How Does Devoid Work In Commander

How Does Devoid Work in Commander? A Comprehensive Guide

The Commander format, known for its chaotic and powerful gameplay, introduces unique mechanics that can significantly impact strategy. One such mechanic is Devoid, a keyword ability that can dramatically shift the battlefield in your favor. This article will delve into the intricacies of Devoid, explaining its function, strategic implications, and how to effectively utilize it in your Commander deck.

What is Devoid?

Devoid is a keyword ability found primarily on colorless cards within the Battle for Zendikar and Shadows over Innistrad sets. It essentially renders a permanent colorless and without any colors. This means a Devoid creature, for example, cannot be targeted by spells or abilities that specifically target creatures of a particular color. This can be a significant advantage in a format like Commander, where multicolored strategies and targeted removal are commonplace. Understanding how Devoid interacts with other game mechanics is key to maximizing its potential.

Understanding the Implications of Devoid

The core functionality of Devoid offers several key advantages:

• Immune to Color-Based Removal: This is perhaps the most significant advantage. Spells and abilities that target creatures or artifacts based on their color, like Path to Exile or Swords to Plowshares, are completely ineffective against Devoid permanents. This significantly increases the survivability of your Devoid creatures and artifacts.

• Colorless Synergy: Devoid cards often synergize well with other colorless strategies, such as those built around colorless mana production, colorless artifacts, and colorless commanders. This allows you to build a deck that focuses on raw power and efficiency, regardless of color identity.

• Unexpected Strategic Depth: The lack of color identity can lead to surprising strategic opportunities. Opponents might overlook the threat posed by a seemingly innocuous Devoid creature, leading to unexpected game-changing plays.

Building a Devoid Commander Deck

Building a successful Devoid Commander deck requires a strategic approach:

• Mana Base: A solid mana base is crucial. Focus on colorless mana sources like Sol Ring, Arcane Signet, and other mana rocks. Lands that produce colorless mana, such as colorless fetch lands, are also vital.

• Commander Selection: Choosing the right commander is essential. Look for commanders that complement the colorless nature of Devoid cards, perhaps commanders with abilities that care about colorless mana or artifact synergies.

• Creature Selection: Incorporate a strong selection of Devoid creatures with high power and toughness to serve as efficient attackers and blockers.

• Removal and Interaction: Include effective removal and interaction that isn't limited by color restrictions. Consider board wipes that affect all permanents regardless of color, and counterspells.

• Synergistic Cards: Look for cards that synergize with your Devoid permanents, such as cards that benefit from colorless mana, or cards that care about artifact or creature count on the battlefield.

Common Misconceptions about Devoid

It's important to address some common misconceptions about Devoid:

• Devoid doesn't change the mana cost. The mana cost of a Devoid card remains the same; Devoid only affects the card's color identity.

• Devoid doesn't prevent all removal. While Devoid protects against color-based removal, it won't protect against removal that targets permanents based on other characteristics, such as name, type, or power/toughness.

Conclusion

Devoid presents a powerful and unique strategic element in Commander. By understanding its mechanics, building a cohesive deck, and leveraging its strengths, you can create a formidable and surprisingly resilient deck capable of surprising and outmaneuvering your opponents. Mastering Devoid will significantly enhance your Commander game and allow you to explore new and exciting deckbuilding possibilities.