This can be highly effective in any Commander game, and all experienced Commander players know how dangerous artifact-themed decks or +1/+1 counter-based decks can be - and Optimus Prime's deck is both. Optimus Prime, Hero and his Jeskai-colored Autobot friends generally have the same theme, using and removing +1/+1 counters to get stronger or utilize extra effects like dealing direct damage or even generating extra mana. Optimus Prime's deck ranks somewhat modestly on at #529, meaning it's strong enough to be a viable and effective pick but rare enough to take most Commander players by surprise. This, combined with +1/+1 counters to boost Optimus Prime's team, pushes Optimus Prime, Hero over the top as a highly synergistic, flexible three-color Commander that no one ever sees coming until it's too late. All of the Transformer creatures are artifact creatures, so they benefit hugely from countless artifact-themed cards, including many blue cards. Optimus Prime, Hero also taps into MTG's notorious subthemes of artifacts and +1/+1 counters, both of which can take over a game if left unchecked. Optimus Prime, Hero can even be cast transformed if players wish, making the card just as flexible as a true Transformer.

Optimus Prime, Hero resists effects like board wipes and combat damage, returning transformed as Optimus Prime, Autobot leader to stay in the fight. Optimus Prime, Hero is one of the rare legends that can bring itself back to life when destroyed, meaning exile is one of the few ways to get rid of it completely. Optimus Prime, Hero is one of the Universes Beyond project's most potent Commander cards thanks to its strong artifact synergy and inability to die.

Mtg shroud cards