The Convention EnthusiastHow it works & interactions with other cards

Breaking the Fourth Wall

The first ability of The Convention Enthusiast allows you to include cards from any game in your deck, provided they can be 'reasonably translated' into Magic. This is a unique static ability that functions during deck construction. Since the card states these outside cards fit within the Commander's color identity, you do not need to worry about color identity violations for these non-Magic cards. However, players should discuss with their playgroup how to translate foreign mechanics like 'Health' to 'Life' or 'Energy' to 'Mana' before the game begins.

Generating Resources

The second ability is an activated ability that costs one generic mana. When it resolves, you create one resource of any type. This is incredibly flexible; while it can create one mana of any color, it can also create other game-specific resources like Energy, Treasure tokens, or even resources specific to the 'translated' cards you have included in your deck. Since this ability does not have a tap symbol, you can use it multiple times in a single turn as long as you can pay the mana cost.

Resolution and Timing

Step 1: Pay one mana of any type to activate the ability. Step 2: The ability goes on the stack and can be responded to. Step 3: Upon resolution, you choose the type of resource you are creating. If you choose mana, it is added to your mana pool. If you choose a physical token resource like a Treasure, you place that token on the battlefield. Because the ability generates a resource, it is a powerful tool for fixing your mana or enabling niche mechanics from other games.

Common Pitfalls

A common mistake is assuming the translation ability works if The Convention Enthusiast is in the 99 of your deck; the card specifically states it must be your commander for that effect to apply. Additionally, remember that while you can create 'any resource,' the resource created must still be legal within the context of the game state or the translated rules you are using. You cannot create a resource that has no functional definition in the current game.

Interaction examples

Automating Land Drops

Solemn Simulacrum

With The Convention Enthusiast on the battlefield, you can use its activated ability to generate the specific mana colors needed to cast Solemn Simulacrum. Once Solemn Simulacrum enters the battlefield, its triggered ability lets you search for a basic land, further accelerating your mana base. If you lack the specific colors for the Golem, the Enthusiast ensures you can always pay for it using any generic mana you have available.

Doubling Enthusiastic Triggers

Roaming Throne

When Roaming Throne enters, you should choose 'Human' or 'Gamer' to match The Convention Enthusiast. While the Enthusiast's activated ability isn't a triggered ability, any 'translated' cards from other games that have triggered abilities will trigger twice if they share a type with the Throne. This allows for massive value when combining non-Magic cards with traditional Magic support pieces.