Akiri, Line-Slinger

Akiri, Line-Slinger was released in 2016 as part of the Commander 2016 expansion, a set specifically designed for the multiplayer Commander format. The card was created as one of the cycle of four-color legendary creatures, introducing the partner mechanic which allows players to utilize two commanders simultaneously if both possess the ability. This design choice was intended to increase deck-building flexibility and offer players more strategic variety within the color identity rules of the format.

The artwork was provided by David Gaillet, who depicted Akiri as a Kor scout utilizing a grapnel line to navigate the vertical terrain of Zendikar. The design emphasizes her role as a swift, equipment-focused tactician, with her power scaling based on the number of artifacts the player controls. Upon its release, the card was well-received by the community for enabling aggressive equipment-themed strategies and providing a distinct, low-cost option for multi-colored commander decks.