Whirler Rogue is a 2/2 creature that enters the battlefield creating two 1/1 Thopter tokens. This can quickly generate a swarm of small flyers to pressure opponents or serve as a token generator for larger creatures like Sage of Epityr. Whirler Rogue's ability to tap artifacts also allows it to provide protection and support for other creatures, making it an attractive addition to artifact-based decks in formats like Commander. Its uncommon rarity and moderate mana cost make it accessible for many players.

Whirler Rogue

When Whirler Rogue enters the battlefield, it creates two 1/1 colorless Thopter artifact creature tokens with flying. This ability is a triggered ability that triggers when the creature enters the battlefield.

The created tokens will have the same power and toughness as the original creature (2/2) unless otherwise specified by other effects on the stack. For example, if Serra's Pulse resolves before Whirler Rogue's ability does, it could give each of these tokens +1/+1 and flying.

Tap two untapped artifacts you control: Target creature can't be blocked this turn. This is a triggered ability that triggers when two untapped artifacts are tapped during the beginning phase. Note that artifacts are tapped, not played, so it's not the same as playing an artifact with mana cost {T}.

Whirler Rogue has flying itself and is a 2/2 creature. As with any creature, its power and toughness will be modified if other effects (e.g., Blasted Treefolk's -1/-1) modify them in some way.

Commander-specific quirks:

In Commander format, this card can create multiple token swarms quickly due to its relatively low mana cost of {2}{U}{U} and the sheer number of artifacts required to tap two. This could be an excellent addition to a deck centered around artifact creatures or tokens like Clockwork Golem.

However, keep in mind that tapping multiple artifacts in one turn may not always be practical due to its timing requirements (beginning phase) and the need for untapped artifacts.

Whirler Rogue is a versatile artifact creature that can be leveraged in various Commander archetypes. Its ability to create tokens and untap artifacts for value makes it an attractive addition to token-heavy decks.

In tokens strategies, Whirler Rogue's power lies in its ability to generate early game pressure with two 1/1 Thopter tokens on entry. This synergizes well with cards like Sage of Epityr or Thalia, Guardian, which accelerate artifact development and allow for more aggressive starts. In a deck featuring these elements, Whirler Rogue becomes a formidable early-game attacker.

The card also excels in enchantment-heavy Commander decks that focus on artifact interaction. When combined with cards like Ajani's Pridemate or Liliana of the Veil, which offer additional ways to untap artifacts, Whirler Rogue's ability to target creatures and prevent blocking becomes highly impactful.

In a more controlling build centered around card advantage and counterspells, Whirler Rogue can help create an early-game tempo push while also enabling later game manipulation with its tokens. Cards like Trostani's Summoner or Consecrated Sphinx, which generate token swarms, work well alongside Whirler Rogue in this strategy.

In a more aggressive artifact-focused deck, Whirler Rogue's ability to tap artifacts and gain an advantage on the battlefield is amplified by cards like Bant Panharmoniac. This combination creates a significant impact, allowing players to accelerate their board presence while denying opponents defensive options.

Overall, Whirler Rogue fits into various token-heavy Commander archetypes due to its unique ability to generate early-game tokens and untap artifacts for value. Its versatility makes it an attractive addition to decks that emphasize artifact synergy or aggressive starts.

Whirler Rogue is a versatile creature that offers multiple avenues for interaction and synergy. One notable application is pairing it with Fork or Copy Enchantment, which allows for the creation of additional tokens beyond its initial ability.

In terms of token generation, Whirler Rogue's 2/2 body provides a suitable base for token manipulation cards like Eidolon of Ransom. The artifact creature tokens created by Whirler Rogue can also be used to trigger effects such as Gravitational Shift, which destroys an artifact, and allows you to create two 1/1 colorless Thopter artifact creature tokens with flying.

Tap abilities are another aspect of Whirler Rogue's design. When combined with cards like Arcane Signet or [Spectral Procession, it enables the player to target a creature for unblockability, even if the targeted creature is not under your control. This can lead to interesting scenarios where you're able to affect an opponent's board presence indirectly.

Synergies involving artifact-activated abilities also come into play with Whirler Rogue. Cards like [Luminous Bonds allow you to untap artifacts and activate their abilities more efficiently, creating a powerful loop when combined with Whirler Rogue's tap ability.

Whirler Rogue Mistakes

Players often misjudge timing when using Whirler Rogue's ability to create 1/1 Thopter tokens.

• Missing a turn: If players tap two untapped artifacts on their main phase to target an opposing creature with Whirler Rogue, they'll miss their combat phase that turn and can't attack or defend.
• Incorrect use of artificers: Some players fail to recognize that the Thopter tokens created by Whirler Rogue are indeed artifact creatures. This mistake stems from not understanding Goblin Piledriver's impact on an already large army.

Artifact Synergies

While Whirler Rogue can tap two untapped artifacts, it requires careful consideration when playing with cards like Arcane Adaptation or Master of Waves. Players must decide whether to use the artifacts for their tokens or save them for future turns.

Whirler Rogue is a formidable creature in Commander formats, particularly when combined with artifact-heavy decks. Its ability to create two 1/1 Thopter tokens upon entry is a game-changer, allowing for swift board control and a rapid tempo boost.

Key Synergies:

• Artifact-based decks like Jhoira of the Ghitelman or Tevesh Szat will find Whirler Rogue to be an excellent addition, as it leverages their artifact engine.
• Combo decks focused on token generation, such as Krenko, Mob Boss, can utilize Whirler Rogue's tokens to overwhelm opponents.

When to Avoid:

• In more controlling or life-gain based decks, Whirler Rogue may struggle to find a suitable outlet for its tokens. Decks relying heavily on Serra Ascendant or Aurelia, the Warleader might want to reconsider including this creature.
• Aggro decks that rely solely on early-game pressure may find it difficult to protect Whirler Rogue from removal spells or opposing creatures.

Conclusion: Whirler Rogue is a versatile and potent creature in Commander formats when paired with the right deck and strategy. Its ability to create tokens and grant flying to existing artifacts makes it an excellent addition to artifact-based decks, but its viability may decrease in more controlling or life-gain focused strategies.

Whirler Rogue is a versatile creature that excels in artifact-heavy decks. Its ability to create flying Thopter tokens on entry makes it an attractive addition to token-producing strategies.

Commanders and Color Identities

• Azami, Lady of Scrolls: A popular Commander who synergizes well with Whirler Rogue's token generation and ability to manipulate the board.
• Griselbrand: A black-oriented Commander that leverages Whirler Rogue's flying tokens to attack the opponent.
• The color identity of U is particularly well-suited for this card, as it allows access to a wide range of artifact creatures and removal spells.

Themes

Whirler Rogue fits into various themes:

• Artificer-themed decks: These decks focus on creating and manipulating artifacts to generate advantage. Whirler Rogue's ability to create flying tokens and tap down artifacts makes it an excellent fit.
• Token-producing strategies: Decks that aim to generate a large number of small creatures can make use of Whirler Rogue's token generation and flying capabilities.

Engines

Several engines complement Whirler Rogue:

• Artifact creatures with tap abilities: Creatures like Golgari Findbroker or Mox Opal enhance the effect of tapping down artifacts.
• Token-generating cards: Spells like Thopter Spy Network or Flickering Ward amplify the number of tokens created by Whirler Rogue.
• Flying creatures and equipment: Equipment like Skyshroud Claim or Soul Wraith can enhance the flying capabilities of Whirler Rogue's tokens.

Synergy Cards

Some synergy cards that work well with Whirler Rogue:

Combo Notes

When combined with Azami, Lady of Scrolls, Whirler Rogue can generate a large number of flying tokens, allowing for a swift attack on the opponent.

Whirler Rogue's Impact in Commander

In Commander, Whirler Rogue is a competitive choice for artifact-themed decks that want to take advantage of its ability to create flying tokens and disrupt opponents. When it enters the battlefield, it creates two 1/1 Thopter tokens with flying, which can quickly swarm the board and apply pressure.

Competitive Use Cases

• In combo-heavy decks like Jhoira of the Ghitrael or Urza, Lord High Artificer, Whirler Rogue's ability to create tokens is invaluable. It can enable a quick clock and allow players to close out games before opponents can stabilize.
• When paired with cards like Aether Vial or Snapcaster Mage, Whirler Rogue becomes a one-turn kill combo. The artifacts provide the necessary resources for Whirler Rogue to enter the battlefield, creating an army of flying tokens that can overwhelm opponents.

Casual Play

Outside of competitive play, Whirler Rogue is still a solid choice in casual artifact decks. Its token generation and flight-granting abilities make it a versatile addition to any deck that wants to incorporate flying creatures.

Rarity and Availability

Whirler Rogue's uncommon rarity makes it relatively affordable compared to other cards with similar abilities. At $0.20 USD, it's an attractive option for players looking to add a high-impact creature to their artifact decks without breaking the bank.

Format Restrictions

While Whirler Rogue is legal in Commander, it's worth noting that some formats may restrict or ban its use due to its powerful token generation and disruption abilities. In particular, formats like Modern or Pauper have strict restrictions on card advantage and token creation, making Whirler Rogue a less viable choice.

Overall, Whirler Rogue remains a popular choice among players in Commander and other casual formats due to its straightforward abilities and high impact on gameplay.

Whirler Rogue excels in scenarios where it can create a swarm of small flyers and disrupt opponents' plans. In multiplayer games, its ability to create two 1/1 Thopter tokens with flying on entry is particularly effective against teams with few flyers.

• Flying army: When paired with Goblin Piledriver or other creatures that benefit from flying, Whirler Rogue becomes a formidable force on the battlefield. • Artifact synergy: When combined with artifact- enabled creatures like Blast Zone, Craw Wurm, and Sage of Shulazod, Whirler Rogue's tap ability to prevent blocking can severely limit opponents' board presence.

However, in mono-color or single-player formats, Whirler Rogue struggles due to its higher CMC. Its 2/2 body is vulnerable to removal spells and creatures with trample. When facing a well-established opponent with a strong board presence, Whirler Rogue's tokens may be swatted aside before they can make an impact.

• Lack of artifact support: Without access to multiple artifacts, Whirler Rogue's tap ability becomes less reliable, limiting its potential. • Slow ramp-up: In single-player formats, the 4 mana cost makes it challenging for Whirler Rogue to develop early, leaving it susceptible to removal spells and other threats.

In multiplayer Commander games with moderate board presence, Whirler Rogue can find success in swarming opponents' creatures or protecting a fragile team's flyers. When facing strong artifact-based combos or well-established token generators like Thopter Spy, Whirler Rogue may struggle to keep up.

Whirler Rogue has a long history in the game. It was first printed in Guilds of Ravnica (GNT) in 2018 as an Uncommon.

This creature's ability to create token creatures on its entry has led it to appear in various formats and decks, often in synergy with Delver of Secrets, Rattlechain or other powerful artifacts that can provide the necessary untapped artifacts for its second ability.

In terms of reprints, Whirler Rogue has not appeared in any sets since its initial print. Its current price is around $0.20 in USD and $0.17 in EUR.

According to EDHREC, a popular online tool for tracking Commander deck lists, Whirler Rogue has appeared in about 2% of all Commander decks that feature artifact combinations. It's most commonly found in Artifact-heavy, mid-range builds often featuring Jesse, the Wicked Witch or Omnath, Locus of the Roil.

The Whirler Rogue is a cunning and agile rogue artificer from the world of Ravnica. This enigmatic figure has honed their skills in the city's sprawling undercity, where they navigate treacherous tunnels and hidden passageways with ease.

In terms of lore, the Whirler Rogue exemplifies the ingenuity and resourcefulness that defines the Artificer class. With a background in tinkering and inventing, they've developed a unique style of combat that leverages their mastery of artifacts to outmaneuver opponents. The ability to create flying Thopter tokens on entry sets them apart from other creatures, reflecting their penchant for innovative problem-solving.

The Whirler Rogue's reliance on artifacts is reminiscent of cards like the Aether Hub or Golgari Findbroker, which share a similar focus on leveraging external resources to gain an advantage. However, whereas those cards often require careful planning and setup, the Whirler Rogue excels at adapting to changing circumstances with their tap ability.

When playing the Whirler Rogue, consider pairing it with artifact-dominant strategies or incorporating other creatures that benefit from flying tokens, such as Kor Spirit Dancer or Fanning Frenzy. This will allow you to maximize the Whirler Rogue's potential and create a formidable force on the battlefield.