TCG Playability
Legendary Planeswalker — Garruk
+1: Destroy another target planeswalker. +1: Create a 3/3 black Beast creature token with deathtouch. −3: Destroy target creature. You gain life equal to its toughness. −8: Target opponent gets an emblem with "Whenever a creature attacks you, it gets +5/+5 and gains trample until end of turn."
This Legendary Planeswalker represents a versatile threat that fits seamlessly into midrange and control strategies across multiple formats. With a mana cost of five generic, one black, and one green, Garruk, Apex Predator demands a modest but meaningful commitment of resources while delivering immediate value upon entering the battlefield. The card's flexibility is its greatest strength, offering three distinct effects that address different game states and opponent threats. The first ability to destroy another planeswalker provides crucial removal against competing threats, while the second ability generates a 3/3 black Beast token with deathtouch, creating both a defensive wall and an offensive pressure piece that forces opponents into uncomfortable blocks. The third loyalty ability offers versatility in dealing with problematic creatures while functioning as incidental life gain, which scales dramatically against large threats and can swing the game's tempo significantly. This card excels in Golgari midrange decks, black-green control shells, and any strategy that values planeswalker versatility and creature token generation. The ultimate ability, while rarely achieved, provides a powerful finisher that punishes aggressive opponents. Its availability across nearly all competitive formats including Pioneer, Modern, and Commander makes it a format staple that appeals to players building serious competitive decks. Whether you're controlling the game's pace, generating value through tokens, or deploying a difficult-to-answer threat, Garruk rewards strategic depth and rewards players who understand when to prioritize each ability.
Illustrated by Tyler Jacobson