{"ops":[{"insert":"Slicer, Hired Muscle — cEDH Combat-Stax Primer"},{"attributes":{"header":1},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"What this deck is trying to do"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The goal is to cast Slicer as early as possible, turn every opponent’s combat step into another attack for me, and use stax pieces to keep faster combo decks from winning before commander damage adds up.\nThe deck has no deterministic infinite combo. It wins through Slicer commander damage, usually accelerated by Jeska, Thrice Reborn, persistent power boosts, double-strike equipment triggers, and carefully chosen stax pieces. The current list runs 30 lands, 20 acceleration cards, 11 draw or filtering effects, 10 protection cards, 11 pieces of interaction, and nine stax effects at an average mana value of 1.87\nThe easiest way to remember the plan is:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Fast Slicer → connect once → generate value → slow the table → stack damage on the same players → finish with Jeska."},{"insert":"\n\nHow I explain the deck to the table"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"“I normally cast Slicer converted for three mana. On my turn he is a 3/2 first-strike Vehicle, and if he hits a player he converts into a 3/4 double striker. At each opponent’s upkeep, I can lend him to that player. He has to attack somebody other than me if possible, returns to me at the end of the turn, and all of his combat damage still counts as damage from my commander.”\n“My Equipment stays under my control while Slicer is loaned out, so I keep the cards, Treasures, Jitte counters, and other Equipment triggers.”\nSlicer’s official text and rulings confirm that he can be cast converted for {2}{R}, converts after the Vehicle side damages a player, and becomes goaded when loaned to an opponent. Commander damage continues to be tracked from the same commander even when another player controls it. tanding Slicer\nCasting him"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Most of the time, I cast Slicer using "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"More Than Meets the Eye for {2}{R}"},{"insert":". He enters as "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Slicer, High-Speed Antagonist"},{"insert":", the Vehicle side.\nDuring my turn, living metal makes him a 3/2 artifact creature with first strike and haste. If he deals combat damage to a player, he converts at the end of combat into "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Slicer, Hired Muscle"},{"insert":", a 3/4 with double strike and haste.\nThat first attack must actually connect with a player. If Slicer gets blocked and does not have trample, he will not convert. He stays on the Vehicle side, stops being a creature when my turn ends, and cannot be handed to opponents because the Vehicle side does not have the upkeep ability.\nThis makes the first connection extremely important. Brotherhood Regalia, Silver Shroud Costume, O-Naginata, Beamtown Beatstick, Built to Smash, Monstrous Rage, Siege Smash, and removal can all help force that first hit.\nCasting him for his normal {4}{R} front-face cost is less efficient, but occasionally correct when:\nI need Slicer to enter directly as a double striker."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The Vehicle side cannot realistically connect."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"I am using Cavern of Souls to force him through countermagic."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"I have enough mana and do not need the three-mana line."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Commander tax is added to whichever cost I use. The second converted cast costs five, the third costs seven, and so on. Command Beacon moves Slicer into my hand, allowing me to cast him without commander tax.\nCavern of Souls warning"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"I normally name "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Robot"},{"insert":" with Cavern of Souls, but its special mana only works when I cast the front side as a Robot creature spell.\nWhen Slicer is cast converted, the spell on the stack is his back face: a Vehicle spell, not a creature spell. Cavern can provide colorless mana toward that cast, but it cannot supply the red mana or make the converted spell uncounterable. Hexing Squelcher does make either side uncounterable.\n\nLoaning Slicer"},{"attributes":{"header":1},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"At the beginning of each opponent’s upkeep, I decide whether to give that player control of Slicer until end of turn.\nIf I give him away:\nSlicer untaps."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Slicer becomes goaded."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"He cannot be sacrificed that turn."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"That opponent controls him and chooses where he attacks."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"He must attack a player other than me if able."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"He automatically returns to me when the control effect ends."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"I do not choose the defending player. I can negotiate and point out the correct threat, but the player controlling Slicer makes the final attack decision.\nWhen I should loan him"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"I usually hand Slicer over when:\nThere are at least three players remaining."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The opponent has a legal target other than me."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The attack advances commander damage on a priority target."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Slicer is protected, or the opponent is unlikely to remove him."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The opponent cannot exploit temporary control of Slicer."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"When I should keep him"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"I may decline to give Slicer away when:\nThe game has become heads-up."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The opponent can exile, bounce, or otherwise dispose of him."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Slicer would be forced into an unprofitable attack."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"I want him to convert into the Vehicle side and temporarily stop being a creature."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"I need to protect him from sorcery-speed creature removal."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"I do not trust the opponent to attack the correct player."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"When I decline, Slicer converts into the Vehicle side. Because living metal only functions during my turn, he normally stops being a creature for the rest of that opponent’s turn.\nHeads-up warning"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Goad does not make Slicer safe in a two-player game. If the player controlling him has no opponent other than me, the goad requirement can allow or require Slicer to attack me.\nOnce only one opponent remains, I normally stop handing Slicer out unless I have a specific reason to do it.\n\nEquipment ownership and triggers"},{"attributes":{"header":1},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Loaning Slicer does not give away my Equipment. It stays attached, but I continue to control it.\nThat means abilities printed on the Equipment are mine:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Mask of Memory:"},{"insert":" I draw two and discard one."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Sword of Fire and Ice:"},{"insert":" I draw the card and choose the target for the two damage."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Beamtown Beatstick:"},{"insert":" I create the Treasure."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Goldvein Pick:"},{"insert":" I create the Treasure."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Pip-Boy 3000:"},{"insert":" I choose the mode."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Strength-Testing Hammer:"},{"insert":" I roll the die and draw the card."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Umezawa’s Jitte:"},{"insert":" The counters go on my Jitte, and I decide when to remove them."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Slicer has double strike on his front face, so combat-damage triggers normally happen twice if both damage steps connect.\nA double-striking Slicer produces:\nFour cards drawn and two discarded with Mask of Memory."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Two cards and four damage with Sword of Fire and Ice."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Two Treasures from Beamtown Beatstick or Goldvein Pick."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Four charge counters on Umezawa’s Jitte."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Attack triggers such as Pip-Boy 3000 and Strength-Testing Hammer happen only once per attack, not once per damage step. The Equipment in the current list and their relevant text are shown in the deck page.\n\nMulligan guide"},{"attributes":{"header":1},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The most important question is not, “Does this hand contain powerful cards?”\nThe question is:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Can this hand cast Slicer by turn two and still do something useful afterward?"},{"insert":"\nIdeal opening hand"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"I want:\nAt least one reliable red source."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Enough permanent or temporary mana to cast Slicer by turn one or two."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"One meaningful follow-up card."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"A reasonable path to card advantage, protection, evasion, or stax."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"A turn-two Slicer with a strong stax piece is usually better than a turn-one Slicer followed by nothing.\nGood follow-up cards"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"After Slicer, I am happy to see:\nMask of Memory"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Brotherhood Regalia"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Beamtown Beatstick"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Goldvein Pick"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Pip-Boy 3000"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"A matchup-relevant stax piece"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"A redirection spell"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The One Ring"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Jeska, Thrice Reborn"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Hands I usually send back"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"I aggressively mulligan hands that have:\nNo red mana."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Several Equipment cards but no fast Slicer."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Multiple stax cards with no pressure."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Only colorless mana that cannot produce the required red."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Too many lands and no card velocity."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"One-shot mana that empties my hand without a meaningful follow-up."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Protection but nothing worth protecting."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Mox Amber is not an initial red source unless I already control Ragavan, Jeska, or another qualifying legendary permanent. It becomes active after Slicer is on the battlefield during my turn.\n\nEarly-game sequencing"},{"attributes":{"header":1},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Turn one and turn two"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"My default order is:\nDeploy zero-mana artifacts."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Use rituals and burst mana."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Cast Slicer."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Force the first connection."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Add draw, protection, or stax according to the table."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"There are exceptions when a turn-one stax piece severely damages opposing opening hands. A turn-one Trinisphere, Blood Moon, Torpor Orb, or Grafdigger’s Cage can be worth delaying Slicer when it shuts down multiple opponents.\nThe key is to play stax "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"after"},{"insert":" using the resources it would interfere with.\nStax sequencing traps"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Vexing Bauble"},{"attributes":{"header":3},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Vexing Bauble counters spells cast without spending mana. That includes my own:\nChrome Mox"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Mox Diamond"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Mox Opal"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Mox Amber"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Lotus Petal"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Lion’s Eye Diamond"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Welding Jar"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Free Deflecting Swat"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"I should deploy my zero-mana artifacts before Bauble whenever possible. If I later need to use a free spell, I can sacrifice Bauble to draw a card first.\nTrinisphere"},{"attributes":{"header":3},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Trinisphere makes my own cheap interaction, rituals, Equipment, and free spells cost at least three mana.\nI want to empty the important portion of my hand before resolving it. Once Slicer and a useful permanent are established, Trinisphere becomes much more one-sided.\nDamping Sphere"},{"attributes":{"header":3},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Damping Sphere punishes storm turns, but it also interferes with my rituals and makes each additional spell more expensive.\nIt also reduces Ancient Tomb and Crystal Vein’s larger mana production. I should use those lands and cast my burst-mana spells before deploying Sphere when possible.\nWinter Orb"},{"attributes":{"header":3},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Winter Orb is strongest after I have established artifact mana. I can continue operating through Sol Ring, Mana Vault, Grim Monolith, Moxen, Treasures, and rituals while opponents rely on their limited land untaps.\nBlood Moon and Magus of the Moon"},{"attributes":{"header":3},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Before resolving a Moon effect, I should use or prepare:\nUrza’s Saga"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Command Beacon"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Homeward Path"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Wasteland"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"War Room"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The Mycosynth Gardens"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Cavern of Souls"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Ancient Tomb"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Crystal Vein"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Blood Moon removes the utility from these lands. Blood Moon also causes Urza’s Saga to lose its chapter abilities and be sacrificed, so I want to finish Saga’s third chapter first whenever practical.\nGrafdigger’s Cage"},{"attributes":{"header":3},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Cage shuts down opposing graveyard and library lines, but it also prevents me from flashing back Faithless Looting. I should use Looting first unless Cage is urgently needed.\n\nChoosing the right stax piece"},{"attributes":{"header":1},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"I do not cast stax simply because I have it. Every stax card should stop something that matters at the current table.\nBlood Moon and Magus of the Moon"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Best against:\nGreedy three-, four-, and five-color mana bases."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Decks dependent on specialty lands."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Players who kept hands without basic lands."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Weak against:\nMono-colored decks."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Players who already established enough colored artifact mana."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Games where I still urgently need my own utility lands."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Cursed Totem"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Best against:\nCreature commanders with activated abilities."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Mana-dork-heavy decks."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Creature-based combo engines."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"It barely affects my own deck because Slicer’s important abilities are triggered and static rather than activated.\nGrafdigger’s Cage"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Best against:\nUnderworld Breach."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Reanimation."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Cards cast from graveyards."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Creatures entering from libraries."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Library-based creature combos."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Torpor Orb"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Best against:\nThassa’s Oracle."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Creature-based enters-the-battlefield combos."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Commanders and engines that depend on ETB value."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"My deck has very few creature ETB abilities, so Orb is highly asymmetrical.\nDamping Sphere"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Best against:\nStorm."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Ritual-heavy combo turns."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Decks casting many spells in one turn."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Lands that produce multiple mana."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Trinisphere"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Best against:\nFree counterspells."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Extremely low-curve decks."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Players relying on zero-mana rocks."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Storm and layered interaction."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"I should not play it before my own setup unless the table is about to become more dangerous than I am.\nVexing Bauble"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Best against:\nFree countermagic."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Zero-mana artifacts."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Alternate-cost spells."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Players depending on casting spells without mana."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Winter Orb"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Best against:\nLand-heavy decks."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Players who have developed few mana rocks."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Tables where I am already ahead on artifact mana."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"\nHow the deck actually wins"},{"attributes":{"header":1},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Basic combat math"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The front side of Slicer has three power and double strike.\nWithout Jeska:\nSlicer’s power Commander damage"},{"attributes":{"table":"1"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"3"},{"attributes":{"table":"2"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"6"},{"attributes":{"table":"2"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"4"},{"attributes":{"table":"3"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"8"},{"attributes":{"table":"3"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"5"},{"attributes":{"table":"4"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"10"},{"attributes":{"table":"4"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"6"},{"attributes":{"table":"5"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"12"},{"attributes":{"table":"5"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"With Jeska’s triple-damage ability:\nSlicer’s power"},{"attributes":{"table":"1"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Commander damage"},{"attributes":{"table":"1"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"3"},{"attributes":{"table":"2"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"18"},{"attributes":{"table":"2"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"4"},{"attributes":{"table":"3"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"24"},{"attributes":{"table":"3"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"5"},{"attributes":{"table":"4"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"30"},{"attributes":{"table":"4"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"6"},{"attributes":{"table":"5"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"36"},{"attributes":{"table":"5"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The formula is simple:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Normal damage = power × 2"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Jeska damage = power × 6"},{"insert":"\nThe Jeska kill"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Jeska, Thrice Reborn is the cleanest finisher in the deck.\nHer zero ability lasts until my next turn. That means I can target Slicer on my turn, pass him around the table, and triple his damage during every opponent’s combat step.\nBase Slicer deals 18 commander damage with Jeska. Any persistent +1-power bonus makes him deal at least 24, killing a player from zero commander damage in one attack.\nOne-shot Jeska setups include:\nJeska + Beamtown Beatstick"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Jeska + Goldvein Pick"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Jeska + a Pip-Boy counter"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Jeska + a Monster Role"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Jeska + Sword of Fire and Ice"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Jeska + Commander's Plate"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Jeska + O-Naginata"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Jeska + a Jitte pump"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Even without a power bonus, Jeska kills anyone who has already taken at least three Slicer commander damage.\nJeska targeting warnings"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Jeska must target Slicer, so I must use her before giving Slicer shroud.\nJeska cannot target Slicer while he has:\nLightning Greaves attached."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Shroud from Silver Shroud Costume."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Protection from red from Sword of Fire and Ice."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Sword of Fire and Ice also prevents Built to Smash, Monstrous Rage, and Siege Smash from targeting Slicer because those spells are red.\nCommander's Plate does not create this problem. It gives protection from white, blue, black, and green, but not red.\nTwo-hit setups"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"A persistent +3-power bonus makes Slicer a 6-power double striker dealing 12 commander damage per attack. Two connections deal 24.\nThe cleanest two-hit setups are:\nCommander's Plate"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"O-Naginata"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Large Strength-Testing Hammer rolls"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Multiple smaller bonuses"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Umezawa’s Jitte counters"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Umezawa’s Jitte combat trick"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"When Slicer deals first-strike damage, Jitte triggers and receives two charge counters before the regular combat-damage step.\nI can immediately remove those two counters to give Slicer +4/+4 before regular damage. With an otherwise unmodified Slicer:\nFirst-strike damage: 3"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Jitte gains two counters"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Remove both for +4/+4"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Regular damage: 7"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Total commander damage: 10"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"After regular damage, Jitte triggers again and receives another two counters.\nJitte can also kill mana creatures, hatebears, and small blockers without spending cards from my hand.\n\nChoosing attack targets"},{"attributes":{"header":1},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Commander damage is tracked separately for each player, so spreading damage evenly is usually a mistake.\nI want to concentrate attacks on:\nThe player most capable of winning through my current stax."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The player who has already taken Slicer damage."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The player with the fewest relevant blockers."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The player whose removal is most dangerous to Slicer."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The player least likely to cooperate with future attacks."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The first opponent I eliminate should usually be the player who can ignore my stax configuration.\nFor example:\nUnder Blood Moon, attack the player with artifact-based colored mana or a mono-colored combo deck."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Under Cursed Totem, attack the spell-based combo deck."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Under Grafdigger’s Cage, attack the player who does not need the graveyard."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Under Torpor Orb, attack the deck whose win condition is not based on ETB triggers."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Politics are part of the deck. I should clearly explain why attacking a particular opponent is good for the player currently controlling Slicer. I cannot force their choice, but I can make the correct choice obvious.\n\nCard-advantage engines"},{"attributes":{"header":1},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Mask of Memory"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"This is one of the best cards in the deck. A double-striking Slicer that connects twice draws four cards and discards two.\nMask is usually my preferred early Equipment when I already know Slicer can connect.\nSword of Fire and Ice"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Sword provides protection, power, removal, and card advantage. Double strike draws two cards and deals four additional damage.\nThe two damage is not commander damage, but it is excellent for removing blockers, mana creatures, and utility creatures.\nRemember that protection from red prevents my own red pump spells and Jeska from targeting Slicer.\nPip-Boy 3000"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The mode depends on what I need:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Sort Inventory:"},{"insert":" Improve my hand."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Pick a Perk:"},{"insert":" Increase the commander-damage clock."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Check Map:"},{"insert":" Untap Ancient Tomb, War Room, or two Mountains to keep interaction available."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Because I control Pip-Boy, I choose the mode even when an opponent is attacking with Slicer.\nStrength-Testing Hammer"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Hammer creates both pressure and card advantage. Slicer is often tied for or above the highest power at a cEDH table, making the draw trigger reasonably consistent.\nThe One Ring"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The Ring is my best standalone recovery card. It protects me for a turn cycle and then provides increasing card advantage.\nThe protection applies to me, not my permanents, so opponents can still remove Slicer, my Equipment, or my stax pieces.\nWheel of Misfortune"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"I use Wheel when:\nMy hand is nearly empty."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Opponents have sculpted strong hands."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"A player has tutored without immediately using the card."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"I need to recover after spending burst mana."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Choosing zero normally means I am trying not to wheel. When I need the new hand, I choose a number high enough that I am unlikely to be the lowest selection.\nWinds of Change"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Winds does not produce raw card advantage, but it disrupts sculpted hands and replaces weak cards cheaply.\nIt is strongest after an opponent tutors or when my hand contains several cards that are poor in the current matchup.\nGamble"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Gamble usually finds:\nJeska for a lethal turn."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Mask of Memory or The One Ring for cards."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Brotherhood Regalia for evasion."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"A specific stax piece."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Protection for a committed kill."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Urza’s Saga or Command Beacon when needed."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"I should not cast Gamble as my final card in hand for a card I need to keep. After Gamble resolves, the tutored card would be the only card in my hand and would be discarded automatically.\nGamble is safest while my hand is still large enough to dilute the random discard.\n\nProtection and interaction"},{"attributes":{"header":1},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Protecting Slicer while I control him"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"While Slicer is under my control, I can use:\nDeflecting Swat for free."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Bolt Bend at its reduced cost if Slicer has at least four power."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Mithril Coat’s flash attachment."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Silver Shroud Costume."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Lightning Greaves."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Redirect Lightning."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Ricochet Trap."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Welding Jar."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Commander's Plate."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Brotherhood Regalia."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Protecting Slicer while an opponent controls him"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Once I lend Slicer to an opponent, several cards become less efficient:\nDeflecting Swat is no longer free because I do not control my commander."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Bolt Bend may no longer receive its power-based discount."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Mithril Coat cannot flash-attach to Slicer because I do not control him."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Silver Shroud Costume cannot target him because I do not control him."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Hexing Squelcher does not give Slicer ward because Slicer is no longer a creature I control."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Mox Amber may stop producing mana unless I control Ragavan or Jeska."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Protection already attached to Slicer continues to work:\nLightning Greaves still gives shroud."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Mithril Coat still gives indestructible."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Commander's Plate still provides its bonuses and protection."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Brotherhood Regalia still provides evasion and ward."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Silver Shroud Costume still makes Slicer unblockable."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Sword of Fire and Ice still grants protection from red and blue."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Welding Jar can regenerate Slicer even while another player controls him because it only requires an artifact target, not an artifact I control.\nShroud sequencing"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Lightning Greaves and Silver Shroud Costume can interfere with my own cards.\nBefore giving Slicer shroud, I should:\nEquip everything else."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Cast targeted pump spells."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Activate Jeska."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Attach Greaves or resolve Costume last."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"If Lightning Greaves is already attached, I need another creature to move it onto before I can target Slicer with additional equip abilities.\nInteraction priorities"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"My interaction is limited compared with blue decks, so I should not spend it casually.\nMy priority is:\nStop a game-winning spell or ability."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Protect a lethal Slicer attack."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Remove a permanent that invalidates my game plan."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Clear a blocker that prevents Slicer from connecting."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Protect a stax piece only when it is holding back multiple opponents."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Pyroblast and Red Elemental Blast should normally stop wins or protect major plays, not trade for ordinary value spells.\nTibalt’s Trickery is the emergency button. It can counter anything, but the opponent receives a random replacement spell. I use it when allowing the original spell to resolve would be worse than accepting that risk.\nChaos Warp answers permanents mono-red otherwise struggles to remove.\nUntimely Malfunction is especially flexible because it can destroy an artifact, redirect a targeted spell or ability, or remove blockers for a lethal attack.\nBlasphemous Act"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Blasphemous Act is the reset button when creature decks get ahead or blockers make combat impossible.\nSlicer can survive it with:\nMithril Coat."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Sword of Fire and Ice, because protection from red prevents the damage."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Welding Jar regeneration."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Commander's Plate does not protect Slicer from Blasphemous Act because Plate does not grant protection from red.\n\nUtility lands and artifact tutoring"},{"attributes":{"header":1},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Urza’s Saga"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Saga can find the card I need rather than always finding the same artifact.\nCommon targets include:\nMana"},{"attributes":{"header":3},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Sol Ring"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Chrome Mox"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Mox Diamond"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Mox Opal"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Mox Amber"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Lotus Petal"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Lion’s Eye Diamond"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Cards and setup"},{"attributes":{"header":3},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Sensei’s Divining Top"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Pip-Boy 3000"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Expedition Map"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Protection"},{"attributes":{"header":3},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Welding Jar"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Stax"},{"attributes":{"header":3},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Grafdigger’s Cage"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Vexing Bauble"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Urza’s Saga searches for an artifact with an actual mana cost of {0} or {1}. It cannot find a colored one-mana artifact such as Beamtown Beatstick if its printed cost is {R}.\nExpedition Map"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The correct target depends on the game:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Ancient Tomb:"},{"insert":" Immediate acceleration."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Urza’s Saga:"},{"insert":" Long-term artifact value."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Command Beacon:"},{"insert":" Commander tax recovery."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Homeward Path:"},{"insert":" Recover Slicer from theft or end a loan early."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Cavern of Souls:"},{"insert":" Force the front face through countermagic."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Wasteland:"},{"insert":" Remove a critical opposing land."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"War Room:"},{"insert":" Card advantage in a slower game."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Homeward Path can also retrieve Slicer immediately while an opponent controls him. This is useful if the loan becomes dangerous or if I need to remove him from combat.\nThe Mycosynth Gardens"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Gardens can copy an important artifact after it has served as a mana source.\nUseful copies include:\nSol Ring"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Mana Vault"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Grim Monolith"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Mask of Memory"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Brotherhood Regalia"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"A nonlegendary stax piece"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"A useful opposing artifact I control a copy of through Masterwork"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Copying a legendary artifact such as The One Ring or Umezawa’s Jitte can trigger the legend rule, so I only do that with a specific plan.\nMasterwork of Ingenuity"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Masterwork is flexible rather than predetermined.\nMy usual priorities are:\nA draw Equipment when I need cards."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Evasion when Slicer cannot connect."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"A persistent power boost when I need to shorten the clock."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"A strong opposing Equipment."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"An additional protection piece."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"It can enter as a copy of Silver Shroud Costume and receive the Costume’s enters-the-battlefield trigger because it enters as the copied Equipment.\n\nRecovering after Slicer is removed"},{"attributes":{"header":1},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Slicer will eventually be removed. I should not protect him at any cost if recasting him is manageable.\nMy recovery tools are:\nCommand Beacon to avoid commander tax."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The One Ring to rebuild my hand."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Wheel of Misfortune to reload."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Winds of Change to replace a weak hand."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"War Room for incremental cards."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Mask of Memory and Sword of Fire and Ice if I can reconnect."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Jeska’s Will for both mana and cards."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Anje’s Ravager when my hand is depleted."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"If Slicer becomes too expensive to cast, I may need to stop treating him as the immediate plan and establish The One Ring, Urza’s Saga, War Room, Ragavan, Anje’s Ravager, or stax before trying again.\n\nQuick in-game checklist"},{"attributes":{"header":1},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Opening hand"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Can I produce red mana?"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Can I cast Slicer by turn two?"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Can the Vehicle side connect?"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"What is my follow-up?"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Does my stax card actually affect this table?"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Before casting Slicer"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Have I played my zero-mana artifacts before Vexing Bauble?"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Am I about to hurt myself with Trinisphere or Damping Sphere?"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Do I need to use Urza’s Saga or another utility land before Blood Moon?"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Before the first attack"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Can Slicer deal damage to a player?"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Does he need trample, menace, unblockable, or removal?"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Am I attacking the player I ultimately want to kill?"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Before playing Jeska"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Does Slicer have shroud?"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Does Sword of Fire and Ice give him protection from red?"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Does he already have at least four power for a one-shot kill?"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Which players already have at least three commander damage?"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Before loaning Slicer"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Who can the opponent legally attack?"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Who should be attacked?"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Can the opponent remove or exploit Slicer?"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Will Mox Amber or free Deflecting Swat turn off?"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Is the game heads-up?"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Before casting stax"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"What exact deck or win condition does this stop?"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Have I already used the resources it shuts down?"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Am I ahead enough to play under it?"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Does it prevent me from protecting a lethal attack?"},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"\nThe shortest version"},{"attributes":{"header":1},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Cast Slicer converted as early as possible. Make sure the first attack connects so he flips into the double-strike side. Add one efficient value or evasion Equipment, then play the stax piece that hurts the table more than it hurts me. Concentrate commander damage on the same opponents. Use Jeska before shroud or protection from red, and remember that Jeska plus any +1-power bonus makes Slicer deal at least 24 commander damage."},{"insert":"\n"}]}