{"ops":[{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Cloud Equip Pilot Guide"},{"attributes":{"header":1},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Commander:"},{"insert":" Cloud, Ex-SOLDIER\n "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Colors:"},{"insert":" Naya\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":" Power:"},{"insert":" Bracket 4 / Optimized\n "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Archetype:"},{"insert":" Equipment / Voltron Combat Midrange\n "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Primary Engine:"},{"insert":" Cloud + Equipment + Attack Triggers\n "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Primary Finishers:"},{"insert":" Aggravated Assault / Aurelia, the Warleader / Lightning, Army of One / Commander Damage\n "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Secondary Engine:"},{"insert":" Equipment Tutors + Combat-Damage Value\n "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Primary Tags:"},{"insert":" Equipment • Voltron • Extra Combats • Combat Matters • Commander Damage\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"1. What This Deck Wants to Do"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Cloud is not merely a creature you load with every sword you can find.\nHe is an "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Equipment engine"},{"insert":".\nCloud has haste, automatically attaches one Equipment you already control when he enters, and whenever he attacks you draw a card for "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"each equipped attacking creature you control"},{"insert":". If Cloud has at least 7 power, that attack also creates two Treasure tokens.\nThe fundamental plan is:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Develop mana"},{"insert":"\n↓\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Deploy Equipment"},{"insert":"\n↓\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Cast Cloud"},{"insert":"\n↓\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Attach your best Equipment for free"},{"insert":"\n↓\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Attack at 7+ power"},{"insert":"\n↓\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Draw cards + create Treasures"},{"insert":"\n↓\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Use those resources to build a larger armed battlefield"},{"insert":"\n↓\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Generate additional combats"},{"insert":"\n↓\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Kill through combat or commander damage"},{"insert":"\nThe important distinction is that this is "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"not pure Voltron"},{"insert":".\nCloud rewards having several equipped attackers.\nYou want Cloud to be terrifying, but you can also distribute weapons among creatures such as Aurelia, Lightning, Tifa, Firion and Gilgamesh.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"2. Understanding Cloud"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Cloud is a 4/4 with haste.\nWhen he enters:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Attach up to one target Equipment you control to Cloud."},{"insert":"\nThat ability is extremely important.\nIt means expensive equip costs can be bypassed.\nThen when Cloud attacks:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Draw one card for each equipped attacking creature you control."},{"insert":"\nAfter that, if Cloud's power is at least 7:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Create two Treasures."},{"insert":"\nYour first important breakpoint is therefore:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"7 power."},{"insert":"\nCloud begins at 4.\nYou want an Equipment providing at least +3 power whenever possible.\nThat turns Cloud from merely a card-advantage commander into both:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"card advantage + mana generation."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"3. The 7-Power Rule"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"When choosing between two reasonable Equipment pieces, ask:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"\"Does this put Cloud to 7?\""},{"insert":"\nIf yes, its effective value is greater than its printed text suggests.\nThe difference between a 6-power Cloud and a 7-power Cloud is two Treasures "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"every time Cloud attacks"},{"insert":".\nWith extra combats, this scales rapidly.\nOne attack:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"2 Treasures."},{"insert":"\nThree attacks:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"6 Treasures."},{"insert":"\nFive attacks:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"10 Treasures."},{"insert":"\nThose Treasures can then fund additional Equipment, equip costs, interaction, or even more combat steps.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"4. Equipment Before Cloud"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Cloud's ETB ability only helps if an Equipment is already waiting.\nTherefore, your preferred sequencing is often:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Equipment → Cloud"},{"insert":"\nrather than:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Cloud → Equipment."},{"insert":"\nFor example:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Turn 3: Buster Sword"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Turn 4/5: Cloud"},{"insert":"\nCloud enters.\nBuster Sword immediately attaches.\nCloud now has haste and can attack immediately with the Equipment already online.\nThat is much stronger than casting Cloud onto an empty battlefield.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"5. Buster Sword"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Buster Sword is one of the strongest weapons in the deck.\nIt gives +3/+2, which takes Cloud directly from 4 power to the critical "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"7-power breakpoint"},{"insert":".\nWhen the equipped creature connects, you draw a card and may cast a spell from your hand with mana value no greater than the damage dealt without paying its mana cost.\nThat means a Buster Sword Cloud can potentially produce:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Cloud attack draw"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"two Treasures"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Buster Sword combat-damage draw"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"a free spell from your hand."},{"insert":"\nThat is an enormous resource swing from one attack.\nIf Buster Sword is already on the battlefield when Cloud enters, Cloud can attach it immediately.\nThis is one of your cleanest setup sequences.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"6. Stoneforge Mystic"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Stoneforge is one of your best setup cards.\nDo not automatically search for the largest Equipment.\nAsk what your hand needs.\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Need explosive value?"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Buster Sword"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Need mana?"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Sword of Feast and Famine"},{"insert":" or "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"The Reaver Cleaver"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Need immediate commander damage?"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Colossus Hammer"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Need protection?"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Hammer of Nazahn / Kaldra Compleat / appropriate defensive Equipment"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Need evasion?"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Shadowspear"},{"insert":" or another relevant weapon.\nStoneforge's activated ability can also cheat expensive Equipment onto the battlefield.\nThat is especially valuable with your expensive weapons.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"7. Your Equipment Tutor Network"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"This deck has unusually good access to its weapons.\nYou have:\nEnlightened Tutor"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Stoneforge Mystic"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Steelshaper's Gift"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Open the Armory"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Kellan, the Fae-Blooded"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Cloud, Midgar Mercenary"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Armored Skyhunter"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Sunforger"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"This means you should think of the Equipment package as a "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"toolbox"},{"insert":".\nYou don't merely draw whatever weapon happens to appear.\nYou select the weapon required by the battlefield.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"8. Colossus Hammer"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Hammer provides +10/+10.\nThe drawback is losing flying and the enormous equip cost.\nCloud helps circumvent the equip problem.\nIf Hammer is already on the battlefield when Cloud enters:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Cloud's ETB can simply attach it."},{"insert":"\nNow Cloud becomes a gigantic commander-damage threat without paying Hammer's normal equip cost.\nSigarda's Aid, Hammer of Nazahn and other attachment effects similarly help bypass equip costs.\nDo not plan to pay eight mana fairly unless the game has become extremely long.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"9. Sigarda's Aid"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"This is one of the deck's strongest support cards.\nEquipment gains flash.\nMore importantly, Equipment can attach immediately when it enters.\nThis dramatically changes combat math.\nWith Aid on the battlefield, opponents cannot safely assume Cloud's current power is Cloud's final power.\nYou can introduce another Equipment during combat and immediately attach it.\nAid also makes expensive equip costs far less relevant.\nProtect it when it is central to your hand.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"10. Puresteel Paladin"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Puresteel does two things you desperately want.\nIt rewards Equipment entering with cards.\nAnd with metalcraft, equip costs become zero.\nOnce metalcraft is active, Equipment can be moved around your battlefield freely.\nThat means you can:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"equip attackers before combat"},{"insert":"\nthen later redistribute Equipment according to what survives.\nPuresteel turns your arsenal from a collection of expensive activated abilities into a flexible combat system.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"11. Sram, Senior Edificer"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Sram is your straightforward Equipment draw engine.\nEquipment already constitutes a major percentage of the deck.\nTherefore Sram converts normal development into card velocity.\nIf you have Sram and several Equipment in hand, strongly consider resolving Sram first.\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Engine → Equipment"},{"insert":"\nis better than:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Equipment → engine."},{"insert":"\nGet paid for cards you were going to cast anyway.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"12. Armored Skyhunter"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Skyhunter converts attacks into additional Equipment development.\nThis reinforces an important rule of the deck:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Attacking is how you generate resources."},{"insert":"\nYou don't need every attack to eliminate somebody.\nSome attacks exist to:\ndraw cards;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"generate Treasure;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"find Equipment;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"trigger Sword abilities;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"prepare the next combat."},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Combat is your card-advantage engine.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"13. Sword of Feast and Famine"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"This is one of the most important Equipment pieces in the deck.\nWhen the equipped creature connects, Sword untaps all your lands.\nNormally, that is simply excellent value.\nWith "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Aggravated Assault"},{"insert":", it can become much more.\nAggravated Assault requires five mana to create another combat phase and main phase.\nIf Sword of Feast and Famine untaps lands capable of producing at least five mana after combat damage:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Combat"},{"insert":"\n↓\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Sword untaps lands"},{"insert":"\n↓\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Pay 5 to Aggravated Assault"},{"insert":"\n↓\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"New combat"},{"insert":"\n↓\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Connect again"},{"insert":"\n↓\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Untap lands again"},{"insert":"\n↓\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Repeat"},{"insert":"\nThat produces repeated combat phases as long as the equipped creature continues connecting.\nThis is one of the deck's strongest finishing engines.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"14. Aggravated Assault"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Do not treat Assault as a five-mana spell that must immediately do something.\nIt is an engine.\nYour best Assault turns occur when your mana generation can fund repeated activations.\nRelevant resources include:\nSword of Feast and Famine"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Cloud's Treasure production"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The Reaver Cleaver"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"normal lands"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"other Treasure generation"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Cloud himself makes Assault much more dangerous.\nEvery Cloud attack at 7+ power creates two Treasures.\nAdditional combats create additional Cloud attack triggers.\nThat means your combat engine can partially fund itself.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"15. Aurelia, the Warleader"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Aurelia provides another direct extra-combat effect.\nHer first attack each turn untaps your creatures and creates another combat.\nThat gives you:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Cloud attack trigger #1"},{"insert":"\nthen\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Cloud attack trigger #2"},{"insert":"\nassuming Cloud attacks in both combats.\nEach Cloud trigger can draw cards.\nEach qualifying Cloud attack can create two Treasures.\nTherefore Aurelia isn't merely additional damage.\nShe can double your attack-based resource generation.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"16. Helm of the Host + Aurelia"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"This is one of the most dangerous interactions in the deck.\nHelm creates a nonlegendary token copy of the equipped creature at the beginning of combat.\nWith Aurelia, token copies can create additional attack-based combat triggers.\nIf the relevant Aurelia/Helm sequence is established correctly, it can generate repeated combat phases.\nThis is a genuine finishing line.\nBecause Helm costs substantial mana to cast and equip, don't telegraph it unnecessarily.\nUse your equip-cheating infrastructure whenever possible.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"17. Hexplate Wallbreaker"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Wallbreaker gives you another way to turn Equipment development into additional combat.\nThe deck already wants creatures equipped.\nTherefore the setup requirement is naturally compatible with your normal game plan.\nExtra combats are especially valuable because they retrigger:\nCloud"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"combat-damage Equipment"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Armored Skyhunter"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Aurelia-style effects"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Treasure generation"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"One additional combat in this deck frequently means far more than one additional attack.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"18. Lightning, Army of One"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Lightning is a terrifying damage amplifier.\nShe has first strike, trample and lifelink.\nMore importantly, when she deals combat damage to a player, subsequent damage to that player and their permanents is doubled until your next turn.\nThis creates a natural sequence:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Lightning connects first"},{"insert":"\n↓\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Opponent becomes vulnerable to doubled damage"},{"insert":"\n↓\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Cloud and the rest of the battlefield hit much harder."},{"insert":"\nDouble strike makes this interaction even nastier because first-strike damage can establish Lightning's effect before the normal combat-damage step.\nUse Lightning to designate the opponent you intend to erase.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"19. Commander Damage"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Never forget the number:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"21"},{"insert":"\nCloud is naturally suited to commander kills.\nHe begins at 4 power.\nEquipment scales that rapidly.\nColossus Hammer, Blackblade Reforged, Excalibur, Embercleave, Aettir and Priwen, Buster Sword and other weapons can push Cloud into lethal territory surprisingly quickly.\nTrack commander damage "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"per opponent"},{"insert":".\nSometimes the easiest path is not assembling an infinite or repeated-combat engine.\nSometimes one opponent has already taken 12 from Cloud.\nKill them.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"20. Aettir and Priwen"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"This Equipment makes the equipped creature's base power and toughness equal to your life total.\nThat means your life total becomes an offensive resource.\nAt 40 life, the equipped creature begins from a "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"40/40 base"},{"insert":" before other relevant modifications.\nThis can make Cloud immediately lethal through commander damage.\nHowever, the card is expensive to cast and equip.\nPrefer:\nCloud's ETB attachment;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Sigarda's Aid;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Hammer of Nazahn;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"other equip-cheating mechanisms."},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Do not spend eleven mana fairly unless the game state demands it.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"21. Blackblade Reforged"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Cloud is legendary.\nTherefore Blackblade's equip cost is cheap on him.\nIts power bonus scales with the number of lands you control.\nThat makes it an efficient late-game commander-damage weapon.\nUnlike the expensive haymaker Equipment, Blackblade doesn't require elaborate setup.\nSometimes efficiency wins.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"22. Embercleave"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Double strike is extraordinarily dangerous in this deck.\nWhy?\nBecause your Equipment already creates enormous power.\nDoubling combat damage from a 10+ power commander is frequently lethal.\nIt also allows combat-damage triggers to happen in both combat-damage steps when appropriate.\nUse Embercleave as a surprise finisher whenever possible rather than casually exposing it before combat.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"23. The Reaver Cleaver"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Cleaver turns combat damage into Treasure.\nCloud already rewards attacking.\nNow successful combat can produce even more mana.\nThis is particularly dangerous with:\ndouble strike;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"extra combats;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"large power;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Aggravated Assault."},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The larger the equipped creature becomes, the more explosive Cleaver becomes.\nIt is one of your bridges between "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"combat damage and combo-like mana generation."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"24. Sunforger"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Sunforger is not merely +4/+0.\nIt turns available mana into access to important instants.\nRelevant effects in the deck include protection and removal.\nThis makes Sunforger particularly valuable in interactive games.\nOnce equipped and with mana available, opponents have to respect the possibility that you can find an answer directly from the library.\nDo not automatically activate Sunforger.\nSometimes representing the activation is more valuable than spending the mana.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"25. Protection Is Part of the Win Condition"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Your commander costs five mana.\nYour Equipment board may represent many additional turns of investment.\nTherefore protection isn't optional.\nThe list includes:\nAkroma's Will"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Champion's Helm"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Clever Concealment"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Conqueror's Flail"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Deflecting Swat"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Flawless Maneuver"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Galadriel's Dismissal"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Halvar / Sword of the Realms"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Hammer of Nazahn"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Heroic Intervention"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Lightning Greaves"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Swiftfoot Boots"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Teferi's Protection"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"This is a serious defensive package.\nThe deck expects to establish a dangerous board and "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"keep it."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"26. Conqueror's Flail"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Flail is both a power boost and protection.\nThe important text is the restriction it places on opponents casting spells during your turn while it is attached.\nThat creates a much safer combat/combo window.\nIf you are preparing an Aggravated Assault or lethal commander-damage turn:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Equip Flail first."},{"insert":"\nThen begin committing the pieces that actually matter.\nProtection before payoff.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"27. Akroma's Will"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Will can be both protection and a finisher.\nWith your commander present, obtaining both modes creates an extraordinary combat step.\nThe combination of keywords can turn an ordinary equipped battlefield into lethal damage while simultaneously making interaction difficult.\nDo not mentally classify Will only as a defensive spell.\nBefore casting it defensively, ask:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Could this card simply kill everyone next turn?"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"28. Clever Concealment"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Convoke makes this much easier to hold up than four mana suggests.\nPhasing is excellent protection because it handles many forms of removal that indestructible cannot.\nIt can protect:\nCloud"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"your Equipment"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"your support creatures"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"other essential nonland permanents"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"This is one of your best answers to mass exile.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"29. Teferi's Protection"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"This is your emergency lever.\nSave it for situations where losing the board would be catastrophic.\nIt can also create offensive opportunities.\nIf an opponent wipes the board and you phase out:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Everyone else loses resources."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"You return with your arsenal intact."},{"insert":"\nThat can create a nearly uncontested lethal turn.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"30. Do Not Overprotect Cloud"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Cloud will sometimes die.\nThat is Commander.\nDo not spend a premium protection spell merely to prevent insignificant removal if your hand can comfortably recast him.\nAsk:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"What am I actually protecting?"},{"insert":"\nIf Cloud dying destroys a lethal sequence, protect him.\nIf Cloud dying merely inconveniences you while an opponent is threatening a board wipe next turn, consider saving the protection.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"31. Mulligan Philosophy"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"You want hands that can execute:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Mana → Equipment/setup → Cloud."},{"insert":"\nAn ideal opening contains:\n2–3 lands;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"ramp;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"an Equipment or tutor;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"preferably draw/protection."},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"You do "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"not"},{"insert":" need Cloud in hand.\nHe lives in the command zone.\nYour opening hand should prepare the battlefield for his arrival.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"32. Excellent Opening Structure"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Something like:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Arid Mesa"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Battlefield Forge"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Sol Ring"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Stoneforge Mystic"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Buster Sword"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Heroic Intervention"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Swords to Plowshares"},{"insert":"\nis excellent.\nYou have:\nmana;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"acceleration;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Equipment access;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"a premium weapon;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"protection;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"interaction."},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The hand has a plan.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"33. Weak Opening Structure"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Something like:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Five lands"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Aettir and Priwen"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Aurelia"},{"insert":"\nis poor.\nYes, the cards are powerful.\nNo, the hand does not do anything meaningful early.\nMulligan.\nPowerful cards are not the same thing as a powerful hand.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"34. Early Game"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Your early turns should establish infrastructure.\nPrioritize:\nSol Ring"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Arcane Signet"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Cid"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Sword of the Animist"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Stoneforge Mystic"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Sram"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Puresteel Paladin"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Sigarda's Aid"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"cheap Equipment"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"You generally want something useful already waiting when Cloud arrives.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"35. Casting Cloud"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Cloud costs five.\nDo not automatically cast him as soon as you reach five mana.\nAsk:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Is an Equipment waiting?"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Can Cloud reach 7 power immediately?"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Can he safely attack?"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Do I have protection?"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Does casting Cloud generate immediate cards/Treasures?"},{"insert":"\nThe ideal Cloud cast immediately produces value.\nA five-mana commander that gets removed before attacking is a significant tempo loss.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"36. Midgame"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"This is where the deck should begin snowballing.\nYou want:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Cloud + Equipment + draw engine + protection."},{"insert":"\nNow every attack generates additional resources.\nThose resources produce more Equipment.\nMore Equipment means larger Cloud attack draws.\nLarger Cloud attack draws find extra-combat effects.\nExtra combats generate more Cloud triggers.\nThe deck is designed to create a "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"combat feedback loop."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"37. Late Game"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Stop asking how much value you can generate.\nStart asking:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"How does everyone die?"},{"insert":"\nLook for:\nAggravated Assault;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Sword of Feast and Famine;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Aurelia;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Helm of the Host;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Hexplate Wallbreaker;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Lightning;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Akroma's Will;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Full Throttle;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"enormous Cloud commander damage."},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The deck has many ways to turn an established battlefield into lethal.\nUse them.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"38. Who Should Cloud Attack?"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Do not automatically attack the player with the lowest life total.\nConsider:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Who has the least ability to block?"},{"insert":"\nCloud must connect for many Equipment triggers.\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Who has already taken commander damage?"},{"insert":"\n21 is often easier than 40.\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Who is the largest strategic threat?"},{"insert":"\nSometimes eliminating the combo player is worth sacrificing some efficiency.\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Who can punish you on the crackback?"},{"insert":"\nDon't eliminate one player only to immediately die to another.\nCombat decks require political threat assessment.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"39. Spread Equipment When Appropriate"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Cloud draws for "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"each equipped attacking creature"},{"insert":", not for the number of Equipment attached to Cloud.\nThat means:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Cloud with five Equipment = one equipped attacker."},{"insert":"\nBut:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Cloud + Aurelia + Lightning, each equipped = three equipped attackers."},{"insert":"\nIf all three attack, Cloud draws three cards.\nTherefore, once Cloud is sufficiently dangerous, consider distributing excess Equipment among other attackers.\nThis is one of the most important subtleties of the commander.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"40. When to Go Full Voltron"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Stack Equipment onto Cloud when:\ncommander damage presents lethal;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"you need the 7-power Treasure threshold;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"the battlefield favors one evasive attacker;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"you have strong protection;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"one opponent must die immediately."},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Spread Equipment when:\nCloud already has enough power;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"you want maximum attack-trigger card draw;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"multiple attackers can connect;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"a single removal spell would otherwise ruin your entire combat."},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Know which mode the game demands.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"41. Board-Wipe Discipline"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Equipment often survives creature sweepers.\nThat is one of your advantages.\nIf Cloud and your creatures die but five Equipment remain, you can rebuild quickly.\nTherefore, don't automatically spend premium protection on every Wrath.\nAsk:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Does the wipe destroy my Equipment too?"},{"insert":"\nIf not, letting creatures die may sometimes be acceptable.\nRecast Cloud.\nCloud immediately picks up one of the surviving weapons.\nAttack again.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"42. Removal Priorities"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Your removal includes:\nSwords to Plowshares"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Path to Exile"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Dispatch"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Generous Gift"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Cloud's Limit Break"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Untimely Malfunction"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Final Showdown"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Do not waste removal clearing random blockers unless doing so creates lethal.\nPrioritize:\ncombo engines;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"effects preventing combat;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"artifact hate;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"creatures that punish attacking;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"effects preventing Equipment attachment;"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"blockers only when they actually stop your winning attack."},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"43. The Combat Math Rule"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Before every major attack, calculate three numbers:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Cloud's current power"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Commander damage already dealt"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Damage after double strike/doubling effects"},{"insert":"\nDo this "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"before"},{"insert":" declaring attackers.\nWith Lightning, Embercleave, Akroma's Will and huge Equipment bonuses, damage can escalate dramatically.\nDo not discover after combat that you had lethal and missed it.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"44. The Extra-Combat Rule"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Whenever you create another combat, ask:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"What triggers again?"},{"insert":"\nPotentially:\nCloud"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Aurelia-related effects"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Armored Skyhunter"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Sword of Feast and Famine"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Reaver Cleaver"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Buster Sword"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Lightning"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"other attack/combat-damage triggers"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"An extra combat isn't merely extra damage.\nIt is another activation of much of your deck.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"45. Recovery After Cloud Dies"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Do not panic.\nYour Equipment generally remains.\nRebuild using:\nForge Anew"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Red XIII"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Stoneforge Mystic"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Equipment tutors"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"your surviving draw engines"},{"attributes":{"indent":1,"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Then recast Cloud.\nHis ETB immediately attaches one surviving Equipment.\nCloud is unusually good at rebuilding after creature removal because his weapons remain behind.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"46. Tutor Decision Tree"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Whenever you draw an Equipment tutor, ask:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Can I kill someone now?"},{"insert":"\nIf yes, find the weapon that creates lethal.\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Can I establish an extra-combat engine?"},{"insert":"\nFind the missing piece.\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Am I short on mana?"},{"insert":"\nFind Sword of Feast and Famine, Sword of the Animist, or Reaver Cleaver as appropriate.\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Am I short on cards?"},{"insert":"\nFind Buster Sword or another value engine.\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Is Cloud vulnerable?"},{"insert":"\nFind protection.\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Do I merely need raw damage?"},{"insert":"\nFind Hammer, Blackblade, Excalibur or the appropriate offensive Equipment.\nNever tutor on autopilot.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"47. Common Pilot Errors"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Casting Cloud onto an empty battlefield"},{"insert":"\nSet up Equipment first.\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Putting every Equipment on Cloud"},{"insert":"\nCloud rewards multiple "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"equipped attackers"},{"insert":".\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Ignoring the 7-power breakpoint"},{"insert":"\nTwo Treasures per attack matters enormously.\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Spending protection too early"},{"insert":"\nProtect winning positions, not merely convenient ones.\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Treating extra combats as only extra damage"},{"insert":"\nThey retrigger your engines.\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Paying enormous equip costs fairly"},{"insert":"\nUse Cloud, Sigarda's Aid, Hammer of Nazahn, Puresteel and other attachment cheats.\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Forgetting commander damage"},{"insert":"\nTrack 21 separately for each opponent.\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Continuing to build after lethal exists"},{"insert":"\nKill them.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"48. The Five Questions Every Turn"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Ask:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"1. Can another player win before my next turn?"},{"insert":"\nPreserve interaction if necessary.\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"2. Can Cloud safely attack?"},{"insert":"\nIf yes, calculate your triggers before committing resources.\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"3. Can Cloud reach 7 power?"},{"insert":"\nIf yes, account for the additional Treasure.\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"4. Can an extra combat create lethal?"},{"insert":"\nCount every repeated attack and damage trigger.\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"5. Should my Equipment be concentrated or distributed?"},{"insert":"\nChoose between Voltron and equipped-army mode according to the battlefield.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"49. Pilot's Quick Reference"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Early Game"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Ramp → draw engine/tutor → deploy Equipment."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Cloud Turn"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Equipment already present → cast Cloud → free attachment → attack immediately."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Midgame"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Draw from attacks → generate Treasure → distribute Equipment → hold protection."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Closing"},{"insert":"\nLook for:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Aggravated Assault"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Sword of Feast and Famine"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Aurelia"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Helm of the Host"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Lightning"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Akroma's Will"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Commander damage"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"When Behind"},{"insert":"\nPreserve Equipment.\nRebuild creatures.\nRecast Cloud.\nHis ETB gets you armed again immediately.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"50. Final Doctrine"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"This deck does not merely make Cloud large.\nIt turns "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"combat into an economy"},{"insert":".\nEquipment creates power.\nPower gets Cloud above seven.\nCloud attacks.\nAttacks draw cards.\nCloud creates Treasure.\nEquipment creates combat-damage triggers.\nThose resources fund additional weapons.\nThose weapons arm additional attackers.\nAdditional attackers make Cloud draw more cards.\nThen extra-combat effects cause the entire machine to trigger again.\n\nThe central lesson is therefore:\n\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Prepare before Cloud arrives."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Reach seven power."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Attack for resources, not merely damage."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Spread weapons when doing so increases Cloud's draw."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Concentrate them when commander damage becomes lethal."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Protect the attack that matters."},{"insert":"\n\nAnd when Sword of Feast and Famine, Aggravated Assault, Aurelia, Lightning, or another finisher opens the path:\n\n"},{"attributes":{"underline":true,"italic":true,"bold":true},"insert":"Do not take one combat when the deck can take them all!"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"}]}