So I decided to make a Tiny Leaders deck featuring a lot of the cards that are banned in French 1v1 commander or other formats in a sad and pitiful attempt to get more people to play 1v1 at my store. If I dominate them everytime they'll want to play something else right? After some searching I found the following
I was wondering what I should put in the sideboard and if I should (or could) cut anything for a Thespian's Stage (for another Dark Depths combo interaction)?
Also what commander seems to be the best fit for this deck? I like Merieke to keep you alive against opposing monsters that hit the table but Sydri has some toys to play with in the deck as well.
My meta consists of Geist of Saint Traft, Anafenza, Shu-Yun and other less relevant decks.
"If fetch lands are reprinted I really believe they will be in allied colors (aka Onslaught fetches). If the fetch lands are reprinted you better believe that we'll all be fetching up basics. This would lead me to believe that the set after THS may have a reprint as the temples can't be fetched but it's pure speculation." - posted 03/22/2014 proved correct during Khans spoiler season.
"The set releases for fall 2015 (Blood, Sweat and Tears) and fall 2016 (Lock, Stock and Barrel). One or both of those 2 blocks (I'm betting) are going to contain either Fetch reprints or (more likely) Filter reprints. Filter lands still need a reprint. They are getting pretty high up there and it's been longer than ZEN so it makes a little more sense that Filter lands would see print earlier that fetches." - posted 03/22/2014 proved incorrect about filters coming earlier than fetches, still pending on filters in Origins block.
If you're expecting a lot of Geist, you're going to want some Edicts in your 60 somewhere.
Swap Sphinx's Revelation for Blue Sun's Zenith. It gives you a way to actually kill your opponent with infinite mana, which your deck doesn't really have right now, and it reshuffles itself so you can use it on yourself and still have it for later without having to worry about needing Snapcaster.
You should absolutely run Thespian's Stage, anything to make a combo more resilient. Nephalia Drownyard isn't doing that much for you anyway. 17 land isn't going to be enough though, even with a lot of cantrips. I think SoFaF is cuttable, but if you super want two swords in the deck I'd advise SoLaS anyway.
I worry that your artifact count is a bit low for Tinker.
As for who to use as commander, I like Merieke but you don't have any way to untap her. Run Thousand-Year Elixir if you want her, otherwise Sydri is probably better.
URGImperial AnimarGRU BRGProssh, Tokenmaker of KherGRB WURNarset NostalgicRUW UBR"I like your deck better" JelevaRBU UBlue BraidsU GAzusa, Lost but RampingG
WUHanna, Pillowfort's NavigatorUW WBRAleshacratsBRW UBRGrixis Pew PewRBU URGYasova the ThreateningGRU BGGlissa the ArticiferGB WUSygg MerfolkUW RSquee, Value NabobR
If you're expecting a lot of Geist, you're going to want some Edicts in your 60 somewhere.
Swap Sphinx's Revelation for Blue Sun's Zenith. It gives you a way to actually kill your opponent with infinite mana, which your deck doesn't really have right now, and it reshuffles itself so you can use it on yourself and still have it for later without having to worry about needing Snapcaster.
You should absolutely run Thespian's Stage, anything to make a combo more resilient. Nephalia Drownyard isn't doing that much for you anyway. 17 land isn't going to be enough though, even with a lot of cantrips. I think SoFaF is cuttable, but if you super want two swords in the deck I'd advise SoLaS anyway.
I worry that your artifact count is a bit low for Tinker.
As for who to use as commander, I like Merieke but you don't have any way to untap her. Run Thousand-Year Elixir if you want her, otherwise Sydri is probably better.
Tinker was in there simply to put 5 hard tutors for my combo and it works with the artifact lands as well. So if I run Thousand-Year I could make an ever better case for it.
I'm trying to get the deck to have multiple plans of attack because the combo is weak to ancient grudge, Rest in Peace etc... I put Drownyard as an alternate win-con (but Blue Sun's could be a better way), GoST is in there for the beatdown strategy and DD is my other gameplan. I'm definitely gonna throw my foil Mercadian Masques Counterspell in there (any excuse is a good one!)
As for Sphinx's Rev, I'm taking a bit of dmg on myself by setting up the early game with not many blockers, plus the Thoughtseize and BoB points add up. Is the lifegain neglegable in this format or is it worth running Blue Sun's Zenith because my combo (even Pili-Pala or any 1/1) gains me life from the GY?
I keep thinking "what about blood moon" and then I'm like "oh yeah... tiny" lol
How's the manabase look With Thespians Stage instead of Drownyard? Still need some more lands? I have Flooded Strand, Marsh Flats and Polluted Delta. Very few basics but I have 5 to fetch with a strand and delta.
"If fetch lands are reprinted I really believe they will be in allied colors (aka Onslaught fetches). If the fetch lands are reprinted you better believe that we'll all be fetching up basics. This would lead me to believe that the set after THS may have a reprint as the temples can't be fetched but it's pure speculation." - posted 03/22/2014 proved correct during Khans spoiler season.
"The set releases for fall 2015 (Blood, Sweat and Tears) and fall 2016 (Lock, Stock and Barrel). One or both of those 2 blocks (I'm betting) are going to contain either Fetch reprints or (more likely) Filter reprints. Filter lands still need a reprint. They are getting pretty high up there and it's been longer than ZEN so it makes a little more sense that Filter lands would see print earlier that fetches." - posted 03/22/2014 proved incorrect about filters coming earlier than fetches, still pending on filters in Origins block.
Thanks for the suggestions, what do I put on the chopping block to make room for these cards though? I'm thinking Thousand-Year Elixir is a good choice to put in (maybe cut SoFaF for it). As for the others I'm not entirely sure what to take out, I think cutting Nephalia Drownyard for Thespian's Stage is right, especially since I'm adding Blue Sun's Zenith in Sphinx's Revelation's spot. BSZ also acts as it's own win-con with the Pili-Pala + Grand Architect combo.
I know it isn't ideal but I was floating the idea of Liliana of the Veil in the SB for the edict effect, hitting the double black is iffy though... I suck at manabases.
"If fetch lands are reprinted I really believe they will be in allied colors (aka Onslaught fetches). If the fetch lands are reprinted you better believe that we'll all be fetching up basics. This would lead me to believe that the set after THS may have a reprint as the temples can't be fetched but it's pure speculation." - posted 03/22/2014 proved correct during Khans spoiler season.
"The set releases for fall 2015 (Blood, Sweat and Tears) and fall 2016 (Lock, Stock and Barrel). One or both of those 2 blocks (I'm betting) are going to contain either Fetch reprints or (more likely) Filter reprints. Filter lands still need a reprint. They are getting pretty high up there and it's been longer than ZEN so it makes a little more sense that Filter lands would see print earlier that fetches." - posted 03/22/2014 proved incorrect about filters coming earlier than fetches, still pending on filters in Origins block.
What should I take out for these cards? Dimir charm in counterspell's place? I'm guessing we're gonna be cutting some of the instants and sorceries but I dunno which ones.
"If fetch lands are reprinted I really believe they will be in allied colors (aka Onslaught fetches). If the fetch lands are reprinted you better believe that we'll all be fetching up basics. This would lead me to believe that the set after THS may have a reprint as the temples can't be fetched but it's pure speculation." - posted 03/22/2014 proved correct during Khans spoiler season.
"The set releases for fall 2015 (Blood, Sweat and Tears) and fall 2016 (Lock, Stock and Barrel). One or both of those 2 blocks (I'm betting) are going to contain either Fetch reprints or (more likely) Filter reprints. Filter lands still need a reprint. They are getting pretty high up there and it's been longer than ZEN so it makes a little more sense that Filter lands would see print earlier that fetches." - posted 03/22/2014 proved incorrect about filters coming earlier than fetches, still pending on filters in Origins block.
After a gatherer search I found Paraselene and Tempest of Light in place of Cleanfall.
Also had a question about Condemn, tuck isn't legal in Tiny Leaders for commanders correct? What exactly do I not want to hit the yard? Necrotic Ooze is gone as well as a lot of the troublesome flashback creatures. I'm sure I'm overlooking something but isn't that just another Swords to Plowshares (which isn't bad)?
"If fetch lands are reprinted I really believe they will be in allied colors (aka Onslaught fetches). If the fetch lands are reprinted you better believe that we'll all be fetching up basics. This would lead me to believe that the set after THS may have a reprint as the temples can't be fetched but it's pure speculation." - posted 03/22/2014 proved correct during Khans spoiler season.
"The set releases for fall 2015 (Blood, Sweat and Tears) and fall 2016 (Lock, Stock and Barrel). One or both of those 2 blocks (I'm betting) are going to contain either Fetch reprints or (more likely) Filter reprints. Filter lands still need a reprint. They are getting pretty high up there and it's been longer than ZEN so it makes a little more sense that Filter lands would see print earlier that fetches." - posted 03/22/2014 proved incorrect about filters coming earlier than fetches, still pending on filters in Origins block.
Nein. Counterspell is the best counter spell in your deck. Ditch Mana Leak if you want to drop a counter spell. Personally I'm not in love with Thirst for Knowledge in your deck, you just don't have very many artifacts and you basically never want to discard any of them.
URGImperial AnimarGRU BRGProssh, Tokenmaker of KherGRB WURNarset NostalgicRUW UBR"I like your deck better" JelevaRBU UBlue BraidsU GAzusa, Lost but RampingG
WUHanna, Pillowfort's NavigatorUW WBRAleshacratsBRW UBRGrixis Pew PewRBU URGYasova the ThreateningGRU BGGlissa the ArticiferGB WUSygg MerfolkUW RSquee, Value NabobR
Nein. Counterspell is the best counter spell in your deck. Ditch Mana Leak if you want to drop a counter spell. Personally I'm not in love with Thirst for Knowledge in your deck, you just don't have very many artifacts and you basically never want to discard any of them.
Still think the manabase might need help. If I lose Tinker for Fabricate then I'll probably lose the artifact lands as well, although being able to tutor for fixing is super nice.
I was also thinking Mystical Tutor could go for something as most of the time it's simply a tutor for another tutor. But it could grab that Counterspell I needed. I'm torn, I need more slots to work with!
"If fetch lands are reprinted I really believe they will be in allied colors (aka Onslaught fetches). If the fetch lands are reprinted you better believe that we'll all be fetching up basics. This would lead me to believe that the set after THS may have a reprint as the temples can't be fetched but it's pure speculation." - posted 03/22/2014 proved correct during Khans spoiler season.
"The set releases for fall 2015 (Blood, Sweat and Tears) and fall 2016 (Lock, Stock and Barrel). One or both of those 2 blocks (I'm betting) are going to contain either Fetch reprints or (more likely) Filter reprints. Filter lands still need a reprint. They are getting pretty high up there and it's been longer than ZEN so it makes a little more sense that Filter lands would see print earlier that fetches." - posted 03/22/2014 proved incorrect about filters coming earlier than fetches, still pending on filters in Origins block.
I think if you're considering not running Misstep, it's a mistake. I consider it straight up better than Spell Snare, which you are running.
Good point about Mystical Tutor. The card advantage just isn't worth it if you can't go find a combo piece or some kind of toolboxed answer, which means you've really only got it for Blue Sun's Zenith after some infinite mana. If you have one you could easily swap it for a Vampiric Tutor.
URGImperial AnimarGRU BRGProssh, Tokenmaker of KherGRB WURNarset NostalgicRUW UBR"I like your deck better" JelevaRBU UBlue BraidsU GAzusa, Lost but RampingG
WUHanna, Pillowfort's NavigatorUW WBRAleshacratsBRW UBRGrixis Pew PewRBU URGYasova the ThreateningGRU BGGlissa the ArticiferGB WUSygg MerfolkUW RSquee, Value NabobR
I think if you're considering not running Misstep, it's a mistake. I consider it straight up better than Spell Snare, which you are running.
Good point about Mystical Tutor. The card advantage just isn't worth it if you can't go find a combo piece or some kind of toolboxed answer, which means you've really only got it for Blue Sun's Zenith after some infinite mana. If you have one you could easily swap it for a Vampiric Tutor.
So what do I cut for the land? I have Minamo and Vampiric Tutor, just wondering if my manabase is off. I like mental misstep as a "surprise, you thought I was tapped out" gotcha moment. I think I might cut the Mystical Tutor for Minamo, School at Water's Edge then swap Spell Snare with Mental Misstep. I'll goldfish the deck a bit to see if the mana is working. If not, then I'm screwed cuz I don't really know how to make decent manabases lol.
"If fetch lands are reprinted I really believe they will be in allied colors (aka Onslaught fetches). If the fetch lands are reprinted you better believe that we'll all be fetching up basics. This would lead me to believe that the set after THS may have a reprint as the temples can't be fetched but it's pure speculation." - posted 03/22/2014 proved correct during Khans spoiler season.
"The set releases for fall 2015 (Blood, Sweat and Tears) and fall 2016 (Lock, Stock and Barrel). One or both of those 2 blocks (I'm betting) are going to contain either Fetch reprints or (more likely) Filter reprints. Filter lands still need a reprint. They are getting pretty high up there and it's been longer than ZEN so it makes a little more sense that Filter lands would see print earlier that fetches." - posted 03/22/2014 proved incorrect about filters coming earlier than fetches, still pending on filters in Origins block.
Probably want to update the OP so we have a better idea of what we're looking at. I support those changes right there, and when you update your list I can give you some thoughts on the manabase.
URGImperial AnimarGRU BRGProssh, Tokenmaker of KherGRB WURNarset NostalgicRUW UBR"I like your deck better" JelevaRBU UBlue BraidsU GAzusa, Lost but RampingG
WUHanna, Pillowfort's NavigatorUW WBRAleshacratsBRW UBRGrixis Pew PewRBU URGYasova the ThreateningGRU BGGlissa the ArticiferGB WUSygg MerfolkUW RSquee, Value NabobR
Probably want to update the OP so we have a better idea of what we're looking at. I support those changes right there, and when you update your list I can give you some thoughts on the manabase.
Got it updated.
Feels like there's an inclination to want black early for disruption early but the disruption is more for combo protection than it is to wreck a hand.
"If fetch lands are reprinted I really believe they will be in allied colors (aka Onslaught fetches). If the fetch lands are reprinted you better believe that we'll all be fetching up basics. This would lead me to believe that the set after THS may have a reprint as the temples can't be fetched but it's pure speculation." - posted 03/22/2014 proved correct during Khans spoiler season.
"The set releases for fall 2015 (Blood, Sweat and Tears) and fall 2016 (Lock, Stock and Barrel). One or both of those 2 blocks (I'm betting) are going to contain either Fetch reprints or (more likely) Filter reprints. Filter lands still need a reprint. They are getting pretty high up there and it's been longer than ZEN so it makes a little more sense that Filter lands would see print earlier that fetches." - posted 03/22/2014 proved incorrect about filters coming earlier than fetches, still pending on filters in Origins block.
Yeah, your deck is overwhelmingly blue. White is basically a splash and black isn't much more present. On that note, I really suggest dropping Meddling Mage for Vampiric Tutor. In a singleton format which as diverse and efficient removal as this, he's never going to be relevant.
That being said, are you intent on not running fetchlands? They'd improve your situations immensely. I'd recommend just ditching the artifact lands as well as Thirst For Knowledge and to make room for another land.
URGImperial AnimarGRU BRGProssh, Tokenmaker of KherGRB WURNarset NostalgicRUW UBR"I like your deck better" JelevaRBU UBlue BraidsU GAzusa, Lost but RampingG
WUHanna, Pillowfort's NavigatorUW WBRAleshacratsBRW UBRGrixis Pew PewRBU URGYasova the ThreateningGRU BGGlissa the ArticiferGB WUSygg MerfolkUW RSquee, Value NabobR
Yeah, your deck is overwhelmingly blue. White is basically a splash and black isn't much more present. On that note, I really suggest dropping Meddling Mage for Vampiric Tutor. In a singleton format which as diverse and efficient removal as this, he's never going to be relevant.
That being said, are you intent on not running fetchlands? They'd improve your situations immensely. I'd recommend just ditching the artifact lands as well as Thirst For Knowledge and to make room for another land.
The artifact lands are in there for Tinker, although if I swap that for Fabricate I could easily get rid of them. I have Polluted Delta and Flooded Strand, just wasn't thinking I needed more hits on my life but it's probably negligible at this point.
That'd be about as streamlined as I could make it. Would have to see how relevant the "put it on the battlefield" clause is for Tinker or how many times I drew it with no artifact to sac.
"If fetch lands are reprinted I really believe they will be in allied colors (aka Onslaught fetches). If the fetch lands are reprinted you better believe that we'll all be fetching up basics. This would lead me to believe that the set after THS may have a reprint as the temples can't be fetched but it's pure speculation." - posted 03/22/2014 proved correct during Khans spoiler season.
"The set releases for fall 2015 (Blood, Sweat and Tears) and fall 2016 (Lock, Stock and Barrel). One or both of those 2 blocks (I'm betting) are going to contain either Fetch reprints or (more likely) Filter reprints. Filter lands still need a reprint. They are getting pretty high up there and it's been longer than ZEN so it makes a little more sense that Filter lands would see print earlier that fetches." - posted 03/22/2014 proved incorrect about filters coming earlier than fetches, still pending on filters in Origins block.
Any thoughts on what the last two lands should be?
Here's an updated decklist, also wondering if the amount of digging is going to cause a flood although I suppose I can goldfish this to find it all out.
"If fetch lands are reprinted I really believe they will be in allied colors (aka Onslaught fetches). If the fetch lands are reprinted you better believe that we'll all be fetching up basics. This would lead me to believe that the set after THS may have a reprint as the temples can't be fetched but it's pure speculation." - posted 03/22/2014 proved correct during Khans spoiler season.
"The set releases for fall 2015 (Blood, Sweat and Tears) and fall 2016 (Lock, Stock and Barrel). One or both of those 2 blocks (I'm betting) are going to contain either Fetch reprints or (more likely) Filter reprints. Filter lands still need a reprint. They are getting pretty high up there and it's been longer than ZEN so it makes a little more sense that Filter lands would see print earlier that fetches." - posted 03/22/2014 proved incorrect about filters coming earlier than fetches, still pending on filters in Origins block.
Erm, there's a vampiric tutor in your creatures section which is both not a creature and banned in this format. I assumed it was supposed to be a vampire hexmage, but then that would make two in the deck Is it supposed to be the Meddling Mage that was in your first decklist?
Erm, there's a vampiric tutor in your creatures section which is both not a creature and banned in this format. I assumed it was supposed to be a vampire hexmage, but then that would make two in the deck Is it supposed to be the Meddling Mage that was in your first decklist?
Ah, it was a suggestion and I didn't realize it was banned. I suppose the Meddling Mage is there to stay in that case. I'll edit it to reflect the change. Thanks for catching that.
"If fetch lands are reprinted I really believe they will be in allied colors (aka Onslaught fetches). If the fetch lands are reprinted you better believe that we'll all be fetching up basics. This would lead me to believe that the set after THS may have a reprint as the temples can't be fetched but it's pure speculation." - posted 03/22/2014 proved correct during Khans spoiler season.
"The set releases for fall 2015 (Blood, Sweat and Tears) and fall 2016 (Lock, Stock and Barrel). One or both of those 2 blocks (I'm betting) are going to contain either Fetch reprints or (more likely) Filter reprints. Filter lands still need a reprint. They are getting pretty high up there and it's been longer than ZEN so it makes a little more sense that Filter lands would see print earlier that fetches." - posted 03/22/2014 proved incorrect about filters coming earlier than fetches, still pending on filters in Origins block.
So after goldfishing, Darkslick Shores is more often than not just a CIPT land. Is there anything better that I could run besides the Temples? Maybe a Glacial Fortress and -1 Island for +1 Swamp is the way to go here.
"If fetch lands are reprinted I really believe they will be in allied colors (aka Onslaught fetches). If the fetch lands are reprinted you better believe that we'll all be fetching up basics. This would lead me to believe that the set after THS may have a reprint as the temples can't be fetched but it's pure speculation." - posted 03/22/2014 proved correct during Khans spoiler season.
"The set releases for fall 2015 (Blood, Sweat and Tears) and fall 2016 (Lock, Stock and Barrel). One or both of those 2 blocks (I'm betting) are going to contain either Fetch reprints or (more likely) Filter reprints. Filter lands still need a reprint. They are getting pretty high up there and it's been longer than ZEN so it makes a little more sense that Filter lands would see print earlier that fetches." - posted 03/22/2014 proved incorrect about filters coming earlier than fetches, still pending on filters in Origins block.
Assuming original duals and zendikar fetches are off limit, you could run a Godless shrine and more off-color fetches (Heath, Mire). They're not ideal, but they always come into play untapped when you need them. They're especially important with brainstorm.
Assuming original duals and zendikar fetches are off limit, you could run a Godless shrine and more off-color fetches (Heath, Mire). They're not ideal, but they always come into play untapped when you need them. They're especially important with brainstorm.
"If fetch lands are reprinted I really believe they will be in allied colors (aka Onslaught fetches). If the fetch lands are reprinted you better believe that we'll all be fetching up basics. This would lead me to believe that the set after THS may have a reprint as the temples can't be fetched but it's pure speculation." - posted 03/22/2014 proved correct during Khans spoiler season.
"The set releases for fall 2015 (Blood, Sweat and Tears) and fall 2016 (Lock, Stock and Barrel). One or both of those 2 blocks (I'm betting) are going to contain either Fetch reprints or (more likely) Filter reprints. Filter lands still need a reprint. They are getting pretty high up there and it's been longer than ZEN so it makes a little more sense that Filter lands would see print earlier that fetches." - posted 03/22/2014 proved incorrect about filters coming earlier than fetches, still pending on filters in Origins block.
"If fetch lands are reprinted I really believe they will be in allied colors (aka Onslaught fetches). If the fetch lands are reprinted you better believe that we'll all be fetching up basics. This would lead me to believe that the set after THS may have a reprint as the temples can't be fetched but it's pure speculation." - posted 03/22/2014 proved correct during Khans spoiler season.
"The set releases for fall 2015 (Blood, Sweat and Tears) and fall 2016 (Lock, Stock and Barrel). One or both of those 2 blocks (I'm betting) are going to contain either Fetch reprints or (more likely) Filter reprints. Filter lands still need a reprint. They are getting pretty high up there and it's been longer than ZEN so it makes a little more sense that Filter lands would see print earlier that fetches." - posted 03/22/2014 proved incorrect about filters coming earlier than fetches, still pending on filters in Origins block.
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Here's the list:
Leader is:
Merieke Ri Berit
1x Bitterblossom
Creature: 7
1x Dark Confidant
1x Vampire Hexmage
1x Vendilion Clique
1x Geist of Saint Traft
1x Grand Architect
1x Meddling Mage
1x Snapcaster Mage
Artifact: 5
1x Sword of Fire and Ice
1x Thousand-Year Elixir
1x Sword of the Meek
1x Thopter Foundry
1x Pili-Pala
Instant: 12
1x Mana Leak
1x Counterspell
1x Muddle the Mixture
1x Brainstorm
1x Mental Misstep
1x Enlightened Tutor
1x Blue Sun's Zenith
1x Repeal
1x Path to Exile
1x Smother
1x Swords to Plowshares
1x Thirst for Knowledge
1x Tinker
1x Inquisition of Kozilek
1x Thoughtseize
1x Compulsive Research
1x Preordain
1x Ponder
Land: 18
4x Island
1x Swamp
1x Plains
1x Minamo, School at Water's Edge
1x Academy Ruins
1x Thespian's Stage
1x Dark Depths
1x Drowned Catacomb
1x Watery Grave
1x Hallowed Fountain
1x Ancient Den
1x Seat of the Synod
1x Vault of Whispers
1x Sunken Ruins
1x Urborg, Tomb of Yawgmoth
I was wondering what I should put in the sideboard and if I should (or could) cut anything for a Thespian's Stage (for another Dark Depths combo interaction)?
Also what commander seems to be the best fit for this deck? I like Merieke to keep you alive against opposing monsters that hit the table but Sydri has some toys to play with in the deck as well.
My meta consists of Geist of Saint Traft, Anafenza, Shu-Yun and other less relevant decks.
"The set releases for fall 2015 (Blood, Sweat and Tears) and fall 2016 (Lock, Stock and Barrel). One or both of those 2 blocks (I'm betting) are going to contain either Fetch reprints or (more likely) Filter reprints. Filter lands still need a reprint. They are getting pretty high up there and it's been longer than ZEN so it makes a little more sense that Filter lands would see print earlier that fetches." - posted 03/22/2014 proved incorrect about filters coming earlier than fetches, still pending on filters in Origins block.
If you're expecting a lot of Geist, you're going to want some Edicts in your 60 somewhere.
Swap Sphinx's Revelation for Blue Sun's Zenith. It gives you a way to actually kill your opponent with infinite mana, which your deck doesn't really have right now, and it reshuffles itself so you can use it on yourself and still have it for later without having to worry about needing Snapcaster.
You should absolutely run Thespian's Stage, anything to make a combo more resilient. Nephalia Drownyard isn't doing that much for you anyway. 17 land isn't going to be enough though, even with a lot of cantrips. I think SoFaF is cuttable, but if you super want two swords in the deck I'd advise SoLaS anyway.
Counterspell over Negate all day long. Mental Misstep is also really strong in this format.
I worry that your artifact count is a bit low for Tinker.
As for who to use as commander, I like Merieke but you don't have any way to untap her. Run Thousand-Year Elixir if you want her, otherwise Sydri is probably better.
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Modern: BRGLiving EndGRB
Legacy: UBGShardless BUGGBU
BRGProssh, Tokenmaker of KherGRB
WURNarset NostalgicRUW
UBR"I like your deck better" JelevaRBU
UBlue BraidsU
GAzusa, Lost but RampingG
WBRAleshacratsBRW
UBRGrixis Pew PewRBU
URGYasova the ThreateningGRU
BGGlissa the ArticiferGB
WUSygg MerfolkUW
RSquee, Value NabobR
Tinker was in there simply to put 5 hard tutors for my combo and it works with the artifact lands as well. So if I run Thousand-Year I could make an ever better case for it.
I'm trying to get the deck to have multiple plans of attack because the combo is weak to ancient grudge, Rest in Peace etc... I put Drownyard as an alternate win-con (but Blue Sun's could be a better way), GoST is in there for the beatdown strategy and DD is my other gameplan. I'm definitely gonna throw my foil Mercadian Masques Counterspell in there (any excuse is a good one!)
As for Sphinx's Rev, I'm taking a bit of dmg on myself by setting up the early game with not many blockers, plus the Thoughtseize and BoB points add up. Is the lifegain neglegable in this format or is it worth running Blue Sun's Zenith because my combo (even Pili-Pala or any 1/1) gains me life from the GY?
I keep thinking "what about blood moon" and then I'm like "oh yeah... tiny" lol
How's the manabase look With Thespians Stage instead of Drownyard? Still need some more lands? I have Flooded Strand, Marsh Flats and Polluted Delta. Very few basics but I have 5 to fetch with a strand and delta.
"The set releases for fall 2015 (Blood, Sweat and Tears) and fall 2016 (Lock, Stock and Barrel). One or both of those 2 blocks (I'm betting) are going to contain either Fetch reprints or (more likely) Filter reprints. Filter lands still need a reprint. They are getting pretty high up there and it's been longer than ZEN so it makes a little more sense that Filter lands would see print earlier that fetches." - posted 03/22/2014 proved incorrect about filters coming earlier than fetches, still pending on filters in Origins block.
I also like Stoneforge Mystic to fetch either Sword of the Meek or Sword of Feast and Famine.
For SB, I am looking at
Circle of Protection: Red + Circle of Protection: Green
Relic of Progenitus
Threads of Disloyalty
Blue Elemental Blast + Hydroblast
Cleanfall
Condemn
Pithing Needle
Thanks for the suggestions, what do I put on the chopping block to make room for these cards though? I'm thinking Thousand-Year Elixir is a good choice to put in (maybe cut SoFaF for it). As for the others I'm not entirely sure what to take out, I think cutting Nephalia Drownyard for Thespian's Stage is right, especially since I'm adding Blue Sun's Zenith in Sphinx's Revelation's spot. BSZ also acts as it's own win-con with the Pili-Pala + Grand Architect combo.
I know it isn't ideal but I was floating the idea of Liliana of the Veil in the SB for the edict effect, hitting the double black is iffy though... I suck at manabases.
"The set releases for fall 2015 (Blood, Sweat and Tears) and fall 2016 (Lock, Stock and Barrel). One or both of those 2 blocks (I'm betting) are going to contain either Fetch reprints or (more likely) Filter reprints. Filter lands still need a reprint. They are getting pretty high up there and it's been longer than ZEN so it makes a little more sense that Filter lands would see print earlier that fetches." - posted 03/22/2014 proved incorrect about filters coming earlier than fetches, still pending on filters in Origins block.
Lim-Dul's Vault for premium deck-sifting
Chromatic Lantern to smooth out the manabase
Proteus Staff to turn BB tokens into real creatures (or tuck opposing threats)
Fabricate - easier to use than Tinker
Vodalian Illusionist - good repeatable effect
Dimir Charm - way better in TL
What should I take out for these cards? Dimir charm in counterspell's place? I'm guessing we're gonna be cutting some of the instants and sorceries but I dunno which ones.
"The set releases for fall 2015 (Blood, Sweat and Tears) and fall 2016 (Lock, Stock and Barrel). One or both of those 2 blocks (I'm betting) are going to contain either Fetch reprints or (more likely) Filter reprints. Filter lands still need a reprint. They are getting pretty high up there and it's been longer than ZEN so it makes a little more sense that Filter lands would see print earlier that fetches." - posted 03/22/2014 proved incorrect about filters coming earlier than fetches, still pending on filters in Origins block.
After a gatherer search I found
Paraselene and Tempest of Light in place of Cleanfall.
Also had a question about Condemn, tuck isn't legal in Tiny Leaders for commanders correct? What exactly do I not want to hit the yard? Necrotic Ooze is gone as well as a lot of the troublesome flashback creatures. I'm sure I'm overlooking something but isn't that just another Swords to Plowshares (which isn't bad)?
"The set releases for fall 2015 (Blood, Sweat and Tears) and fall 2016 (Lock, Stock and Barrel). One or both of those 2 blocks (I'm betting) are going to contain either Fetch reprints or (more likely) Filter reprints. Filter lands still need a reprint. They are getting pretty high up there and it's been longer than ZEN so it makes a little more sense that Filter lands would see print earlier that fetches." - posted 03/22/2014 proved incorrect about filters coming earlier than fetches, still pending on filters in Origins block.
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Modern: BRGLiving EndGRB
Legacy: UBGShardless BUGGBU
BRGProssh, Tokenmaker of KherGRB
WURNarset NostalgicRUW
UBR"I like your deck better" JelevaRBU
UBlue BraidsU
GAzusa, Lost but RampingG
WBRAleshacratsBRW
UBRGrixis Pew PewRBU
URGYasova the ThreateningGRU
BGGlissa the ArticiferGB
WUSygg MerfolkUW
RSquee, Value NabobR
So how would it look with
-1 Thirst for Knowledge
-1 Sword of Feast and Famine
+1 Thousand-Year Elixir
+1 Polluted Delta (or temple or gainland) or Mental Misstep
Still think the manabase might need help. If I lose Tinker for Fabricate then I'll probably lose the artifact lands as well, although being able to tutor for fixing is super nice.
I was also thinking Mystical Tutor could go for something as most of the time it's simply a tutor for another tutor. But it could grab that Counterspell I needed. I'm torn, I need more slots to work with!
"The set releases for fall 2015 (Blood, Sweat and Tears) and fall 2016 (Lock, Stock and Barrel). One or both of those 2 blocks (I'm betting) are going to contain either Fetch reprints or (more likely) Filter reprints. Filter lands still need a reprint. They are getting pretty high up there and it's been longer than ZEN so it makes a little more sense that Filter lands would see print earlier that fetches." - posted 03/22/2014 proved incorrect about filters coming earlier than fetches, still pending on filters in Origins block.
Good point about Mystical Tutor. The card advantage just isn't worth it if you can't go find a combo piece or some kind of toolboxed answer, which means you've really only got it for Blue Sun's Zenith after some infinite mana. If you have one you could easily swap it for a Vampiric Tutor.
Also, you should probably be running Minamo, School at Water's Edge for Merieke.
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Modern: BRGLiving EndGRB
Legacy: UBGShardless BUGGBU
BRGProssh, Tokenmaker of KherGRB
WURNarset NostalgicRUW
UBR"I like your deck better" JelevaRBU
UBlue BraidsU
GAzusa, Lost but RampingG
WBRAleshacratsBRW
UBRGrixis Pew PewRBU
URGYasova the ThreateningGRU
BGGlissa the ArticiferGB
WUSygg MerfolkUW
RSquee, Value NabobR
So what do I cut for the land? I have Minamo and Vampiric Tutor, just wondering if my manabase is off. I like mental misstep as a "surprise, you thought I was tapped out" gotcha moment. I think I might cut the Mystical Tutor for Minamo, School at Water's Edge then swap Spell Snare with Mental Misstep. I'll goldfish the deck a bit to see if the mana is working. If not, then I'm screwed cuz I don't really know how to make decent manabases lol.
"The set releases for fall 2015 (Blood, Sweat and Tears) and fall 2016 (Lock, Stock and Barrel). One or both of those 2 blocks (I'm betting) are going to contain either Fetch reprints or (more likely) Filter reprints. Filter lands still need a reprint. They are getting pretty high up there and it's been longer than ZEN so it makes a little more sense that Filter lands would see print earlier that fetches." - posted 03/22/2014 proved incorrect about filters coming earlier than fetches, still pending on filters in Origins block.
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Modern: BRGLiving EndGRB
Legacy: UBGShardless BUGGBU
BRGProssh, Tokenmaker of KherGRB
WURNarset NostalgicRUW
UBR"I like your deck better" JelevaRBU
UBlue BraidsU
GAzusa, Lost but RampingG
WBRAleshacratsBRW
UBRGrixis Pew PewRBU
URGYasova the ThreateningGRU
BGGlissa the ArticiferGB
WUSygg MerfolkUW
RSquee, Value NabobR
Got it updated.
Feels like there's an inclination to want black early for disruption early but the disruption is more for combo protection than it is to wreck a hand.
"The set releases for fall 2015 (Blood, Sweat and Tears) and fall 2016 (Lock, Stock and Barrel). One or both of those 2 blocks (I'm betting) are going to contain either Fetch reprints or (more likely) Filter reprints. Filter lands still need a reprint. They are getting pretty high up there and it's been longer than ZEN so it makes a little more sense that Filter lands would see print earlier that fetches." - posted 03/22/2014 proved incorrect about filters coming earlier than fetches, still pending on filters in Origins block.
That being said, are you intent on not running fetchlands? They'd improve your situations immensely. I'd recommend just ditching the artifact lands as well as Thirst For Knowledge and to make room for another land.
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Modern: BRGLiving EndGRB
Legacy: UBGShardless BUGGBU
BRGProssh, Tokenmaker of KherGRB
WURNarset NostalgicRUW
UBR"I like your deck better" JelevaRBU
UBlue BraidsU
GAzusa, Lost but RampingG
WBRAleshacratsBRW
UBRGrixis Pew PewRBU
URGYasova the ThreateningGRU
BGGlissa the ArticiferGB
WUSygg MerfolkUW
RSquee, Value NabobR
The artifact lands are in there for Tinker, although if I swap that for Fabricate I could easily get rid of them. I have Polluted Delta and Flooded Strand, just wasn't thinking I needed more hits on my life but it's probably negligible at this point.
So
- Tinker
- Thirst for Knowledge
- Ancient Den
- Seat of the Synod
- Vault of Whispers
+ Fabricate
+ Polluted Delta
+ Flooded Strand
+ Darkslick Shores/Swamp?
+ Island probably, could run Temple of Deceit or Seachrome Coast, maybe a Glacial Fortress
That'd be about as streamlined as I could make it. Would have to see how relevant the "put it on the battlefield" clause is for Tinker or how many times I drew it with no artifact to sac.
"The set releases for fall 2015 (Blood, Sweat and Tears) and fall 2016 (Lock, Stock and Barrel). One or both of those 2 blocks (I'm betting) are going to contain either Fetch reprints or (more likely) Filter reprints. Filter lands still need a reprint. They are getting pretty high up there and it's been longer than ZEN so it makes a little more sense that Filter lands would see print earlier that fetches." - posted 03/22/2014 proved incorrect about filters coming earlier than fetches, still pending on filters in Origins block.
Here's an updated decklist, also wondering if the amount of digging is going to cause a flood although I suppose I can goldfish this to find it all out.
1x Bitterblossom
Creature: 7
1x Dark Confidant
1x Vampire Hexmage
1x Vendilion Clique
1x Geist of Saint Traft
1x Grand Architect
1x Meddling Mage
1x Snapcaster Mage
Artifact: 5
1x Sword of Fire and Ice
1x Thousand-Year Elixir
1x Sword of the Meek
1x Thopter Foundry
1x Pili-Pala
Instant: 11
1x Mana Leak
1x Counterspell
1x Muddle the Mixture
1x Brainstorm
1x Mental Misstep
1x Enlightened Tutor
1x Blue Sun's Zenith
1x Repeal
1x Path to Exile
1x Smother
1x Swords to Plowshares
1x Fabricate
1x Inquisition of Kozilek
1x Thoughtseize
1x Compulsive Research
1x Preordain
1x Ponder
Land: 19
5x Island (1 is flex)
1x Swamp
1x Plains
1x Minamo, School at Water's Edge
1x Academy Ruins
1x Thespian's Stage
1x Dark Depths
1x Drowned Catacomb
1x Watery Grave
1x Hallowed Fountain
1x Polluted Delta
1x Flooded Strand
1x Darkslick Shores (flex)
1x Sunken Ruins
1x Urborg, Tomb of Yawgmoth
"The set releases for fall 2015 (Blood, Sweat and Tears) and fall 2016 (Lock, Stock and Barrel). One or both of those 2 blocks (I'm betting) are going to contain either Fetch reprints or (more likely) Filter reprints. Filter lands still need a reprint. They are getting pretty high up there and it's been longer than ZEN so it makes a little more sense that Filter lands would see print earlier that fetches." - posted 03/22/2014 proved incorrect about filters coming earlier than fetches, still pending on filters in Origins block.
Ah, it was a suggestion and I didn't realize it was banned. I suppose the Meddling Mage is there to stay in that case. I'll edit it to reflect the change. Thanks for catching that.
"The set releases for fall 2015 (Blood, Sweat and Tears) and fall 2016 (Lock, Stock and Barrel). One or both of those 2 blocks (I'm betting) are going to contain either Fetch reprints or (more likely) Filter reprints. Filter lands still need a reprint. They are getting pretty high up there and it's been longer than ZEN so it makes a little more sense that Filter lands would see print earlier that fetches." - posted 03/22/2014 proved incorrect about filters coming earlier than fetches, still pending on filters in Origins block.
"The set releases for fall 2015 (Blood, Sweat and Tears) and fall 2016 (Lock, Stock and Barrel). One or both of those 2 blocks (I'm betting) are going to contain either Fetch reprints or (more likely) Filter reprints. Filter lands still need a reprint. They are getting pretty high up there and it's been longer than ZEN so it makes a little more sense that Filter lands would see print earlier that fetches." - posted 03/22/2014 proved incorrect about filters coming earlier than fetches, still pending on filters in Origins block.
I have a Marsh Flats I can throw in there.
"The set releases for fall 2015 (Blood, Sweat and Tears) and fall 2016 (Lock, Stock and Barrel). One or both of those 2 blocks (I'm betting) are going to contain either Fetch reprints or (more likely) Filter reprints. Filter lands still need a reprint. They are getting pretty high up there and it's been longer than ZEN so it makes a little more sense that Filter lands would see print earlier that fetches." - posted 03/22/2014 proved incorrect about filters coming earlier than fetches, still pending on filters in Origins block.
"The set releases for fall 2015 (Blood, Sweat and Tears) and fall 2016 (Lock, Stock and Barrel). One or both of those 2 blocks (I'm betting) are going to contain either Fetch reprints or (more likely) Filter reprints. Filter lands still need a reprint. They are getting pretty high up there and it's been longer than ZEN so it makes a little more sense that Filter lands would see print earlier that fetches." - posted 03/22/2014 proved incorrect about filters coming earlier than fetches, still pending on filters in Origins block.