This deck archetype in the Commander format of Magic: The Gathering is characterized by its strategy of shifting responsibility for threats or undesirable game states onto other players. It achieves this through the use of cards that force opponents to make difficult choices, manipulate targeting, or otherwise divert negative attention away from the deck’s pilot. A typical example might involve using an enchantment that forces players to attack the player with the most life, thereby incentivizing aggression towards opponents other than oneself.
The significance of this strategy lies in its ability to navigate the inherently political landscape of multiplayer Commander games. By carefully manipulating the perceived threat level and influencing opponent interactions, this deck type can survive longer and establish a stronger board presence. Historically, the effectiveness of this strategy has waxed and waned depending on the prevalence of particular card combinations and the overall metagame composition. Its benefits stem from creating advantageous scenarios by diverting resources and mitigating potential attacks, granting more time to set up a winning endgame.
