How To Build A Commander Deck

So, you want to build a Commander deck? Awesome! Welcome to the most popular and arguably the most fun format in Magic: The Gathering. Commander, also known as EDH (Elder Dragon Highlander), is all about epic multiplayer battles, creative deck building, and telling a story with your cards. Forget cutthroat tournament play; this is about showcasing powerful cards and creating memorable moments with your friends (and maybe crushing them… just a little).

But where do you even begin? With thousands of cards to choose from, the prospect can seem daunting. Fear not! This guide will break down the basics and get you on your way to building a deck that's both fun and effective.

Why build a Commander deck? The purpose is simple: to have a blast! Commander offers a unique blend of strategy, interaction, and replayability. Each game is different, shaped by the cards you and your opponents play. You'll experience massive creatures, intricate combos, and dramatic swings in power. The biggest benefit? It's a fantastic way to express your creativity and play style. Unlike some formats that prioritize speed and efficiency above all else, Commander rewards creativity, synergy, and a healthy dose of shenanigans.

First, choose your Commander. This is the legendary creature that sits in the "command zone" and sets the color identity for your deck. This means you can only include cards that share a color with your Commander. For example, if your Commander is a Blue/White creature, you can only use Blue, White, and colorless cards in your deck. Pick a Commander that excites you! Do you like drawing cards? Choose a Commander that helps you draw. Do you like attacking with giant creatures? Find a Commander that supports that strategy.

Next, consider the mana base. You need to be able to reliably cast your spells, so include plenty of lands. A good starting point is around 35-40 lands, but you can adjust this based on the mana cost of your cards. Include lands that produce multiple colors of mana, like dual lands and fetch lands, to ensure you can cast spells of all your colors.

After lands, start adding staples. These are cards that are generally good in Commander, regardless of your specific strategy. Think about cards that provide card draw, ramp (mana acceleration), and removal (ways to get rid of your opponents' threats). Some examples include Sol Ring (ramp), Swords to Plowshares (removal), and Rhystic Study (card draw – prepare for groans from your opponents!).

Finally, flesh out your deck with cards that support your Commander's strategy. This is where the real fun begins! Look for cards that synergize with your Commander's abilities or that help you achieve your desired win condition. For instance, if your Commander is a token generator, include cards that buff your tokens or generate even more tokens.

Remember, building a Commander deck is an ongoing process. Don't be afraid to experiment, try new cards, and refine your deck over time. Playtest it with your friends, see what works and what doesn't, and have fun! Commander is a format that celebrates creativity and self-expression. So, go out there, brew up something awesome, and unleash your deck on the unsuspecting masses!