Upgrading the Witherbloom Precon with Gorma, the Gullet: A $10 Transformation

In this article, we delve into the Witherbloom Pestilence preconstructed deck and explore how a simple $10 upgrade using Gorma, the Gullet can transform your gameplay experience. The original deck, focused on Sacrifice and Lifegain, features a strong synergy between these two mechanics, with cards like Blood Artist and Moldervine Reclamation leading the charge.

However, by swapping the face commander Dina, Essence Brewer for the adorable Gorma, the Gullet, we can take a different approach. Gorma rewards players for sacrificing creatures, growing larger with each sacrifice and providing a unique twist to the deck's strategy.

The Precon Overview#

The Witherbloom Pestilence deck is well-constructed, featuring a solid mix of sacrifice outlets, fodder, and payoffs. It boasts 20 cards dedicated to sacrificing, including 16 outlets and 4 self-sacrificing cards. The lifegain theme is equally robust, with 21 cards that gain life, many of which synergize with the sacrifice mechanic.

The Good and the Bad#

While the deck is consistent and features high-quality cards, the manabase leaves something to be desired with only 37 lands. This can lead to slow gameplay despite the deck's strong draw potential.

Embracing Gorma#

Switching to Gorma, the Gullet opens up new strategies. Gorma can grow your creatures and has lifelink, making him a formidable presence on the battlefield. The ability to generate +1/+1 counters allows for various synergies, including infinite combos with persist creatures like Putrid Goblin.

$10 Upgrade Paths#

I propose two upgrade paths: one that includes infinite combos and one that avoids them. The combo path is more powerful but may not suit everyone’s playstyle.

Combo Upgrades:

1. Add persist creatures like Putrid Goblin for infinite combos.
2. Include Sifter of Skulls for token generation.
3. Enhance the deck with finishers like Feral Ghoul and Jarad, Golgari Lich Lord.
4. Improve ramp and draw with cards like The Gitrog, Ravenous Ride.
5. Add interaction with Rise of the Witch-King and Desperate Plea.
6. Include basic lands to improve the manabase.

Non-Combo Upgrades: Replace persist creatures with alternatives that enhance gameplay without infinite combos. Cards like Nested Shambler and Accomplished Alchemist can fit well in this strategy.

Overall, the Witherbloom Pestilence precon can be significantly enhanced with just a small investment, allowing players to explore new strategies while maintaining the core themes of the deck.