Loyal Subordinate

Description

Loyal Subordinate, card number 90 in the 2022 Starter Commander Decks set, is a black single-colored creature designed for the Magic: The Gathering trading card game. Created by artist Kev Walker, this card serves as a thematic entry point for players building zombie-themed decks within the Commander format. As a Zombie with a mana cost of two generic mana and one black mana, it offers immediate board presence without requiring complex resource management, making it accessible for new collectors and casual players alike. The card’s gameplay identity revolves around its lieutenant ability, which activates at the beginning of combat if you control your commander. This effect causes each opponent to lose three life, providing a steady stream of value that scales with the commander’s presence. Combined with the menace keyword, which prevents the creature from being blocked except by two or more creatures, Loyal Subordinate functions as a persistent threat that pressures opponents’ life totals while demanding specific defensive responses. This mechanical synergy makes it a notable piece for those interested in the strategic depth of the Starter Commander Decks release. Collectors appreciate this card for its role in introducing the Commander format’s unique rules to a broader audience. The Starter Commander Decks set was crafted to provide pre-constructed, ready-to-play experiences, and Loyal Subordinate represents the aggressive, life-draining strategies often associated with black mana in Magic. Its inclusion in the set highlights the importance of commander synergy and early-game impact in the format. For hobbyists, owning this card offers a tangible connection to the 2022 release and its educational approach to the game. It stands as a key component for understanding how lieutenant abilities can define a deck’s strategy. Whether used in play or held as a collectible, this card remains a significant part of Magic: The Gathering’s modern legacy.