Avenger of Zendikar

This mythical creature is a formidable presence on the battlefield, boasting an impressive 5/5 power and toughness. Its entry effect is particularly noteworthy, generating a Plant token for each land you control, which can quickly grow into a swarm.

The Landfall ability allows you to buff these tokens with +1/+1 counters whenever you play additional lands, making them increasingly formidable in combat. Avenger of Zendikar excels at supporting aggressive strategies and is particularly well-suited to Commander decks that focus on ramping up mana quickly.

In popular formats like Modern and Commander, Avenger of Zendikar's ability to create a large number of 2/2 or larger tokens for each land you control can be game-changing.

Avenger of Zendikar is a mythic-rarity creature card from the DDD set. It has a mana cost of {5}{G}{G} and a power/toughness of 5/5.

When Avenger enters the battlefield, it creates a 0/1 green Plant creature token for each land controlled by its controller, thanks to its Oracle text. This effect is triggered when the card enters, not when it's cast from the hand or sideboard.

Landfall is another keyword ability on this card, which allows the player to put a +1/+1 counter on each Plant creature they control whenever a land they control enters. This can be particularly powerful in conjunction with other cards that benefit from counters, such as Beast Whisperer or Fertile Ground. Note that Landfall is a triggered ability, meaning it will only trigger once the condition (a new land entering) is met.

If multiple lands enter simultaneously, Avenger's Landfall ability will trigger each time. For instance, if two lands enter at the same time, Avenger can put +1/+1 counters on all Plant creatures controlled by its controller twice.

In Commander formats, be aware that multiple versions of Avenger can create a large number of 0/1 Plant tokens and apply an abundance of +1/+1 counters. This can lead to situations where opponents are overwhelmed by the sheer number of creatures.

Avenger of Zendikar is a powerful and versatile creature that can be used strategically in various Commander decks, particularly those with a green or elemental theme. Its ability to create 0/1 green Plant creature tokens for each land controlled makes it an excellent addition to lands-heavy strategies.

In Boros-Elemental aggro decks, Avenger of Zendikar can serve as a formidable threat on the battlefield while also generating a horde of small creatures with its token generation. Cards like Serra Ascendant, Luminarch Ascension, and Aurelia, the Warleader complement this strategy by providing additional ramp and removal.

Green-Elemental midrange decks can utilize Avenger's Landfall ability to fuel their token army and provide a significant advantage in combat. Estrid, the Masked Stalker and Kamigawa: Neon Dive are excellent choices to pair with Avenger of Zendikar, as they offer additional token generation and protection.

In more controlling decks that focus on ramp and card draw, Avenger of Zendikar can be used to create a formidable board presence while also generating tokens. Cards like Azcanta, the Sunken Ruin, Bloom Druid and Llanowar Visionary enhance this strategy by providing additional ramp, token generation, or removal.

A notable niche build is the "Token Overload" archetype, which revolves around creating an overwhelming number of small creatures to swarm opponents. Avenger of Zendikar is a crucial piece in this strategy, as it generates tokens quickly and provides a significant advantage on the board. Cards like Griselbrand, Kurkesh, Onakke Ancient and Estrid, the Masked Stalker support this archetype by providing additional token generation, removal, or card draw.

In general, Avenger of Zendikar is an excellent addition to any green or elemental deck that focuses on ramp, token generation, or controlling opponents. Its versatility makes it a valuable asset for players who enjoy adapting their strategy mid-game.

Avenger of Zendikar excels in green-based commanders that focus on land manipulation and token generation. Its ability to create Plant tokens for each land controlled, paired with Landfall's counter-granting effect, creates a synergistic relationship between the card and Llanowar Elves, Fog-based strategies, or commanders like Estrid, the Masked. These combinations can quickly flood the board with 1/1 creatures while simultaneously granting them significant power boosts through +1/+1 counters.

To further amplify this strategy, consider incorporating cards that enhance Plant tokens' abilities, such as Fertile Ground or Rampant Growth. Additionally, using commanders like Kemba, Kha Regent or Atraxa, Praetors' Voice, which reward players for controlling more lands, can further accelerate Avenger's token generation.

In a more aggressive build, pair Avenger with cards that benefit from its high power and toughness, such as Tarmogoyf, Scute Swarm, or Fury Sliver. This combination allows for an early-game presence on the battlefield while setting up for a mid-to-late-game swarm of Plant tokens.

When choosing a commander, keep in mind Avenger's 5 mana cost and consider pairing it with low-cost ramp options like Simian Spirit Guide or [Exploration.

Avenger of Zendikar is a formidable creature that can generate an army of Plant tokens. However, players often make mistakes with this card in Commander formats.

Misunderstanding Landfall Timing

One common mistake is to assume the Landfall trigger happens immediately when Avenger enters the battlefield. In reality, it's triggered by the player playing a land, not by Avenger entering the battlefield. This means that if you play an additional land on your turn after casting Avenger, you can use its ability.

Poor Synergies with Other Cards

Avenger synergizes well with cards like Llanowar Elves and Kodama's Reach, which allow for rapid land development. However, players often overlook the importance of having a consistent mana base to take full advantage of Avenger's abilities. Without sufficient lands, the Plant tokens generated by Avenger will quickly become irrelevant.

Misjudging CMC and Power/Toughness

Avenger has a high CMC (7) and considerable power/toughness (5/5). Players often underestimate its cost and overextend with it, leaving themselves vulnerable to removal spells or aggressive creatures. This can lead to unnecessary losses and missed opportunities for other plays.

Ignoring the 1/0 Token Advantage

Avenger's ability to generate 0/1 Plant tokens is often overlooked in favor of more powerful creatures. However, these tokens are actually quite valuable due to their low power/toughness and ability to block or trade with smaller creatures. They can also be used as a means to block large creatures while the more powerful Avenger deals damage.

Overlooking Card Advantage

The Landfall trigger on Avenger can provide card advantage by allowing players to put +1/+1 counters on their Plant tokens. This can lead to significant board presence and tempo advantages, especially when combined with other cards that benefit from +1/+1 counters.

In Commander formats, players often overlook the importance of timing and synergy with Avenger of Zendikar's abilities. By paying attention to these factors, you can maximize the potential of this powerful creature and create a formidable deck.

Avenger of Zendikar is a Mythic Rare creature from the DDP set, released in 2010. It has a powerful landfall ability that creates 0/1 green Plant creature tokens for each land controlled by the player.

When Avenger of Zendikar enters the battlefield, it creates multiple 0/1 green Plant creature tokens based on the number of lands controlled by the player. This can quickly overwhelm opponents in multiplayer settings.

As the game progresses and new lands enter play, the Landfall ability allows players to put a +1/+1 counter on each Plant creature they control. This synergy with cards like Kodama's Reach or Evolving Wilds can create a cascade effect, amplifying the player's advantage.

Avenger of Zendikar is an impressive 5/5 creature that provides a substantial presence on the battlefield. Its adaptability through Landfall makes it an ideal component in any Zendikar-based deck. When combined with cards like Sylvan Caryatid or Llanowar Elves, Avenger becomes an unstoppable force.

Avenger of Zendikar is a testament to the unfettered potential that resides within the world of Magic. As a mythical creature from the domain of Zendikar, it stands as a beacon for those who would tap into its unbridled might.

In terms of availability and affordability, Avenger of Zendikar is not reprinted often, making it relatively rare. The foil version costs approximately $1.98 USD in Europe and $3.12 USD in the US. Non-foil prices are not readily available.

For similar effects, consider the following budget-friendly alternatives:

• Kodama's Reach: A more accessible and affordable choice with a lower CMC (4G). It allows you to create 2/2 green creature tokens whenever an Elf enters the battlefield.
• Llanowar Elves: Another affordable option that produces a 1/1 green Elf token when it enters. This can help accelerate landfall triggers for cards like Avenger of Zendikar.

In Commander, players often prioritize large creatures and landfall effects. While Avenger of Zendikar is an impressive creature, its high CMC (7G) may be a barrier to entry in some decks. If you're looking for alternative Commander options:

• Avacyn, Angel of Hope: A more affordable 5/5 flying creature that also has a landfall ability.
• Karametra's Acolyte: A smaller, more budget-friendly option with a landfall effect.

Keep in mind that availability and prices can fluctuate over time. When considering adding Avenger of Zendikar to your deck or collection, weigh the costs against alternative options like those mentioned above.

Building around Avenger of Zendikar

Avenger of Zendikar is a powerful creature that leverages the Landfall trigger to create an army of 0/1 Plant tokens, which can be buffed by additional lands entering the battlefield. This card excels in green-based decks that value ramp and token generation.

Commanders and Color Identities

Avenger of Zendikar works well with the following Commanders:

• Kemba, Kha Regent: A legendary creature from the same set as Avenger of Zendikar, Kemba synergizes perfectly with this card by generating tokens on its own.
• Golgari Findbroker: This Commander provides a steady stream of tokens and graveyard hate, allowing for a more aggressive playstyle.
• Lurrus of the Dream-Den: Lurrus's ability to fetch spells and create tokens makes it an excellent pairing with Avenger of Zendikar.

In terms of color identities, green-based decks with moderate ramp are ideal. Adding some white or blue for additional support can be beneficial, but excessive colors may dilute the effectiveness of the Landfall trigger.

Synergy Cards

To maximize Avenger of Zendikar's potential, consider including:

• Rampant Growth: This spell accelerates landfall and allows for more frequent +1/+1 counter applications.
• Sylvan Caryatid: A 2/2 creature that generates a token on each land you control, making it an excellent addition to Avenger of Zendikar decks.
• Goblin Guide: This creature's ability to search for lands accelerates the process and increases the number of Plant tokens generated.

Combo Notes

When building around Avenger of Zendikar, focus on:

• Generating as many lands as possible to maximize token creation
• Creating a steady stream of +1/+1 counters through Landfall triggers
• Using ramp spells and creatures to accelerate landfall

Be cautious not to overload the deck with too many expensive cards, as this can disrupt the flow of gameplay. Balance is key when building around Avenger of Zendikar's unique mechanic.

Avenger of Zendikar's Impact in Commander and Other Formats

In Commander, Avenger of Zendikar is a staple for green Elemental decks that thrive on ramping up their mana to play large creatures. Its ability to create 0/1 Plant tokens for each land controlled is particularly potent when paired with Llanowar Elves, Feldon of the Third Path, and other green ramp spells.

When Avenger of Zendikar enters the battlefield, it creates a swarm of small creatures that can quickly add up to overwhelm opponents. The Landfall ability further enhances these tokens by allowing them to gain +1/+1 counters, making them formidable attackers. To maximize this potential, players often include Golgari Findbroker and Thragtusk in their decks, which provide additional token generation and creature enhancement.

In casual play, Avenger of Zendikar is a popular choice for its ability to create an army of tokens quickly. Its relatively low price point makes it accessible to new players looking to build green Elemental decks without breaking the bank. However, its power level and competitive viability are still debated among experienced players.

Competitive Viability

While Avenger of Zendikar is a powerful card in casual play, its competitiveness in modern Commander decks is limited by its high CMC (7). In recent years, cards like Kurkesh, Onakke Ancient and Golgari Findbroker have pushed the boundaries of what's possible with token generation, making it harder for Avenger of Zendikar to shine.

Format Restrictions

Avenger of Zendikar is banned in several Commander formats due to its potential for explosive growth. In Modern and Standard, its high CMC makes it less appealing, and its abilities are often outclassed by more efficient creatures.

Casual Play and Deckbuilding

For players looking to build a casual green Elemental deck, Avenger of Zendikar is an excellent choice. Pairing it with ramp spells like Llanowar Elves, Feldon of the Third Path, and Verdant Force can help create a formidable army of tokens quickly. Don't forget to include creatures that can enhance these tokens, such as Golgari Findbroker and Thragtusk.

Key Scenarios & Matchups

In a multiplayer Commander game, Avenger of Zendikar shines in green-heavy decks that prioritize landfall and token generation. When paired with Elvish Mystic or Golgari Findbroker, the card's Landfall ability becomes even more formidable.

• Early Game: With two lands on the table, Avenger of Zendikar enters the battlefield and creates multiple 0/1 green Plant creature tokens. This can quickly overwhelm opponents in a multiplayer setting.
• Mid-Game: As you continue to add lands, each new landfall triggers will give your Plant creatures a +1/+1 boost. This synergy with Golgari Findbroker's ability to generate additional mana or tokens from landfall can create a cascade effect.

However, Avenger of Zendikar falls short in more controlled environments or against aggressive opponents:

• Control Decks: Against decks that heavily rely on counterspells or sweepers, the card's token generation becomes less impactful. In these matchups, it's often better to focus on more aggressive or removal-heavy strategies.
• Aggro Decks: Opponents with early-game aggression can disrupt Avenger of Zendikar's ability to generate tokens and ramp up their board presence. In these situations, it's crucial to have a well-rounded deck with efficient removal spells.

To maximize the card's potential in multiplayer games, consider including additional landfall triggers or token generators, such as Rampart Geist or Glimmervoid.

Avenger of Zendikar's History

Released in the DDP set, Avenger of Zendikar is a Mythic Rare creature that has seen its share of play. The card's unique ability to create Plant tokens for each land controlled makes it an interesting addition to green decks.

Tournament Presence

Avenger of Zendikar has appeared in several high-profile tournaments and Magic Online events, often as a key component of aggressive green strategies. Its inclusion in these formats highlights its potential impact on gameplay.

EDHREC Stats

On EDHREC, Avenger of Zendikar holds an average price of $3.12 USD and is ranked #257 in the Power 9 rankings for green creatures. This suggests that while it's not a top-tier choice, it still sees significant play in certain formats.

Iconic Decks

Avenger of Zendikar has been featured in several notable decks, including aggressive green ramp and token generation strategies. Its inclusion in these lists underscores its potential as a game-changer in the right context.

Its foil version is priced at $1.98 EUR and $3.12 USD, suggesting that it remains relatively affordable for collectors and players looking to build around this card.

In the vast expanse of Zendikar, where ancient secrets slumber beneath the surface, Avenger of Zendikar stands as a sentinel. This majestic Elemental creature embodies the unfettered growth and resilience of the plane's native flora. When it enters the battlefield, it brings forth an army of Plant creatures, each one sprouting from the land itself.

The cards Nykthos, Shrine to Nyx and Evolving Wilds would find a natural affinity with Avenger, as they share a connection to Zendikar's untamed power. The Plant tokens generated by Avenger could be just as effective in conjunction with Kodama's Reach, bolstering the player's advantage on each landfall.

The Landfall ability of Avenger allows it to tap into the energy released from new lands entering play, amplifying its prowess through subtle yet potent means. This synergy is reminiscent of Goblin Guide and Avacyn, Angel of Hope, which both leverage life-giving effects to bolster their respective forces.

As a formidable 5/5 creature, Avenger provides a substantial presence on the battlefield. Its ability to adapt to changing circumstances through Landfall makes it an ideal component in any Zendikar-based deck. When combined with cards like Sylvan Caryatid and Llanowar Elves, Avenger becomes an unstoppable force, feeding off the plane's inherent power.

Avenger of Zendikar is a testament to the unfettered potential that resides within the world of Magic. As a mythical creature from the domain of Zendikar, it stands as a beacon for those who would tap into its unbridled might.