The Command Zone - podcast cover

The Command Zone

Your weekly source for all things Commander (aka EDH), a multiplayer Magic: The Gathering format, with hosts Jimmy Wong and Josh Lee Kwai. Focused on all aspects of gameplay and strategy from table politics, budget builds, to deck building and more! commandzonecast@gmail.com We wanna make the podcast even better, help us learn how we can: https://bit.ly/2EcYbu4  For advertising opportunities please email PodcastPartnerships@Studio71us.com    Privacy Policy: https://www.studio71.com/us/terms-and-conditions-use/#Privacy%20Policy
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Episodes

The BLING Episode | #255

On today’s episode, DJ and Jimmy are highlighting their favorite ways to bling out their Commander decks, covering the many different things you can do to personalize your collection and show off your own unique style on the battlefield. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feb 14, 20191 hr 40 minEp. 255

Cards You Should Be Playing (But Aren’t) | #254

On today’s episode, we’re talking about a bunch of cards you should be playing, but probably aren’t. We'll help you find some cool new tech that fits into a ton of your existing decks. And the best news is: most of it these cards are super cheap! ---------- What we talked about on THE END STEP: Fitness: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Physical_fitness Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices...

Feb 06, 20191 hr 16 minEp. 254

To The Rules Committee | #253

Exciting news! Josh has been selected to the new Commander Advisory Group (CAG). This is a panel of people whose role is to provide official feedback on topics suggested by the Commander Rules Committee and raise issues that they believe need attention within the EDH format. As a result, on today’s episode we thought it would be a good idea to discuss the most prominent and current hot-button Commander issues. That way we can find out what JLK’s stance is on each of them, what actions (if any) h...

Jan 30, 20191 hr 17 minEp. 253

Lavinia – Game Knights Deck Tech | #252

We’re continuing our deck techs in advance of the upcoming episode of Game Knights (which will be released on January 25th) by breaking down Jimmy’s Lavinia, Azorius Renegade build. This card got a lot of attention from the community when it was spoiled, with some even predicting a banning. Find out just how mean Jimmy decided to be! ---------- Jimmy’s Lavinia Deck List: http://tappedout.net/mtg-decks/jimmys-lavinia-game-knights-23/?cb=1548180063 ---------- What we talked about on THE END STEP: ...

Jan 22, 201959 minEp. 252

Judith – Game Knights Deck Tech | #251

We’re doing something a little different. We’re going to deck tech the Judith deck that JLK built for an upcoming episode of Game Knights (to be released on January 25th). This means you’ll get an idea of how the deck was built and what it’s trying to do before watching the episode. Judith may not look like much but there are a lot of cool interactions and synergies that aren’t apparent at first glance. Come find out how to make the most out of the Scourge Diva. ---------- Josh’s Judith Decklist...

Jan 15, 201955 minEp. 251

Ravnica Allegiance Set Review | #250

Jimmy and Josh discuss the new cards from Ravnica Allegiance and which ones they think will make a splash in Commander. From the new legendary creatures and planeswalkers to a potential white staple card, this set has a lot going on. Is there something awesome to spicy up one (or more) of your decks? Listen and find out! ---------- What we talked about on THE END STEP: Bird Box: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2737304/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices...

Jan 11, 20191 hr 40 minEp. 250

How NOT to Evaluate Cards + Ravnica Allegiance Preview Card | #249

This week, we’re taking a look at some of our old episodes and wondering how we could be so wrong at about certain cards. And then we discuss how those missteps can help us learn to have better analysis in the future. Plus, we're revealing our exclusive Ravnica Allegiance preview card. It's a mythic legendary that seems crazy powerful. Check it out and let us know what you think! ---------- What we talked about on THE END STEP: Hades: https://www.epicgames.com/store/en-US/product/hades/home Lear...

Jan 03, 20191 hr 8 minEp. 249

What Magic Did Wrong (and Right!) This Year | #248

It’s been a rocky, controversial, crazy year for Magic, with many ups and downs. On this, the last episode of 2018, Jimmy and Josh are looking back at the past 12 months and examining what Magic did wrong (and right!) and then taking a brief look at what the future looks like for our favorite game. ---------- What we talked about on THE END STEP: Mortal Engines: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1571234/ Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt4633694/?ref_=nv_sr_1 Aquaman: ht...

Dec 27, 20181 hr 43 minEp. 248

Problems With Your Playgroup | #247

There are many issues which can crop up in a tight-nit group (like a playgroup) which, if not addressed, can cause fissures and strain and, ultimately, lead to some negative experiences. On this episode, Jimmy and Josh discuss lessons they’ve learned regarding how to cultivate a healthy group dynamic. ---------- What we talked about on THE END STEP: Keyforge (by Richard Garfield): https://www.fantasyflightgames.com/en/products/keyforge/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/...

Dec 18, 20181 hr 2 minEp. 247

DJ’s Final Episode - Jumbo Politics | #246

It's DJ's last episode as an official co-host of the show. But don’t worry, we’re sending him off in style with a hand-picked topic of his choosing: TABLE POLITICS! We get the Jumbo version on how to deal with the social interactions at the table and then wrap things up with listener questions just for him. Come say good-bye and thank DJ for doing such an awesome job! ---------- What we talked about on THE END STEP: The Great British Baking Show: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Great_British_B...

Dec 14, 20181 hr 15 minEp. 246

Most Hated Commanders | #245

We’ve all experienced it. Everyone is shuffling up and placing their Commanders in the command zone to start the game. And then the groans start. “Oh no! Not that deck…” Today, we’re talking about our MOST HATED COMMANDERS. Those legendary creatures we just do not like to see across the table. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 04, 201857 minEp. 245

Most Overrated Cards | #244

DJ brings his own new perspective to an old debate: What are the most overrated cards in Commander? Buckle up, because Josh does not necessarily agree with all of DJ’s list. Which cards cause the most contention? Tune in and find out! ---------- What we talked about on THE END STEP: Skyward by Brandon Sanderson: https://brandonsanderson.com/books/skyward/skyward/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices...

Nov 27, 20181 hr 26 minEp. 244

Ultimate Masters Discussion + Preview Card | #243

The announcement of Ultimate Masters has been a contentious subject in the community. Josh and DJ give their perspectives on the controversy surrounding the new set PLUS, we reveal The Command Zone’s exclusive UMA preview card! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 20, 20181 hr 7 minEp. 243

Things Commander Players Need To STOP Doing | #242

This episode is a PSA to all Commander players. If you’re doing something on this list – you need to STOP. It might be costing you games, it might be costing you fun, it might be costing you friends. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 13, 201853 minEp. 245

Are There Cards You Shouldn’t Play? | #241

Many cards and effects are contentious in EDH. Armageddon, Stasis, Iona, Scrambleverse…the list is long and varies depending on your playgroup. On this episode we’re discussing a recent article by Commander Rules Committee member Sheldon Menery and asking the question: Are there cards you shouldn’t play? ---------- Sheldon’s Article: http://www.starcitygames.com/articles/37865_Commander-Cards-You-Shouldnt-Play.html Elder Dragon Statesman (Sheldon’s Podcast): https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/elde...

Nov 08, 20181 hr 20 minEp. 241

Braids Deck Tech l DJ’s Favorite Deck! #240

On this episode we’re breaking down DJ’s favorite deck: Braids, Conjurer Adept. It’s a goofy deck that packs a huge punch. If you like politics, bluffing, making deals and playing BIG creatures, you won’t want to miss this episode. ---------- Support the show and become a Patron! Be a part of our community, receive awesome rewards, and more! http://www.patreon.com/commandzone The Command Zone podcast is brought to you by Card Kingdom! Make sure to use our affiliate link the next time you purchas...

Oct 30, 20181 hr 15 minEp. 243

Which Color is the Strongest? Gameplay STATS (pt2) | #239

It’s time for part 2 of our STATS SERIES! We’re going over the results of our data analysis from over 300 games of Commander. What effect does budget and the monetary value of your deck have on your win percentage? Which color is the strongest? What cards appear most in winning decks? Tune in and find out! ---------- What we talked about on THE END STEP: Immersion Circulator: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thermal_immersion_circulator ---------- Our full gameplay data set (hosted by data analyst ...

Oct 24, 20181 hr 25 minEp. 239

Exactly How Good is Sol Ring? Gameplay STATS (pt1) | #238

It’s finally here! The STATS episode (part 1 of 2). We’ve compiled data from over 300 games of Commander, analyzed the findings and now it’s time to go over the results. What do the statistics say about the power of Sol Ring? What role, if any, does turn order play in determining a game winner? What deck types have an advantage over the others? Some of the findings are going to shock you! Do not miss this episode. ---------- What we talked about on THE END STEP: Hardcore Game of Thrones: http://...

Oct 17, 20181 hr 24 minEp. 238

Top Budget Blue Cards | #237

We’re starting a new subseries discussing the top budget cards in each color. On today’s episode DJ and Josh list their top 5 best blue cards that are each under $2 dollars. Tune in and discover a bunch of ways to make your decks better for cheap! ---------- What we talked about on THE END STEP: Hardcore History Addendum: Nightmare of Indianapolis https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jqu7mM0kheE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices...

Oct 09, 201855 minEp. 237

Emmara Deck Tech | #236

Today we’re breaking down JLK’s Emarra, Soul of the Accord deck that he built and played in the most recent episode of Game Knights. If you liked the look of the deck on the show, just wait until you see all the other spicy cards that didn’t happen to get camera time. If you like tapping and untapping shenanigans, this one is for you! ---------- What we talked about on THE END STEP: World of Warcraft (yes, again): https://us.shop.battle.net/en-us/family/world-of-warcraft ---------- JLK’s Emarra ...

Oct 02, 20181 hr 1 minEp. 236

Izoni Deck Tech w/ Adam Savidan of LRR | #235

Do you like to make tokens and play with your own graveyard? Who doesn’t?!? Adam Savidan from LoadingReadyRun joins the show to talk about the Izoni, Thousand-Eyed deck he built and piloted on the new episode of Game Knights. That show, featuring the all-new commanders from Guilds of Ravnica, releases tomorrow (Sept 26). But you can get the inside-scoop on Adam’s deck before you watch it, and then predict if he’s going to win. ---------- Adam’s Izoni Deck List: http://tappedout.net/mtg-decks/ada...

Sep 25, 20181 hr 14 minEp. 235

Guilds of Ravnica Set Review | #234

We’re returning to the return to Ravnica! Josh and DJ break down the new cards from the latest set, Guilds of Ravnica, and which ones they believe will make an impact on the Commander format. Whether you’re Izzet, Golgari, Selesnya, Boros or Dimir, there’s something here for everyone. ---------- What we talked about on THE END STEP: The West Wing Weekly: http://thewestwingweekly.com/ The West Wing: https://www.netflix.com/title/70157152 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/...

Sep 20, 20182 hr 5 minEp. 234

Guilds of Ravnica Preview Card – Etrata, the Silencer | #233

On this special episode we’re unveiling our exclusive GUILDS OF RAVNICA PREVIEW CARD! It’s a new legendary creature named Etrata, the Silencer. To talk about this super unique card, we’re joined by MTG cosplayer Olivia Gobert-Hicks, who built a Commander deck around Etrata for upcoming episode of Game Knights, which releases on September 26th. ---------- Follow Olivia on Twitter: @goberthicks Inquire about her awesome metal cards: @metalcardboard ---------- What we talked about on THE END STEP: ...

Sep 17, 201834 minEp. 233

Jimmy’s Surprise Visit l Commander Q & A | #232

Jimmy’s taking a quick break from filming in New Zealand and stopped by the studio in LA for a special episode. We’re catching up on listener questions, including: What to do if your playgroup likes the old mulligan rules? How do you deal with an overabundance of board wipes in your local meta? And what are some budget substitutes for a few expensive cards? ---------- What we talked about on THE END STEP: PAX: http://www.paxsite.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adc...

Sep 12, 201855 minEp. 232

Selvala, Heart of the Wilds Deck Tech | #231

On this episode, DJ is breaking down one of his strongest decks: Selvala, Heart of the Wilds. The creature “power matters” archetype has become more prevalent in recent sets so it seems like the perfect time to explore this potent Commander. ---------- What we talked about on THE END STEP: Educated: A Memoir https://tarawestover.com/book/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices...

Sep 04, 201857 minEp. 231

Commander Format Wish List | #230

In this episode, Josh and DJ are putting on their game design hats and asking the questions: What does the Commander format need? What is it missing? What tools are we lacking? What current cards and strategies are too powerful or well-positioned and could use some additional checks and balances? In short, what is our wish list for the format? ---------- What we talked about on THE END STEP: Rome: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rome Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adcho...

Aug 30, 20181 hr 17 minEp. 230

Is C18 a Failure? | #229

Lack of reprints. Unfocused deck design. Low power level. These are some of the criticisms that have been aimed at Commander 2018. On this episode of the podcast, Josh and DJ take an in-depth look at this year’s precon decks and break down whether they think C18 is a success or failure. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 23, 20181 hr 13 minEp. 229

Varina, Lich Queen – C18 Deck Tech | #228

Jimmy is back! And he’s breaking down an Esper Zombie build focused around Varina, Lich Queen. How does having access to white change/update this strategy for this popular tribe? Watch and find out! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 16, 20181 hr 6 minEp. 228

Xantcha, Sleeper Agent – C18 Deck Tech | #227

On today’s episode, Josh and DJ brew up a deck for one of the most unique new Commanders from all of C18: Xantcha, Sleeper Agent. Find out all of the cool interactions, synergies and combos that will allow you to infiltrate your way to victory. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 14, 20181 hr 4 minEp. 227

Brewing Brudiclad – C18 Deck Tech | #226

We're kicking off a series of deck techs centered around the new legendary creatures from Commander 2018. Today we begin with one of the most interesting: Brudiclad (BREWdiclad?) Telchor Engineer. It’s a new take on your typical token based strategy. Come see how Josh and DJ would tackle this deck building challenge! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 10, 20181 hrEp. 226
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