Lotho, Corrupt Shirriff — Magic: The Gathering card

Lotho, Corrupt Shirriff

{W}{B}
Legendary Creature — Halfling Rogue

Whenever a player casts their second spell each turn, you lose 1 life and create a Treasure token. (It's an artifact with "{T}, Sacrifice this token: Add one mana of any color.")

*"Whatever is wrong in the Shire, Lotho will be at the bottom of it: you can be sure of that."

—Pippin*

Power/Toughness: 2/1

Set The Lord of the Rings: Tales of Middle-earth
Rarity Rare
Mana Value 2
Artist Ilker Yildiz
Collector # 213
Scryfall

Why Play Lotho, Corrupt Shirriff

A two-mana value engine that punishes opponents for playing multiple spells per turn while generating treasure tokens for ramp and fixing. The life loss is minimal compared to the mana advantage gained, especially in multiplayer formats where multiple opponents trigger the ability frequently. Best suited for midrange and control decks that can afford the gradual life loss in exchange for consistent mana acceleration and the ability to cast bigger threats ahead of schedule.

Format Notes

Strongest in Commander where multiple opponents naturally cast second spells each turn cycle, creating substantial treasure accumulation over the course of longer games. Sees occasional play in Historic and Modern sideboards against spell-heavy matchups, though the competitive impact is limited by the symmetrical nature requiring opponents to cast multiple spells. The life loss becomes more relevant in faster formats but the treasure generation can still enable powerful late-game plays.

Combos & Synergies

Pairs excellently with Revel in Riches as an alternate win condition, turning accumulated treasures into a victory threat opponents must respect. Works well alongside Marionette Master to convert treasure tokens into direct damage, creating pressure while ramping. Academy Manufactor triples the value by turning each treasure trigger into three different artifact tokens, dramatically accelerating both mana development and board presence.

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Creature Token Modern Commander Legacy