Exploring the DC Legionnaires in Magic: The Gathering
In the ever-evolving world of Magic: The Gathering, few mechanics have captured the imaginations of players quite like the Legionnaires from the Dominaria United set. For those unfamiliar, DC Legionnaires refer to a specific subset of creatures within this set, characterized by their unique abilities and synergies. These cards have quickly become fan favorites, offering both casual and competitive players a wealth of strategies to explore.
The Origins of DC Legionnaires
The term DC Legionnaires is derived from the phrase “Defensive Creatures,” or “Defensive Cards,” which are designed to protect players from early aggression while setting up for late-game dominance. These creatures are not just defensive in nature but also come equipped with powerful abilities that allow them to grow stronger over time. The Legionnaire mechanic, introduced in Dominaria United, emphasizes teamwork and synergy, rewarding players for controlling multiple creatures on the battlefield.
One of the standout features of DC Legionnaires is their ability to scale with the game’s progression. For example, cards like Veteran Adventurer and Veteran Soldier start as modest defenders but grow into formidable threats as the game progresses. This makes them versatile inclusions in both aggressive and control-oriented decks.
Key Cards in the DC Legionnaires Arsenal
When building a deck around DC Legionnaires, there are a few key cards that stand out as must-includes:
Veteran Adventurer: This creature is a prime example of the Legionnaire mechanic. It begins as a 2/2 defender but gains +1/+1 for each other creature you control, making it a formidable force in the mid-to-late game.
Veteran Soldier: Similar to the Adventurer, the Soldier starts as a 1/1 but scales rapidly as you deploy more creatures. Its ability to tap for mana also provides valuable utility.
General Kadraris: As a legendary creature, General Kadraris serves as the perfect commander for a Legionnaire-themed deck. Her ability to create token creatures ensures that your board presence grows consistently.
These cards work synergistically to create a powerful engine that can overwhelm opponents in the late game.
Strategies for Success
Building a competitive deck around DC Legionnaires requires careful planning. Here are a few strategies to keep in mind:
Token Generation: Cards like General Kadraris and Recruiter of the Guard can generate an army of tokens, which not only fuel your Legionnaires but also provide a wide board presence.
Ramp and Fixing: Since many Legionnaire cards are low-to-the-ground, incorporating ramp spells like Llanowar Elves or Fyndhorn Elves can help you accelerate into your heavier hitters.
Protection Spells: With so many creatures on the battlefield, protecting your board from sweepers like Damnation or Cleansing Nova is crucial. Consider including cards like Heroic Intervention or Selfless Savior to safeguard your investments.
The Impact of DC Legionnaires
The introduction of DC Legionnaires has shaken up the metagame in both Standard and Commander formats. In Standard, these cards have enabled the rise of a new breed of midrange decks that combine defensive capabilities with explosive growth. In Commander, they’ve found a natural home in decks led by General Kadraris, offering a fun and interactive way to build an army.
The beauty of DC Legionnaires lies in their accessibility. Whether you’re a casual player looking to build a fun deck or a competitive grinder aiming to climb the ranks, these cards offer a rewarding playstyle that’s both intuitive and deep.
Case Study: A Competitive DC Legionnaires Deck
Let’s take a look at how a competitive deck might be built around these cards:
Creatures:
Veteran Adventurer (4x)
Veteran Soldier (4x)
General Kadraris (2x)
Recruiter of the Guard (3x)
Ramp:
Llanowar Elves (4x)
Fyndhorn Elves (4x)
Protection:
Heroic Intervention (2x)
Selfless Savior (2x)
Lands:
A mix of forests, plains, and dual lands to ensure smooth mana development.
This deck leverages