The Christmas Truce:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christmas_truce

--------

Follow us on TikTok:

@thecommandzone

Follow us on Instagram:

@CommandCast

Follow us on Bluesky:

@commandcast.bsky.social

Follow us on Twitter:

@CommandCast

@JoshLeeKwai

@jfwong

@wachelreeks

Follow us on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/commandcast/

Email us:

[email protected]

--------

Commander Rules and Ban List:

https://magic.wizards.com/en/banned-restricted-list

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s Commander’s biggest night of the year: The Zoney Awards! 

We’re rolling out the red carpet to crown the best cards from 2025, as voted by our esteemed Academy of Command Zone staff and patrons. Which legendary nominees will win a golden trophy, and who will bring home the title of Best Card of 2025? Grab your popcorn, because it’s time to find out!
--------

DUELING DRAGONS PLAYMAT (LESS THAN 2 DAYS LEFT!): We’ve got not one but TWO amazing new Game Knights playmats – get yours now before it’s too late! These epic dragon designs come together to form one stunning battlefield, especially in the PREMIUM spot foil version that’s unlike anything we’ve done before. Order yours today at: https://tinyurl.com/DuelingDragonsGK -------- SUPPORT OUR CONTENT: Support the show and become a Patron! Be a part of our community, receive awesome rewards, and more! https://www.patreon.com/commandzone

--------

RIDGE:

Take advantage of Ridge’s Biggest Sale of the Year and GET UP TO 47% Off by going to https://www.Ridge.com/COMMAND #Ridgepod

AURA:

Get an exclusive $35 off your Carver Mat frame at: https://on.auraframes.com/COMMAND with promo code COMMAND.

FACTOR:

Eat smart with Factor. To get 50% off your first box plus free breakfast for one year, use code command50off at: https://www.factormeals.com/command50off

--------

CARD KINGDOM:

The Command Zone is sponsored by Card Kingdom! If you want to receive your cards in one safe package and experience the best customer service, make sure to order your Magic cards, sealed product, accessories, and more at Card Kingdom: http://www.cardkingdom.com/command

ARCHIDEKT:

Discover, build, catalog, and playtest on Archidekt, the deck-building website that makes it easy to brew brand new lists or manage your old favorites. Go to http://www.archidekt.com/commandzone to get started today!

ULTRA PRO:

Huge thanks to Ultra PRO for sponsoring this episode! Be sure to check out their amazing APEX sleeves and super classy MANA 8 product line. If you want to keep your cards protected and support the show, visit: https://ultrapro.com/command

--------

Jake Boss:

Twitter: @JakeBossMTG

Instagram: @jakebossmtg

Bluesky: @jakeboss.bsky.social

Jordan Pridgen:

Twitter: @jordanpigeon

Instagram: @jordanpridgen

Bluesky: @jordanpigeon.bsky.social

Beky Bell:

Twitter: @bekybear

Instagram: @bekybear

Gaurav Gulati:

Twitter: @DoubleGXG

Instagram: @DoubleGXG

Jamie Block:

Twitter: @Jamblock

Manson Leung:

Twitter: @MansonLeung_

Instagram: @the_manson

Karina Cruz:

Bluesky: @kcz24.bsky.social

Eric Lem:

Archidekt: https://archidekt.com/u/ItsBigGreen

Joshua Murphy:

Twitter: @alsonamedjosh

Bluesky: @alsonamedjosh.bsky.social

Edge of Eternities w/ Bosco & Irene The Alien | Game Knights #79:

https://youtu.be/269giWwNGN4?si=JYURk5MBA5Ul7g3a

Game Knights Spider-Man w/CovertGoBlue | #80:

https://youtu.be/d2r50q6Xa8w?si=dUtNHjOZtUiEfjIA

--------

THE END STEP:

Tales Unrolled:

Watch Jimmy and JLK play D&D: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0m27DrGOi8s

Better than Heroes: 

https://www.youtube.com/betterthanheroes

--------

Follow us on TikTok:

@thecommandzone

Follow us on Instagram:

@CommandCast

Follow us on Bluesky:

@commandcast.bsky.social

Follow us on Twitter:

@CommandCast

@JoshLeeKwai

@jfwong

@wachelreeks

Follow us on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/commandcast/

Email us:

[email protected]

--------

Commander Rules and Ban List:

https://magic.wizards.com/en/banned-restricted-list

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are your decks putting you to sleep? Tired of playing the same old lines over and over again? There’s GOT to be a better way! Today, we’re showing you how to take your decks and make them less boring. We’ll bring you deckbuilding tips that will breathe new life into your gameplay, with more diverse win conditions, more interesting decision points, and cards that won’t put you in the same position every single game. It’s time to dust off that old deck and make it new again!

--------

SUPPORT OUR PATREON:

Support the show and become a Patron! Be a part of our community, receive awesome rewards, and more! https://www.patreon.com/commandzone

--------

DUELING DRAGONS PLAYMAT KICKSTARTER:

We’ve got not one but TWO amazing new Game Knights playmats – get yours now before it’s too late! These epic dragon designs come together to form one stunning battlefield, especially in the PREMIUM spot foil version that’s unlike anything we’ve done before. Order yours today at: https://tinyurl.com/DuelingDragonsGK

--------

WHATNOT:

Join us live for games and free giveaways on December 18th @ 3pm Pacific! Plus, get a free $15 on us off your first purchase on Whatnot when you sign up at: https://whatnot.com/invite/command #whatnotpartner

FABLETICS:

Become a Fabletics VIP to get 80% off EVERYTHING plus monthly credits toward items, bundles, and outfits. Sign up at: http://www.fabletics.com/command

AURA:

Get an exclusive $35 off your Carver Mat frame at: https://on.auraframes.com/COMMAND with promo code COMMAND.

--------

CARD KINGDOM:

The Command Zone is sponsored by Card Kingdom! If you want to receive your cards in one safe package and experience the best customer service, make sure to order your Magic cards, sealed product, accessories, and more at Card Kingdom: http://www.cardkingdom.com/command

ARCHIDEKT:

Discover, build, catalog, and playtest on Archidekt, the deck-building website that makes it easy to brew brand new lists or manage your old favorites. Go to http://www.archidekt.com/commandzone to get started today!

ULTRA PRO:

Huge thanks to Ultra PRO for sponsoring this episode! Be sure to check out their amazing APEX sleeves and super classy MANA 8 product line. If you want to keep your cards protected and support the show, visit: https://ultrapro.com/command

--------

Relevant Links:

Salubrious Snail's "The Difficult Reality of the Tutor Question":

https://youtu.be/ccAea-2xqAU?si=c20KSd22P7NDnCcK

Commander Deckbuilding Template for the New Era | The Command Zone 658:

https://youtu.be/OSNV6224cHg?si=mTRG66mCqj46Vk2J

Alex Kessler:

Twitter: @Kesswylie

Instagram: @kesswylie

YouTube: @TheMMCast

Ben Bateman:

Twitter: @benbatemanmtg

Instagram: @benbatemanmtg 

YouTube: @BenBatemanMTG

About Singleton Format Highlander Gauntlet:

https://youtu.be/a6FC6-5g1qQ?si=I-fSxKqV4aGG-YUz

Master Deck Building w/ These Scryfall Hacks | The Command Zone 608:

https://youtu.be/NNv2uWeCS50?si=m0M7BUNS4FnO2qVv

--------

Follow us on TikTok:

@thecommandzone

Follow us on Instagram:

@CommandCast

Follow us on Bluesky:

@commandcast.bsky.social

Follow us on Twitter:

@CommandCast

@JoshLeeKwai

@jfwong

@wachelreeks

Follow us on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/commandcast/

Email us:

[email protected]

--------

Commander Rules and Ban List:

https://magic.wizards.com/en/banned-restricted-list

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Just because a card is popular doesn’t mean it’s good in every deck. With power creep becoming power leap, a lot of Commander staples have been outclassed. So don’t miss our list of well known cards you could probably cut. They may seem fine on their face, but we’ll break down why they’re overrated, and how you can do better.

--------

DUELING DRAGONS PLAYMAT KICKSTARTER:

We’ve got not one but TWO amazing new Game Knights playmats – get yours now before it’s too late! These epic dragon designs come together to form one stunning battlefield, especially in the PREMIUM spot foil version that’s unlike anything we’ve done before. Order yours today at: https://tinyurl.com/DuelingDragonsGK

--------

SUPPORT OUR CONTENT!

Support the show and become a Patron! Be a part of our community, receive awesome rewards, and more: https://www.patreon.com/commandzone

--------

AURA:

Get an exclusive $35 off your Carver Mat frame at: https://on.auraframes.com/COMMAND with promo code COMMAND.

FABLETICS:

Become a Fabletics VIP to get 80% off EVERYTHING plus monthly credits toward items, bundles, and outfits. Sign up at: http://www.fabletics.com/command

SHOPIFY:

Power your business with Shopify. Start your one-dollar-per-month trial period today by going to: https://www.shopify.com/tcz

WHATNOT:

Join us live for games and free giveaways on December 18th @ 3pm Pacific! Plus, get a free $15 on us off your first purchase on Whatnot when you sign up at: https://whatnot.com/invite/command #whatnotpartner

--------

CARD KINGDOM:

The Command Zone is sponsored by Card Kingdom! If you want to receive your cards in one safe package and experience the best customer service, make sure to order your Magic cards, sealed product, accessories, and more at Card Kingdom: http://www.cardkingdom.com/command

ARCHIDEKT:

Discover, build, catalog, and playtest on Archidekt, the deck-building website that makes it easy to brew brand new lists or manage your old favorites. Go to http://www.archidekt.com/commandzone to get started today!

ULTRA PRO:

Huge thanks to Ultra PRO for sponsoring this episode! Be sure to check out their amazing APEX sleeves and super classy MANA 8 product line. If you want to keep your cards protected and support the show, visit: https://ultrapro.com/command

--------

Relevant Links:

Lost Caverns of Ixalan w/ The Professor | Game Knights 66:

https://youtu.be/vA5qMDnyLc0?si=WZBgz5ETCBSWj53U

--------

Follow us on TikTok:

@thecommandzone

Follow us on Instagram:

@CommandCast

Follow us on Bluesky:

@commandcast.bsky.social

Follow us on Twitter:

@CommandCast

@JoshLeeKwai

@jfwong

@wachelreeks

Follow us on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/commandcast/

Email us:

[email protected]

--------

Commander Rules and Ban List:

https://magic.wizards.com/en/banned-restricted-list

--------

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sometimes a Commander comes along that looks like the coolest legend ever printed—until you actually try to build it. This episode, the Command Zone crew tells tales of brews that never quite came together. From clunky plans to unfun play patterns, come find out which cards were too tricky to crack even for us, and we’re professionals!

--------

DUELING DRAGONS PLAYMAT KICKSTARTER:

We’ve got not one but TWO amazing new Game Knights playmats – get yours now before it’s too late! These epic dragon designs come together to form one stunning battlefield, especially in the PREMIUM spot foil version that’s unlike anything we’ve done before. Order yours today at: https://tinyurl.com/DuelingDragonsGK

--------

JOIN OUR PATREON:

Support the show and become a Patron! Be a part of our community, receive awesome rewards, and more! https://www.patreon.com/commandzone

--------

RAYCON:

Thanks Raycon for sponsoring! This holiday season, get 20% off SITEWIDE on Raycon audio products like the new Essential Open Earbuds at: https://www.buyraycon.com/commandopen

AURA:

Get an exclusive $35 off your Carver Mat frame at: https://on.auraframes.com/COMMAND with promo code COMMAND

WHATNOT:

Join us live for games and free giveaways on December 18th @ 3pm Pacific! Plus, get a free $15 on us off your first purchase on Whatnot when you sign up at: https://whatnot.com/invite/command #whatnotpartner

--------

CARD KINGDOM:

The Command Zone is sponsored by Card Kingdom! If you want to receive your cards in one safe package and experience the best customer service, make sure to order your Magic cards, sealed product, accessories, and more at Card Kingdom: http://www.cardkingdom.com/command

ARCHIDEKT:

Discover, build, catalog, and playtest on Archidekt, the deck-building website that makes it easy to brew brand new lists or manage your old favorites. Go to http://www.archidekt.com/commandzone to get started today!

ULTRA PRO:

Huge thanks to Ultra PRO for sponsoring this episode! Be sure to check out their amazing APEX sleeves and super classy MANA 8 product line. If you want to keep your cards protected and support the show, visit: https://ultrapro.com/command

--------

Relevant Links:

CZ 714 | Murph's Ramses Overdark:

https://archidekt.com/decks/17724687/cz_714_murphs_ramses_overdark

CZ 714 | Jordan's Cid:

https://archidekt.com/decks/17724719/cz_714_jordans_cid

CZ 714 | Rachel Kendra's Kaalia (Demon Typal):

https://archidekt.com/decks/17724763/cz_714_rachel_kendras_kaalia_demon_typal

CZ 714 | Rachel Kendra's Kaalia (Blink):

https://archidekt.com/decks/17724796/cz_714_rachel_kendras_kaalia_blink

CZ 714 | Sebastian's Jerren:

https://archidekt.com/decks/17724820/cz_714_sebastians_jerren

EPIC Commander Combat w/ Pixie Kitten | Extra Turns 16:

https://youtu.be/ZUYN4tdCToQ?si=tp_ccR7Rw-45onXG

High-Energy Action w/ Jarvis Johnson | Extra Turns 54:

https://youtu.be/hRes8boLkVs?si=QDDkou5G_9Eqj41t

--------

Follow us on TikTok:

@thecommandzone

Follow us on Instagram:

@CommandCast

Follow us on Bluesky:

@commandcast.bsky.social

Follow us on Twitter:

@CommandCast

@JoshLeeKwai

@jfwong

@wachelreeks

Follow us on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/commandcast/

Email us:

[email protected]

--------

Commander Rules and Ban List:

https://magic.wizards.com/en/banned-restricted-list

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Another year, another batch of Commander precons. But how did 2025’s crop turn out?

With four Final Fantasy decks and a whole slew from within the worlds of Magic, there’s a lot to evaluate, so this episode we’re going one by one through every precon this year. We’ll be grading them each for playability, value, and just plain old fun! Come find out which decks pass, and which you should pass on.

--------

DUELING DRAGONS PLAYMAT KICKSTARTER:

We’ve got not one but TWO amazing new Game Knights playmats – get yours now before it’s too late! These epic dragon designs come together to form one stunning battlefield, especially in the PREMIUM spot foil version that’s unlike anything we’ve done before. Order yours today at: https://tinyurl.com/DuelingDragonsGK

--------

JOIN OUR PATREON:

Support the show and become a Patron! Be a part of our community, receive awesome rewards, and more! https://www.patreon.com/commandzone

--------

FACTOR:

Eat smart with Factor. To get 50% off your first box plus free breakfast for one year, use code command50off at: https://www.factormeals.com/command50off

SHOPIFY:

Power your business with Shopify. Start your one-dollar-per-month trial period today by going to: https://www.shopify.com/tcz

BROOKLYN BEDDING:

Ready to upgrade your sleep? Brooklyn Bedding has you covered! Get 30% off sitewide when you go to https://Brooklynbedding.com  and use promo code COMMAND!

--------

CARD KINGDOM:

The Command Zone is sponsored by Card Kingdom! If you want to receive your cards in one safe package and experience the best customer service, make sure to order your Magic cards, sealed product, accessories, and more at Card Kingdom: http://www.cardkingdom.com/command

ARCHIDEKT:

Discover, build, catalog, and playtest on Archidekt, the deck-building website that makes it easy to brew brand new lists or manage your old favorites. Go to http://www.archidekt.com/commandzone to get started today! 

ULTRA PRO:

Huge thanks to Ultra PRO for sponsoring this episode! Be sure to check out their amazing APEX sleeves and super classy MANA 8 product line. If you want to keep your cards protected and support the show, visit: https://ultrapro.com/command

--------

Relevant Links:

Tarkir: Dragonstorm w/ The Professor & AliasV | Game Knights 77:

https://youtu.be/-biWuhZQBs0?si=AP3KxTe3rDDh_fCc

FINAL FANTASY x MAGIC w/ Jacob Bertrand | Game Knights 78:

https://youtu.be/7X_W4OQfSn0?si=2gypI5XZN2TtO3Z7

Final Fantasy 7 - Commander Deck Upgrade Guide | “Limit Break” | The Command Zone 674:

https://youtu.be/xkypTAiPbkU?si=rYm_1gXJsAvhQ1m4

Universes Beyond: Avatar - Magic Director Explains Lack of Commander Decks:

https://mtg.cardsrealm.com/en-us/articles/universes-beyond-avatar-magic-director-explains-lack-of-commander-decks

--------

Follow us on TikTok:

@thecommandzone

Follow us on Instagram:

@CommandCast

Follow us on Bluesky:

@commandcast.bsky.social

Follow us on Twitter:

@CommandCast

@JoshLeeKwai

@jfwong

@wachelreeks

Follow us on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/commandcast/

Email us:

[email protected]

--------

Commander Rules and Ban List:

https://magic.wizards.com/en/banned-restricted-list

--------

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Want to upgrade a deck that’s multiple colors without spending multiple dollars? Look no further! This episode, we’re bringing you 10 powerful cards—one for each color pair—that cost under $10 TOTAL! This tech gives you a ton of bang for your buck, so don’t miss out on these underrated gems.

--------

JOIN OUR PATREON:

Support the show and become a Patron! Be a part of our community, receive awesome rewards, and more! https://www.patreon.com/commandzone

--------

HELLOFRESH:

The best way to cook just got better. Get 10 free meals plus a free Item for life when you go to: https://www.HelloFresh.com/command10fm

AG1:

Head to drinkag1.com/COMMAND to get a FREE Welcome Kit with an AG1 Flavor Sampler and a bottle of Vitamin D3 plus K2, when you first subscribe!

RAYCON:

Get 30% off SITEWIDE on Raycon audio products like the new Essential Open Earbuds during their Black Friday and Cyber Monday sale at: https://www.buyraycon.com/commandopen

--------

CARD KINGDOM:

The Command Zone is sponsored by Card Kingdom! If you want to receive your cards in one safe package and experience the best customer service, make sure to order your Magic cards, sealed product, accessories, and more at Card Kingdom: http://www.cardkingdom.com/command

ARCHIDEKT:

Discover, build, catalog, and playtest on Archidekt, the deck-building website that makes it easy to brew brand new lists or manage your old favorites. Go to http://www.archidekt.com/commandzone to get started today!

ULTRA PRO:

Huge thanks to Ultra PRO for sponsoring this episode! Be sure to check out their amazing APEX sleeves and super classy MANA 8 product line. If you want to keep your cards protected and support the show, visit: https://ultrapro.com/command

--------

Relevant Links:

CZ 712 | 10 Multicolored Cards for $10:

https://archidekt.com/decks/16597500/cz_712_10_multicolored_cards_for_10

Game Knights Spider-Man w/CovertGoBlue | #80:

https://youtu.be/d2r50q6Xa8w?si=X2t9C55jfwecSRL7

--------

Follow us on TikTok:

@thecommandzone

Follow us on Instagram:

@CommandCast

Follow us on Bluesky:

@commandcast.bsky.social

Follow us on Twitter:

@CommandCast

@JoshLeeKwai

@jfwong

@wachelreeks

Follow us on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/commandcast/

Email us:

[email protected]

--------

Commander Rules and Ban List:

https://magic.wizards.com/en/banned-restricted-list

--------

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Does the lack of Avatar precons have you airbent out of shape? Don’t worry, we’ve brewed four awesome new decks for you with powerful Last Airbender legends! These lists are ready right out of the iceberg, so if you want to bring the beatdown in some cool new ways, do NOT miss this episode.

--------

DUELING DRAGONS PLAYMAT KICKSTARTER:

We’ve got not one but TWO amazing new Game Knights playmats – get yours now before it’s too late! These epic dragon designs come together to form one stunning battlefield, especially in the PREMIUM spot foil version that’s unlike anything we’ve done before. Order yours today at: ⁠https://tinyurl.com/DuelingDragonsGK⁠

--------

JOIN OUR PATREON:

Support the show and become a Patron! Be a part of our community, receive awesome rewards, and more! ⁠https://www.patreon.com/commandzone⁠

--------

HELLOFRESH:

The best way to cook just got better. Get 10 free meals plus a free Item for life when you go to: ⁠https://www.HelloFresh.com/command10fm⁠

AG1:

Head to ⁠drinkag1.com/COMMAND⁠ to get a FREE Welcome Kit with an AG1 Flavor Sampler and a bottle of Vitamin D3 plus K2, when you first subscribe!

RAYCON:

Get 30% off SITEWIDE on Raycon audio products like the new Essential Open Earbuds during their Black Friday and Cyber Monday sale at: ⁠https://www.buyraycon.com/command⁠

--------

CARD KINGDOM:

The Command Zone is sponsored by Card Kingdom! If you want to receive your cards in one safe package and experience the best customer service, make sure to order your Magic cards, sealed product, accessories, and more at Card Kingdom: ⁠http://www.cardkingdom.com/command⁠

ARCHIDEKT:

Discover, build, catalog, and playtest on Archidekt, the deck-building website that makes it easy to brew brand new lists or manage your old favorites. Go to ⁠http://www.archidekt.com/commandzone⁠ to get started today!

ULTRA PRO:

Huge thanks to Ultra PRO for sponsoring this episode! Be sure to check out their amazing APEX sleeves and super classy MANA 8 product line. If you want to keep your cards protected and support the show, visit: ⁠https://ultrapro.com/command⁠

--------

Relevant Links:

CZ 711 | Katara, Waterbending Master:

⁠https://archidekt.com/decks/16761536/cz_711_katara_waterbending_master⁠

CZ 711 | Iroh, Tea Master:

⁠https://archidekt.com/decks/17183253/cz_711_iroh_tea_master⁠

CZ 711 | Toph, Hardheaded Teacher:

⁠https://archidekt.com/decks/17206288/cz_711_toph_hardheaded_teacher⁠

CZ 711 | Avatar Aang:

⁠https://archidekt.com/decks/17229792/cz_711_avatar_aang⁠

Avatar’s Most Powerful New Commanders | The Command Zone 709:

⁠https://youtu.be/f9320Lqo4eI⁠

--------

Follow us on TikTok:

@thecommandzone

Follow us on Instagram:

@CommandCast

Follow us on Bluesky:

@commandcast.bsky.social

Follow us on Twitter:

@CommandCast

@JoshLeeKwai

@jfwong

@wachelreeks

Follow us on Facebook:

⁠https://www.facebook.com/commandcast/⁠

Email us:

[email protected]

--------

Commander Rules and Ban List:

⁠https://magic.wizards.com/en/banned-restricted-list⁠

--------

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Looking for some powerful benders and badgermoles to upgrade your favorite Commander deck? Then this episode’ll quench ya, because we’re breaking down the best cards in the 99 from Magic’s latest set, Avatar: the Last Airbender. This set is packed with cool designs and potential new staples that’ll bring the four nations (and your three opponents) to their knees. So don’t miss out on our top picks!

--------

DUELING DRAGONS PLAYMAT KICKSTARTER:

We’ve got not one but TWO amazing new Game Knights playmats – get yours now before it’s too late! These epic dragon designs come together to form one stunning battlefield, especially in the PREMIUM spot foil version that’s unlike anything we’ve done before. Order yours today at: https://tinyurl.com/DuelingDragonsGK

--------

RIDGE:

Take advantage of Ridge’s Biggest Sale of the Year and GET UP TO 47% Off by going to https://www.Ridge.com/COMMAND #Ridgepod

SHOPIFY:

Power your business with Shopify. Start your one-dollar-per-month trial period today by going to: https://www.shopify.com/tcz

FACTOR:

Eat smart with Factor. To get 50% off your first box plus free breakfast for one year, use code command50off at: https://www.factormeals.com/command50off

WHATNOT:

We’re giving away Avatar: The Last Airbender Collector Boxes and a Switch 2 live on Whatnot Nov 21st at 3pm Pacific! Plus, get a free $15 on us off your first purchase on Whatnot when you sign up at: https://whatnot.com/invite/command #whatnotpartner

--------

CARD KINGDOM:

The Command Zone is sponsored by Card Kingdom! If you want to receive your cards in one safe package and experience the best customer service, make sure to order your Magic cards, sealed product, accessories, and more at Card Kingdom: http://www.cardkingdom.com/command

ARCHIDEKT:

Discover, build, catalog, and playtest on Archidekt, the deck-building website that makes it easy to brew brand new lists or manage your old favorites. Go to http://www.archidekt.com/commandzone to get started today!

ULTRA PRO:

Huge thanks to Ultra PRO for sponsoring this episode! Be sure to check out their amazing APEX sleeves and super classy MANA 8 product line. If you want to keep your cards protected and support the show, visit: https://ultrapro.com/command

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Relevant Links:

Pro Level Commander Advice from Actual Pros | The Command Zone 706:

https://youtu.be/5kDU67RVIhY?si=wI1Lc4qrMENjNl6W

JLK's Niko Decklist:

https://archidekt.com/decks/8500075/jlks_niko_game_knights_73

Avatar’s Most Powerful New Commanders | The Command Zone 709:

https://youtu.be/f9320Lqo4eI?si=EUIlrpWX1PegVYo7

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THE END STEP:

“Solar”:

https://www.solarthepodcast.com/

--------

Follow us on TikTok:

@thecommandzone

Follow us on Instagram:

@CommandCast

Follow us on Bluesky:

@commandcast.bsky.social

Follow us on Twitter:

@CommandCast

@JoshLeeKwai

@jfwong

@wachelreeks

Follow us on Facebook:

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Email us:

[email protected]

--------

Commander Rules and Ban List:

https://magic.wizards.com/en/banned-restricted-list

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Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Magic’s Avatar: The Last Airbender is finally emerging from the iceberg, ready to bring balance to Commander. But what if you don’t want balance? What if you want… POWER? Say no more! This episode, we’re laying out the most powerful legends from Avatar for your viewing pleasure. From humble cabbage merchants to mighty firelords, we’ll show you the strategies and synergies you need to brew a deck that can bend the elements (and your opponents) to your will!

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JOIN OUR PATREON:

Support the show and become a Patron! Be a part of our community, receive awesome rewards, and more! https://www.patreon.com/commandzone

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RAYCON:

Get 30% off SITEWIDE on Raycon audio products like the new Essential Open Earbuds during their Black Friday and Cyber Monday sale at: https://www.buyraycon.com/command

FABLETICS:

Become a Fabletics VIP to get 80% off EVERYTHING plus monthly credits toward items, bundles, and outfits. Sign up at: http://www.fabletics.com/command

SHOPIFY:

Power your business with Shopify. Start your one-dollar-per-month trial period today by going to: https://www.shopify.com/tcz

--------

CARD KINGDOM:

The Command Zone is sponsored by Card Kingdom! If you want to receive your cards in one safe package and experience the best customer service, make sure to order your Magic cards, sealed product, accessories, and more at Card Kingdom: http://www.cardkingdom.com/command

ARCHIDEKT:

Discover, build, catalog, and playtest on Archidekt, the deck-building website that makes it easy to brew brand new lists or manage your old favorites. Go to http://www.archidekt.com/commandzone to get started today!

ULTRA PRO:

Huge thanks to Ultra PRO for sponsoring this episode! Be sure to check out their amazing APEX sleeves and super classy MANA 8 product line. If you want to keep your cards protected and support the show, visit: https://ultrapro.com/command

--------

Relevant Links:

JLK's Elesh Norn Decklist:

https://archidekt.com/decks/4664167/jlks_elesh_norn_game_knights_59

--------

Follow us on TikTok:

@thecommandzone

Follow us on Instagram:

@CommandCast

Follow us on Bluesky:

@commandcast.bsky.social

Follow us on Twitter:

@CommandCast

@JoshLeeKwai

@jfwong

@wachelreeks

Follow us on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/commandcast/

Email us:

[email protected]

--------

Commander Rules and Ban List:

https://magic.wizards.com/en/banned-restricted-list

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From the format’s inception, color identity has been a core part of Commander, creating deck diversity by forcing players to work within restrictions. But should those limits be loosened for hybrid mana? In most formats, hybrid mana makes cards more versatile, but in Commander it actually holds them back. Lately, the Commander Format Panel has floated changing how hybrid mana works with color identity. Would this help the game, or hurt it? Don’t miss our in-depth breakdown.

--------

JOIN OUR PATREON:

Support the show and become a Patron! Be a part of our community, receive awesome rewards, and more! https://www.patreon.com/commandzone

--------

RAYCON:

Get 30% off SITEWIDE on Raycon audio products like the new Essential Open Earbuds during their Black Friday and Cyber Monday sale at: https://www.buyraycon.com/command

FABLETICS:

Become a Fabletics VIP to get 80% off EVERYTHING plus monthly credits toward items, bundles, and outfits. Sign up at: http://www.fabletics.com/command

SHOPIFY:

Power your business with Shopify. Start your one-dollar-per-month trial period today by going to: https://www.shopify.com/tcz

--------

CARD KINGDOM:

The Command Zone is sponsored by Card Kingdom! If you want to receive your cards in one safe package and experience the best customer service, make sure to order your Magic cards, sealed product, accessories, and more at Card Kingdom: http://www.cardkingdom.com/command

ARCHIDEKT:

Discover, build, catalog, and playtest on Archidekt, the deck-building website that makes it easy to brew brand new lists or manage your old favorites. Go to http://www.archidekt.com/commandzone to get started today!

ULTRA PRO:

Huge thanks to Ultra PRO for sponsoring this episode! Be sure to check out their amazing APEX sleeves and super classy MANA 8 product line. If you want to keep your cards protected and support the show, visit: https://ultrapro.com/command

--------

Relevant Links:

Commander Brackets Beta Update - October 21, 2025:

https://magic.wizards.com/en/news/announcements/commander-brackets-beta-update-october-21-2025

Archival Hybrid Opinion from the Rules Committee:

https://web.archive.org/web/20150329094715/http://mtgcommander.net/Forum/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=511

Mark Rosewater:

Twitter: @maro254

Blogatog: https://markrosewater.tumblr.com/

Drive to Work Podcast about Hybrid Mana:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5iD8SOCvFxKb06erswn4KQ?si=9TD47RNXQEq-yOMO0lRCrw

--------

Follow us on TikTok:

@thecommandzone

Follow us on Instagram:

@CommandCast

Follow us on Bluesky:

@commandcast.bsky.social

Follow us on Twitter:

@CommandCast

@JoshLeeKwai

@jfwong

@wachelreeks

Follow us on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/commandcast/

Email us:

[email protected]

--------

Commander Rules and Ban List:

https://magic.wizards.com/en/banned-restricted-list

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices