The Convincing General is one of those cards players keep asking about. Here is, in plain words, what its official text says, the rulings published by Wizards of the Coast, and the combos players actually run.
Official card text
Changeling (This card is every creature type.) As the game begins, if this creature is your commander, choose two creature types. For the rest of the game, treat those two types like they're the same among your creatures and creature cards everywhere.,
: Choose a creature type. Draw a card for each creature you control of that type.
Complete guide
The Convincing General is a five-color powerhouse that unites disparate tribes under a single banner. By treating two distinct creature types as one, it unlocks synergies that were previously impossible in Magic: The Gathering. As a Shapeshifter with Changeling, it naturally fits into any strategy while providing massive card advantage.
Unifying the Tribes
The core strength of The Convincing General lies in its 'as the game begins' ability. If it is your commander, you select two creature types (for example, Golem and Human). For the entire game, any effect that checks for one of those types will also see the other. This applies to cards in your hand, library, and graveyard, as well as creatures on the battlefield.
Activating the Strategy
The General's activated ability allows you to tap it and pay three mana to draw cards based on a chosen creature type. Because it has Changeling, it always counts as the chosen type. When combined with its unification ability, you can potentially draw cards for every creature you control if you choose one of your two unified types.
Resolution and Timing
First, the unification choice happens before the first turn begins; you cannot change these types later. Second, when you activate the draw ability, the game checks the number of creatures you control of the chosen type only as the ability resolves. If your creatures are removed in response, you will draw fewer cards.
Strategic Considerations
Common mistakes include forgetting that the unification effect only applies to 'your' cards and creatures. It does not affect your opponents' permanents. Additionally, the draw ability requires a tap, so giving The Convincing General haste or vigilance is highly recommended to maximize its utility.
Interaction examples
Solemn Simulacrum
Roaming ThroneIf you chose Golem as one of your unified types, Roaming Throne (a Golem) will recognize Solemn Simulacrum (also a Golem) as having the chosen type. If Solemn Simulacrum dies, Roaming Throne causes its 'draw a card' ability to trigger an additional time, resulting in two cards drawn.
With both creatures on the battlefield, you activate The Convincing General's ability and choose 'Golem'. Since the General has Changeling, it is a Golem. Solemn Simulacrum is also a Golem. You will draw two cards: one for the General and one for the Simulacrum.
If you choose 'Golem' and 'Human' at the start of the game, any card in your library that searches for a Human can now find Roaming Throne, because the game treats Golem and Human as the same type for your cards in all zones.
Guide written with AI from the official text and rulings. Official English text prevails.
How it works : The Convincing General
Original English text — Wizards of the Coast / Scryfall
No additional ruling has been published for this card.
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