Does MTG have a hand limit?
In Magic: The Gathering, each player has a maximum hand size of seven cards. This is mentioned in the official rulebook, specifically in rule 402.2: "Each player has a maximum hand size, which is normally seven cards." A player’s hand is their hidden collection of cards that they can use to play spells, creatures, and other game objects.
What happens when you exceed the hand size limit?
When a player’s hand size exceeds seven cards, they must discard excess cards at the end of their turn, as part of the cleanup step. This is a crucial step in the game, where players get rid of cards that are no longer useful or needed.
Exception: Cards that change hand size
There are a few cards in Magic that allow players to exceed the usual hand size limit or provide other hand-related benefits. These cards are typically enchantments or auras that modify the player’s hand size. For example:
- Anvil of Bogardan: This card allows each player to have an infinite maximum hand size. However, the card also has the caveat that players must discard at the end of their turn, so it’s more of a temporary reprieve than a permanent change.
Commander: Unlimited hand size?
In Commander, a variant format of Magic, players typically start with a life total of 40 and have a hand size limit of 60 cards. This is much more generous than the usual hand size limit, and is intended to encourage players to focus on building complex decks that can execute a wide range of strategies.
Benefits of a hand size limit
The hand size limit in Magic serves several purposes:
- Prevents overwhelming the game: If players could hold an infinite number of cards in their hand, the game could become overwhelming and unwinnable. The hand size limit helps to keep the game balanced and prevent excessive card advantage.
- Encourages deckbuilding: The hand size limit forces players to think carefully about the cards they include in their deck, as they need to consider the cards they’ll actually want to play in their hand.
- Maintains game pace: By requiring players to discard excess cards, the hand size limit helps to maintain a brisk pace of play, rather than allowing players to stew in a massive hand.
Conclusion
In Magic: The Gathering, each player has a maximum hand size of seven cards, with exceptions provided by certain cards and the Commander format. The hand size limit serves several important purposes, including preventing overwhelming, encouraging deckbuilding, and maintaining game pace. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, understanding the hand size limit is essential to enjoying the game.