Elesh Norn, Mother of Machines is highly regarded as a powerful card for several reasons. Its robustness is evident through its seven-toughness, making it a formidable presence on the battlefield that can withstand combat and many red spells. This durability, coupled with a four-power, allows it to effectively threaten opponents and their creatures. The card’s cost at five mana is considered a worthy investment given its potential to significantly alter gameplay dynamics.
MOM Abilities
One of the standout features of Elesh Norn, Mother of Machines is its ability to double the triggered abilities of any permanents entering the battlefield under your control. This capability is likened to the effect of Yarok, the Desecrated, but Elesh Norn brings this potent mechanic with arguably more impactful game-ending potential. Decks centered around enters-the-battlefield (ETB) triggers can leverage Elesh Norn to rapidly advance their position, potentially securing victory within a few turns if the opponent cannot address its presence.
Furthermore, Elesh Norn inhibits opponents’ strategies by preventing their permanents from triggering when they enter the battlefield. This effect disrupts numerous game plans across various formats, especially in environments where ETB triggers are pivotal. The white mana requirement for Elesh Norn makes it an accessible and attractive option for decks capable of exploiting its dual abilities.
Despite its strengths, there are considerations regarding its impact on gameplay and deck building. Being “generically good” might lead to a uniformity in deck construction, where the inclusion of Elesh Norn becomes almost automatic in decks running white. This could potentially stifle creativity and diversity in deck design. The card’s capability to significantly enhance actions players are already taking, without necessitating adjustments to their strategy, raises concerns about its influence on the game’s balance and variety.
What About in Commander?
In a Commander context, Elesh Norn is the keystone for decks built around ETB abilities, acting as a powerful enabler and disruptor. It enhances the deck’s strategy by doubling ETB triggers, significantly boosting card advantage, removal effectiveness, and overall board presence. The card’s ability to negate opponents’ ETB effects further solidifies its status as a formidable commander, capable of tipping the scales in the controller’s favor against creature-heavy and ETB-reliant decks.
Elesh Norn, Mother of Machines exemplifies a card with the capacity to influence the game profoundly, warranting careful consideration by players looking to harness its power while mindful of its broader implications on gameplay dynamics and deck diversity.