Are Commander Decks 100 Cards or 101?
In the world of Magic: The Gathering, Commander is a popular format that allows players to build and play custom decks around a specific general, known as the "Commander." One common question that arises is: are Commander decks 100 cards or 101?
The Direct Answer
According to the official rules of Magic: The Gathering, a Commander deck must contain exactly 100 cards, including the Commander. This means that the minimum and maximum deck size for Commander is 100 cards. Any deck that exceeds or falls short of this limit is not considered a valid Commander deck.
Breaking it Down
Let’s break down the rules to clarify the exact requirements:
- Commander: A Commander deck must include one (and only one) Commander card, which is a specific general that serves as the deck’s leader.
- Cards: A Commander deck must contain a total of 100 cards, including the Commander card.
- Singleton and Color Identity: Each card in the deck, excluding basic lands, must be a singleton (i.e., only one copy of each card). Additionally, the deck must adhere to color identity rules, meaning that the deck’s mana base and card choices must be consistent with the colors of the Commander.
Key Takeaways
- A Commander deck must be exactly 100 cards in size, including the Commander card.
- The Commander card is the only exception to the singleton rule, as you can have multiple copies of this card in your deck.
- The deck must adhere to color identity rules to ensure consistency and balance.
Ramp and Planeswalkers
When building a Commander deck, players often wonder how many ramp cards or planeswalkers they can include. While there is no strict limit on the number of these cards, it’s essential to remember that the goal is to create a well-rounded and balanced deck. Here are some general guidelines:
- Ramp: Aim for 8-10 ramp cards in your deck to help accelerate your mana development and draw you cards.
- Planeswalkers: There is no limit to the number of planeswalkers you can include, as long as you abide by the singleton and color identity rules.
Exception: Rule 0
In some cases, players may want to build decks that break the traditional rules of Commander. This can include using banned cards or creating custom mechanics that aren’t officially recognized. When building these decks, it’s essential to work with your playgroup and local game store to ensure that the deck is acceptable and fun for everyone involved. These decks are often referred to as Rule 0 decks, and they require permission from the table to be played.
Conclusion
In summary, a Commander deck must be exactly 100 cards in size, including the Commander card. While there are no strict limits on the number of ramp cards or planeswalkers you can include, it’s essential to remember the goal of creating a well-rounded and balanced deck. Remember to abide by the singleton and color identity rules to ensure that your deck is competitive and fun to play. Happy building!