Budget Commander Staples: Shard Colors

Last time, I looked at three-color charms for Commander decks. Today I look at other budget three-color spells for this format, focusing on shard colors (those adjacent on the color wheel: WUB, UBR, BRG, RGW, GWU). I'll give five options for each shard and ignore the charms since I covered those last time. The goal is to identify the best versatile spells in these colors.

Esper (WUB)

There are 55 budget cards in Esper colors (as of this writing). My top five: Magister Sphinx is always a late-game surprise. Obscura Confluence is similar to a charm but more powerful (allowing you to choose three modes). Queza is a ticking time bomb that demands opponent's attention. Void Rend is a great removal spell. Sphinx of the Steel Wind is just a great creature.

Grixis (UBR)

There are 69 budget cards in Grixis colors (as of this writing). My top five: Phyrexian Tyranny is amusing (though it affects you, too). Thraximundar is a great way to sacrifice other players' creatures. Cruel Ultimatum is . . . cruel. Slave of Bolas is, too. And Maestros Confluence is a nice modal spell.

Jund (BRG)

There are 62 budget cards in Jund colors (as of this writing). My top five: Violent Ultimatum is the ultimate removal spell. Madrush Cyclops can make your opponents wonder what is coming next. Xira Arien is great for card draw. Riveteers Confluence is a great modal spell. And Mr. Orfeo will make your other creature double their power.

Naya (RGW)

There are 69 budget cards in Naya colors (as of this writing). My top five: Fiery Justice is a flexible spell that can wipe 1-5 other creatures. Zacama is truly a calamity for opponents. Cabaretti Confluence is a great modal spell. Incandescent Aria is effective in limited situations. And Rocco is good in the late game to fetch another creature.

Bant (GWU)

There are 55 budget cards in Bant colors (as of this writing). My top five: Rubinia is a great way to gain control of other creatures. Giltspire Avenger is a helpful destroyer (but you have to take damage first). Brokers Confluence is in the modal spell line each shard has. Endless Detour is a fun removal spell. And Soul of Emancipation is very helpful.

Until next time . . . keep exploring.