So, you're here because you want to dive into the world of 2016 Commander decklists, right? Let's face it, Commander is more than just a format—it's a lifestyle. Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, 2016 brought some epic changes to the game that are still worth exploring. This is where the magic happens, literally! If you're looking to build a killer Commander deck, you've come to the right place. We'll break it all down step by step, so you can craft a deck that'll leave your opponents in awe.
Back in 2016, Magic: The Gathering was buzzing with new cards, strategies, and legendary creatures that redefined how we play Commander. It wasn't just about slapping together 100 cards; it was about creating a cohesive strategy that would make every game feel fresh and exciting. If you're serious about building a competitive Commander deck, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
But wait, why focus on 2016? Well, that year was a game-changer. New sets like "Eldritch Moon" and "Kaladesh" dropped, bringing with them some of the most iconic cards in Commander history. These cards are still relevant today, and they can be the backbone of your deck. So, if you're ready to take your Commander game to the next level, let's get started!
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Why 2016 Commander Decklists Still Matter Today
Let's be real, Commander has evolved a lot over the years, but the decks from 2016 still hold a special place in the hearts of many players. Why? Because they were built during a time when the format was growing rapidly, and players were experimenting with new ideas. The 2016 Commander decklists weren't just about winning; they were about creativity and fun.
In 2016, we saw the release of some truly legendary cards that are still staples in today's decks. Cards like Ugin, the Spirit Dragon and Ob Nixilis, the Fallen were game-changers. These cards weren't just powerful; they were versatile and could fit into a variety of strategies. If you're looking to build a deck that stands the test of time, 2016 is a great place to start.
Key Cards from 2016 That Still Dominate
Here are some of the key cards from 2016 that are still worth considering for your Commander deck:
- Ugin, the Spirit Dragon: A colorless legend that can reset the board and give you a massive advantage.
- Ob Nixilis, the Fallen: A black commander that excels at milling and control strategies.
- Scion of the Ur-Dragon: A ramp and protection tool that can turn any deck into a dragon-themed powerhouse.
- Emrakul, the Promised End: A colorless Eldrazi titan that can close out games quickly.
These cards are just the tip of the iceberg. The 2016 Commander decks were packed with gems that are still relevant today. Whether you're into big creatures, control, or combo strategies, there's something for everyone in the 2016 card pool.
Building a 2016 Commander Deck: Step by Step
Now that we've covered why 2016 Commander decklists are still worth exploring, let's dive into how you can build your own. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you create a deck that'll impress your friends and enemies alike.
Step 1: Choose Your Commander
Your commander is the heart and soul of your deck. It sets the tone for your entire strategy, so choose wisely. In 2016, there were plenty of legendary creatures to choose from, each with its own unique abilities. Here are a few popular choices:
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- Scythe Leopard: A green commander that excels at ramp and aggression.
- Dragonlord Atarka: A red-green commander that focuses on powerful creature synergies.
- Elspeth, Sun's Champion: A white commander that specializes in protection and board control.
Remember, your commander should align with your playstyle. If you love big creatures, go for a creature-focused commander. If you prefer control, choose a commander that excels at card advantage and disruption.
Step 2: Build Around Your Commander
Once you've chosen your commander, it's time to build a deck that supports its strengths. This means selecting cards that complement your commander's abilities and synergize with your overall strategy. For example, if you're running Scythe Leopard, you'll want to include cards that help you ramp into powerful spells and creatures.
Here are some tips for building around your commander:
- Focus on cards that enhance your commander's abilities.
- Include mana ramp and acceleration to ensure you can cast your commander early.
- Choose cards that provide redundancy and consistency in your strategy.
Remember, Commander is a singleton format, so you'll need to carefully curate your deck to ensure it's balanced and effective.
Deckbuilding Tips and Tricks
Building a Commander deck isn't just about throwing together 100 cards. It's about creating a cohesive strategy that can adapt to different situations. Here are some tips and tricks to help you build a better Commander deck:
Tip 1: Focus on Themes
One of the best ways to build a strong Commander deck is to focus on a specific theme. Whether it's tribal synergies, graveyard recursion, or artifact synergy, a well-defined theme can make your deck more consistent and powerful. For example, if you're running a dragon-themed deck, you'll want to include cards like Scion of the Ur-Dragon and Dragonlord Dromoka to maximize your theme.
Tip 2: Include Utility Cards
Every Commander deck should have a mix of utility cards that can handle a variety of situations. These cards might include removal spells, counterspells, and card draw effects. Some popular utility cards from 2016 include:
- Path to Exile: A versatile removal spell that can deal with most creatures.
- Counterspell: A classic blue spell that can stop your opponent's most threatening plays.
- Ponder: A card draw spell that helps you find key pieces of your strategy.
Utility cards ensure that your deck can handle whatever your opponents throw at you.
2016 Commander Meta: What Was Hot and What Was Not
In 2016, the Commander meta was shaped by the release of new sets and the introduction of powerful cards. Some strategies were dominant, while others struggled to keep up. Here's a look at what was hot and what was not in the 2016 Commander meta:
Hot Strategies
- Big Mana Decks: With the release of sets like "Kaladesh," big mana strategies became incredibly popular. Cards like Exploration and Expedition Map made ramping into powerful spells easier than ever.
- Combo Decks: Combo decks were also on the rise, thanks to cards like Scion of the Ur-Dragon and Convergence. These decks could win the game in a single turn with the right setup.
Not-So-Hot Strategies
- Aggro Decks: Aggro decks struggled in 2016, as the format became more focused on long-term strategies and card advantage.
- Control Decks: While control decks were still viable, they often struggled to keep up with the pace of big mana and combo decks.
Understanding the 2016 meta can help you make informed decisions when building your own Commander deck. By learning from the past, you can create a deck that's both powerful and fun to play.
Decklist Examples: Putting It All Together
Now that we've covered the basics of building a 2016 Commander deck, let's look at a few examples to inspire your own creations. Here are three sample decklists to get you started:
Deck 1: Scythe Leopard Ramp Deck
This deck focuses on ramping into powerful creatures and spells, making it perfect for players who love big plays.
Commander: Scythe Leopard
- Exploration
- Expedition Map
- Primeval Titan
- Scion of the Ur-Dragon
Deck 2: Ob Nixilis Control Deck
This deck uses card advantage and control to dominate the game, making it ideal for players who enjoy outlasting their opponents.
Commander: Ob Nixilis, the Fallen
- Counterspell
- Path to Exile
- Think Twice
- Convergence
Deck 3: Ugin Combo Deck
This deck relies on powerful combos to close out games quickly, making it a favorite among players who love explosive plays.
Commander: Ugin, the Spirit Dragon
- Scion of the Ur-Dragon
- Convergence
- Expedition Map
- Exploration
These decklists are just a starting point. Feel free to modify them to suit your playstyle and preferences.
Final Thoughts: Level Up Your Commander Game
Building a 2016 Commander deck is all about creativity, strategy, and fun. Whether you're a fan of big creatures, control, or combo strategies, there's something for everyone in the world of Commander. By understanding the key cards and strategies from 2016, you can create a deck that's both powerful and enjoyable to play.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your cards, fire up your deckbuilding software, and start crafting the Commander deck of your dreams. And don't forget to share your creations with the community. The more we share, the more we grow as players and as a community.
Call to Action: Leave a comment below and let us know what kind of Commander deck you're building. Are you a fan of 2016 cards, or do you prefer newer releases? Whatever your preference, we'd love to hear from you!
Table of Contents
- Why 2016 Commander Decklists Still Matter Today
- Key Cards from 2016 That Still Dominate
- Building a 2016 Commander Deck: Step by Step
- Step 1: Choose Your Commander
- Step 2: Build Around Your Commander
- Deckbuilding Tips and Tricks
- Tip 1: Focus on Themes
- Tip 2: Include Utility Cards
- 2016 Commander Meta: What Was Hot and What Was Not
- Decklist Examples: Putting It All Together


