Overview:

Rhys the Redeemed helms an elf-token strategy focused on exponential token generation through tribal synergies and doubling effects. The deck combines wide board states with anthem effects and overrun finishers, supported by two infinite token combos (Earthcraft/Squirrel Nest and Staff of Domination/Elfball mana). While capable of explosive turns, it lacks cEDH-level consistency/protection.

Primer:

Core Strategy: This deck aims to flood the board with elf tokens using Rhys' doubling ability and tribal enablers like Elvish Archdruid, then convert them into either combat overkill via Overwhelming Stampede or infinite mill through Altar of Dementia. The plan progresses through three phases:

1. Early Ramp: Deploy 1-2 mana dorks (Llanowar Elves, Heritage Druid) to accelerate into Rhys activation thresholds.
2. Token Multiplication: Use parallel engines - elf tribal generators (Imperious Perfect) vs. standalone token makers (Avenger of Zendikar). Prioritize Earthcraft/Squirrel Nest combo setup.
3. Win Conversion: Either alpha strike with anthem-backed tokens (Elesh Norn, Mirari's Wake) or assemble infinite creatures via:
   • T3: Forest, Squirrel Nest on land
   • T4: Earthcraft + tap squirrel to untap enchanted land = infinite tokens
   • Sac to Altar for instant mill win

Mulligan Priorities:

• Keep hands with 2+ mana sources including green
• Prioritize 1-2 cmc ramp elves over land-heavy hands
• Combo pieces (Earthcraft/Squirrel Nest) only worth keeping with protection

Key Tips:

• Sequence anthem effects after token generation - Wilt-Leaf Liege before Rhys activation
• Use Dauntless Escort proactively before wraths
• Staff of Domination goes infinite with 5+ elves under Priest of Titania

Avoid Traps:

• Overextending into wraths without Eldrazi Monument
• Holding back combo pieces without protection

Weaknesses:

Critical:

• No free counterspells to protect combos
• Relies on easily removed combo enablers (0 protection for Earthcraft/Squirrel Nest)

Moderate:

• Slow recovery from board wipes
• Limited redundancy for key combo pieces

Minor:

• Vulnerable to graveyard hate (affects Sun Titan/Eternal Witness)

Most Important Cards:

• Earthcraft
• Squirrel Nest
• Staff of Domination
• Priest of Titania
• Elvish Archdruid
• Skullclamp
• Aura Shards
• Ezuri, Renegade Leader
• Overwhelming Stampede
• Altar of Dementia

Attribute Ratings:

Speed: 6/10

• Goldfish T4 win possible with perfect Earthcraft/Squirrel Nest draw
• Typical combat wins T7-9 via token scaling

Resilience: 4/10

• Minimal stack interaction (only 5 instant-speed answers)
• Relies on board presence for protection (Dauntless Escort)

Consistency: 5/10

• 3 tutors (Fierce Empath, Eternal Witness, Sun Titan) but none fetch key enchantments
• Strong draw in late game (Slate of Ancestry, Harmonize)

Interaction: 5/10

• 7 targeted removal (Swords, Path, etc)
• 3 board wipes
• Aura Shards provides repeatable artifact/enchantment hate

Rating Justification:

The deck sits between Optimized Casual (5.0) and Focused (6.0). It has:

• Faster than Precon speed (T4 potential vs T10-12)
• Better interaction suite than casual (10+ answers)
• cEDH exclusion factors: No free counters, slow tutors, fragile combos

Power level: 5.5 - 6.0