best commanders for a dark souls 3 themed deck

The constant annoyance of tricky game control or confusing gameplay mechanics is finally addressed by the Magic: The Gathering Commander 2019 Faceless Menace Deck. Having tested it thoroughly, I can tell you it’s ideal for building a dark, sinister vibe—perfect for a Dark Souls 3-themed deck. Its standout feature is the face-down creatures, which keep opponents guessing and add an element of mystery that mirrors Dark Souls’ doppelganger fights.

What really caught my eye during testing is how this deck’s legendary commanders (like the elusive Faceless Menace itself) offer versatility and strategic depth. The ability to build multiple decks around different face-down tactics makes it a flexible choice for a dark, foreboding style—mirroring Dark Souls’ themes of deception, resilience, and hidden threats. After comparing with other options, this deck’s unique ability to surprise enemies and control the battlefield makes it my top pick. It’s a true game-changer for a dark, intense theme. I highly recommend it for those wanting a rich, immersive experience that combines strategy with dark storytelling.

Top Recommendation: [Magic: The Gathering Commander 2019 Faceless Menace Deck](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07SJTXRTH?tag=wellingbeanbags-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)

Why We Recommend It: This deck’s key advantage is the face-down creatures mechanic, which perfectly captures the stealth and deception elements central to Dark Souls 3. Its three legendary commanders offer versatility for different strategies, and the inclusion of unique artwork and first-time printed cards enhances the immersive, dark aesthetic. Compared to bulkier or less thematic decks, the Faceless Menace deck excels in delivering strategic depth and atmospheric power, making it the best choice for building a dark Souls-inspired game experience.

What Characteristics Define a Great Commander for a Dark Souls 3 Themed EDH Deck?

A great commander for a Dark Souls 3 themed EDH deck should embody resilience, adaptability, and thematic synergy.

1. Key Characteristics of a Great Commander:
   – High toughness or resilience
   – Strong ability or action synergy
   – Thematic alignment with Dark Souls 3 lore
   – Versatile color identity and mana cost
   – Access to powerful spells or abilities
   – Unique mechanics that replicate Dark Souls elements

Building on these characteristics, each point can be explored further.

1. High Toughness or Resilience:
   A commander with high toughness or resilience showcases durability in gameplay. Such commanders can withstand heavy attacks, much like the player in Dark Souls who endures harsh battles. These commanders often have abilities to regenerate or protect themselves. For example, Teysa, Envoy of Ghosts has 4 toughness and can deter attackers by creating tokens when she deals damage, embodying the resilience found in the game.

2. Strong Ability or Action Synergy:
   A great commander should possess strong synergy with specific actions or abilities that enable powerful combos or effects. Samut, Voice of Dissent can tap creature power for additional damage or gains benefit from attacking. Like the combat skills and maneuvers in Dark Souls, actions in magic must connect effectively for success.

3. Thematic Alignment with Dark Souls 3 Lore:
   Commanders that align with the Dark Souls 3 narrative enrich the gameplay experience. Characters like Aurelia, the Warleader resonate with the themes of honor and valor prevalent in the game’s lore. Their backgrounds can serve as storytelling elements during gameplay, thus enhancing deck engagement.

4. Versatile Color Identity and Mana Cost:
   A commander’s color identity should allow for versatility in deck-building while maintaining thematic coherence. Commanders like Atraxa, Praetors’ Voice provide a blend of colors allowing for diverse strategies. Their abilities can be matched to create challenges reminiscent of Dark Souls’ multifaceted encounters.

5. Access to Powerful Spells or Abilities:
   Commanders with access to game-changing spells can shift the dynamics of play in an instant. For example, Mizzix of the Izmagnus can reduce spell costs for powerful effects, thereby mirroring the strategic use of items in Dark Souls that tilt battles in the player’s favor.

6. Unique Mechanics that Replicate Dark Souls Elements:
   Certain mechanics, like sacrificing creatures or recovering from defeat, reflect the themes of Dark Souls. Commanders that embody these mechanics, such as Karador, Ghost Chieftain, can recur fallen allies, much like the game’s bonfire system. This connection deepens the immersion into the Dark Souls universe.

Which Commanders Best Embody the Themes and Characters of Dark Souls 3?

The commanders that best embody the themes and characters of Dark Souls 3 are the following.

1. Artorias of the Abyss
2. Nameless King
3. Lorian, Elder Prince
4. Slave Knight Gael
5. Oceiros, the Consumed King

The aforementioned commanders represent critical elements of struggle, sacrifice, and resilience found within Dark Souls 3. Each one showcases different attributes that can resonate with diverse players.

1. Artorias of the Abyss:
   Artorias of the Abyss symbolizes resilience and the tragic hero archetype. He is known for his honorable fight against darkness yet ultimately succumbs to its temptation. In Dark Souls lore, Artorias serves as a poignant example of the consequences of battling overwhelming foes. His struggle encapsulates not just physical but emotional conflict. For instance, the battle against him is both challenging and melancholic. He is not simply an enemy; he represents the weight of lost hope and valor in the face of despair.

2. Nameless King:
   Nameless King amplifies themes of power and isolation. He is revered as the most formidable opponent in Dark Souls 3, symbolizing the heights of achievement but also the depths of solitude. The Nameless King’s dual battle—against the storm and the player—illustrates the dichotomy of nature and humanity. His lore suggests a fall from grace, as he once was a protector turned remorseless warrior, creating a compelling narrative that resonates with players who appreciate the concept of fallen glory.

3. Lorian, Elder Prince:
   Lorian, Elder Prince exemplifies the bond between siblings through his connection to Lothric. His battle manifests themes of sacrifice; Lorian fights with a deep sense of duty to his brother. This intrinsic connection represents the societal burden many feel towards familial loyalty. Players engage with his storyline, which raises questions about sacrifice and duty versus individual desires. Lorian’s unique dual form of combat signifies the lengths to which one will go for family while confronting their own limitations.

4. Slave Knight Gael:
   Slave Knight Gael embodies the relentless pursuit of purpose. His quest to restore the flame reflects themes of ambition and desperation. Gael’s character arc indicates a profound sense of loss and survival, making him relatable to players who experience continuous struggles for meaning. Additionally, his layered character reaffirms the notion that one’s past significantly influences their present journey. Through Gael, players explore the complex dynamic of redemption marred by hardship.

5. Oceiros, the Consumed King:
   Oceiros, the Consumed King addresses the theme of madness stemming from desperation to reclaim lost beauty. He embodies the conflict between seeking power and the resulting deterioration of self. Oceiros’ transformation sparks debates about ambition’s corruptive nature. His tragic story demonstrates how the quest for knowledge or beauty can lead to tragic outcomes, reflecting a cautionary tale about excess and obsession. Players may find the eloquent representation of inner turmoil compelling as it mirrors real human experiences.

Each of these commanders vividly illustrates the narratives, themes, and emotional depth found throughout Dark Souls 3. They enrich the lore while engaging players in introspective quests, filled with struggles that resonate beyond the game world.

How Does Thraximundar Reflect the Journey of a Dark Souls 3 Character?

Thraximundar reflects the journey of a Dark Souls 3 character through his design and lore. He embodies themes of struggle and sacrifice, mirroring the player’s fight against overwhelming odds in Dark Souls 3. Thraximundar, a fearsome commander, showcases power with his formidable abilities. In combat, he demonstrates resilience, a trait essential for survival in the dark and challenging environment of Dark Souls.

The character of Thraximundar represents the loss of innocence and the burden of leadership. This aligns with the journey in Dark Souls 3, where players confront their past and the consequences of their actions. Players experience loss, betrayal, and ultimately, the quest for redemption. Thraximundar’s ability to sacrifice others to become stronger symbolizes the harsh choices faced by Dark Souls characters. This reflects the necessity of hard decisions in a world filled with despair.

Moreover, both Thraximundar and Dark Souls 3 characters deal with the theme of inevitable death. Thraximundar gains power through the demise of his foes, similar to how players rise each time they are defeated. This cyclical nature of challenge and growth is a fundamental aspect of the Dark Souls experience.

In summary, Thraximundar serves as a powerful metaphor for the journey of a Dark Souls 3 character, illustrating themes of power, sacrifice, struggle, and the relentless quest for victory amid darkness.

In What Ways Does Bruna, Light of Alhammarret Represent the Lore of Dark Souls 3?

Bruna, Light of Alhammarret, represents several aspects of the lore of Dark Souls 3. She embodies themes of sacrifice, loss, and the consequences of power. Her character reflects the conflicts between light and dark, similar to the world of Dark Souls 3.

The lore often emphasizes the cyclical nature of life and death. Bruna’s existence highlights the struggle for redemption and the pursuit of truth. This aligns with the quests of many characters in Dark Souls 3 who seek to break free from a repetitive fate.

Bruna is also a symbol of enlightenment amid despair. In Dark Souls 3, characters often seek understanding in a world filled with chaos. This mirrors Bruna’s focus on gaining wisdom and clarity. Her role as a light caster connects to the game’s overarching theme of light battling the encroaching darkness.

Additionally, her association with Alhammarret denotes a longing for a greater purpose, which resonates with many characters in Dark Souls 3. They, too, pursue significant goals amidst personal suffering. In summary, Bruna embodies sacrifice, enlightenment, and the pursuit of purpose, interlinking her character with the deep, complex narratives depicted in Dark Souls 3.

How Are Commanders and Their Abilities Inspired by Dark Souls 3 Gameplay Mechanics?

Commanders and their abilities in various games can be inspired by the gameplay mechanics of Dark Souls 3. First, the notion of challenge and reward is central to Dark Souls 3. Players encounter difficult enemies and bosses that require strategy to defeat. This idea can translate into commanders who possess abilities that trigger powerful effects when overcoming challenges. For example, a commander might gain strength or unique abilities when defeating a certain number of enemies.

Next, the importance of resource management appears in Dark Souls 3. Players need to manage health, stamina, and other resources carefully. Commanders can mirror this with abilities that involve managing resources effectively, offering trade-offs for higher power or damage. A commander might have an ability that activates under specific resource conditions, reflecting the careful planning required in Dark Souls 3.

Furthermore, Dark Souls 3 features character builds centered around unique play styles, such as strength or magic. Commanders can embody these themes by emphasizing different strategies. A commander could focus on aggressive combat skills while another might capitalize on spells or support tactics. This variety encourages players to adopt different approaches similar to Dark Souls 3’s diverse character progression.

Lastly, environmental interaction plays a significant role in Dark Souls 3, with players leveraging terrain and obstacles in battles. Commanders can showcase this by having abilities that modify the battlefield or interact with other cards creatively. For instance, a commander might create barriers or hazards that change the dynamics of a confrontation.

In summary, commanders can draw inspiration from Dark Souls 3 by incorporating elements of challenge and reward, resource management, diverse character builds, and environmental interactions into their abilities. This approach creates a rich gameplay experience that resonates with fans of the Dark Souls series.

What Types of Support Cards Enhance the Flavor of a Dark Souls 3 EDH Deck?

Support cards that enhance the flavor of a Dark Souls 3 EDH deck typically include thematic options that reflect the game’s atmosphere, characters, and lore.

1. Dark Ritual
2. Stoneforge Mystic
3. Gravecrawler
4. Phyrexian Arena
5. Cauldron of Souls
6. Liliana of the Veil
7. Sword of Feast and Famine
8. Underworld Connections

Many players may have differing opinions on which cards best capture the essence of Dark Souls 3. Some players prioritize thematic connections while others emphasize game mechanics. This variance leads to diverse discussions among players about the card choices they prefer.

1. Dark Ritual:
   Dark Ritual generates three black mana for a single black mana investment. This card represents the game’s dark theme and its focus on sacrifice. Players can use it to cast powerful spells quickly, mirroring the urgency often felt in combat scenarios in Dark Souls 3.

2. Stoneforge Mystic:
   Stoneforge Mystic allows players to search for equipment and put it directly into play. The character embodies the idea of crafting and improving gear, which resonates well with the game’s emphasis on weapon upgrading. This card enhances player strategy, allowing weapon-oriented builds to thrive.

3. Gravecrawler:
   Gravecrawler is a zombie creature that can return from the graveyard if you control another zombie. It symbolizes the undead foes in Dark Souls 3, reflecting the struggles against death and resurrection in the game. This card promotes a theme of resilience and rebirth within the deck.

4. Phyrexian Arena:
   Phyrexian Arena provides continuous card draw at the cost of life. It mirrors the grim atmosphere of Dark Souls, reflecting the perpetual darkness and sacrifices players endure while progressing through the game. It allows players to maintain a strong hand while representing the risk of health loss.

5. Cauldron of Souls:
   Cauldron of Souls gives creatures undying, a mechanic that fits the game’s theme of death and rebirth. It allows creatures to come back to life, embodying the resurrection component deeply embedded in Dark Souls 3 lore.

6. Liliana of the Veil:
   Liliana of the Veil combines control with themes of sacrifice and the undead. Her abilities allow manipulation of opponents’ hands and graveyards, creating a dark atmosphere reminiscent of the game’s powerful sorceresses. This card promotes a strategic play style and beautifully enhances the deck’s flavor.

7. Sword of Feast and Famine:
   Sword of Feast and Famine grants protection and land untapping capabilities. It complements the idea of powerful equipment within the game. The sword’s name and its abilities resonate with the notion of adventure and wielding might against powerful foes.

8. Underworld Connections:
   Underworld Connections allows players to draw additional cards but at the cost of life. Its mechanics and theme of delving into dark influences echo the choices players make in Dark Souls 3, where each decision can lead to either triumph or downfall.

Each of these cards brings unique elements that resonate with themes, strategies, and flavors present in the Dark Souls 3 universe, making them excellent choices for enhancing an EDH deck centered around this iconic game.

How Can You Optimize Your Dark Souls 3 EDH Deck for Strategic Play?

To optimize your Dark Souls 3 EDH deck for strategic play, focus on choosing the right commander, selecting synergy-driven cards, establishing a strong mana base, and balancing creature and spell counts.

Choosing the right commander: A suited commander enhances your deck’s overall theme and synergy. For example, consider a character like Manus, the Furtive Pygmy, who embodies darkness and manipulation, effectively using cards that generate card advantage or control opponents.

Selecting synergy-driven cards: Ensure your deck features cards that complement your commander’s abilities. Include cards that reflect the themes from Dark Souls 3, such as powerful creatures and spells that interact with life gain or sacrifices. For instance, using creatures like the Hollow Knight increases synergy with life-draining spells.

Establishing a strong mana base: A solid mana base supports your deck’s strategy. Use dual lands, fetch lands, and mana rocks to ensure consistent access to your required colors. For example, consider cards like Commander’s Sphere or Chromatic Lantern for flexible mana production.

Balancing creature and spell counts: Strike a balance between creatures and spells to maintain an effective game plan. An ideal ratio is around 30-40% creatures and 60-70% spells. This balance allows for sufficient board presence while also enabling strategic plays and responses to opponents.

Incorporating removal and counterspells: Include removal spells and counterspells to manage opponents’ threats. Cards like Swords to Plowshares and Counterspell are effective choices to control the board and disrupt opponents’ strategies.

Utilizing mechanics from Dark Souls 3: Integrate mechanics that mirror the game’s themes, such as death, rebirth, and resource management. Consider cards like Reclamation Sage, which can destroy artifacts and enchantments, similar to how players defeat enemies in the game.

Playtesting your deck: Regularly playtest your deck to identify weaknesses and adjust accordingly. Monitor win rates and card interactions to enhance overall performance.

By focusing on these strategies, you can refine your Dark Souls 3 EDH deck for a more effective and engaging gameplay experience.

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