The Eldrazi in Magic: The Gathering (MTG) are among the game’s most intriguing and menacing villains, characterized by their bizarre forms, inscrutable goals, and abundance of tentacles. These cosmic horrors are essentially the Elder Gods of the MTG multiverse, interdimensional beings that traverse from plane to plane, absorbing mana and causing destruction.
Originating from the space between planes known as the Blind Eternities, the Eldrazi do not possess a physical form in the traditional sense. However, when they manifest on a plane, they appear as colossal titans with tentacle-laden lower bodies, alongside swarms of lesser Eldrazi minions.
The Eldrazi Titans — Ulamog, Kozilek, and Emrakul — are the progenitors of these minions and are distinguished by their unique appearances and devastating powers. Ulamog and his brood are known for their destructive capabilities, annihilating all forms of matter and spawning plagues. Kozilek, with a more humanoid appearance but lacking a head, specializes in warping reality and perception. Emrakul, resembling a tentacled fungal or jellyfish entity, causes mutations and corruption in living matter.
The Story of the Eldrazi
The story of the Eldrazi in Magic: The Gathering is a rich and complex narrative filled with cosmic scale, betrayal, and battle for survival. Initially, the Eldrazi were bound to the plane of Zendikar by three Planeswalkers: Sorin Markov, Nahiri, and Ugin, using a network of hedrons to trap them in a state of dormancy. This precarious prison lasted for thousands of years, but the Eldrazi’s near escape once indicated the fragile nature of their containment. Despite Nahiri’s efforts to reinforce the prison alone after Sorin and Ugin did not return to assist, the Eldrazi’s presence continued to loom ominously over Zendikar.
The catalyst for the Eldrazi’s eventual escape was the unintended consequence of actions taken by Nicol Bolas, who manipulated other Planeswalkers into activating the Eye of Ugin, thereby loosening the Eldrazi’s bonds. Sorin and Nissa Revane made an effort to reseal the prison, but Nissa’s decision to release the Eldrazi, motivated by the conviction that doing so would ultimately save Zendikar, resulted in the full release of the titans. Once free, the Eldrazi began to feed and regain their strength, spreading destruction across Zendikar.
As the Eldrazi spread their devastation, Gideon Jura arrived on Zendikar, quickly realizing the magnitude of the threat they posed. After witnessing the destruction firsthand and understanding that he could not face the Eldrazi alone, Gideon sought reinforcements, rallying other Planeswalkers to the cause. This culminated in the formation of a coalition of Planeswalkers, including Jace Beleren, who played pivotal roles in the defense of Zendikar and in strategies aimed at countering the Eldrazi menace.
The battle against the Eldrazi was a turning point in the lore of Magic: The Gathering, highlighting not only the threat that these cosmic entities posed but also the resilience and unity of the Planeswalkers and the inhabitants of Zendikar. Despite immense losses, the coalition managed to devise a plan to trap Ulamog, one of the Eldrazi titans, using the network of hedrons to channel the energy of Zendikar’s leylines. This effort exemplified the combined strength and strategy of the Planeswalkers and marked a significant, though costly, victory against the Eldrazi threat.
The Best Eldrazi Cards in MTG
Eldrazi in Magic: The Gathering are notorious for their “Annihilator” ability, which forces opponents to sacrifice permanents whenever the creature attacks, even before they can block. This ability epitomizes the Eldrazi’s destructive nature and significantly disrupts opponents’ game plans. Additionally, the Eldrazi’s colorless nature allows them to fit into almost any deck, making them versatile threats in various game formats.
- Emrakul, the Aeons Torn – Known for granting an extra turn upon casting, having Annihilator 6, and being immune to spells.
- Ulamog, the Infinite Gyre – Indestructible, destroys a permanent upon casting, and features Annihilator 4.
- Kozilek, Butcher of Truth – Draws four cards upon entry and has Annihilator 4.
- Ulamog, the Ceaseless Hunger – Exiles two target permanents upon casting and mills twenty cards when attacking.
- Emrakul, the Promised End – Costs less for each card type in your graveyard and gives you control of your opponent’s next turn.
- Kozilek, the Great Distortion – Refills your hand upon casting and can counter spells by discarding a card with the same mana value.
- Void Winnower – Prevents opponents from casting spells with even mana costs and blocks creatures with even costs.
Final Thoughts
Eldrazi in Magic: The Gathering are cosmic entities with devastating abilities that can disrupt opponents’ gameplay significantly. Known for their “Annihilator” mechanic, they force sacrifices of permanents, making them a formidable presence on the battlefield. These colorless creatures can fit into almost any deck, offering versatility and power. Their impact in MTG lore and gameplay makes them both feared and revered by players.
