Are sideboards allowed in commander?

Are Sideboards Allowed in Commander?

The Commander format is a popular and unique way to play Magic: The Gathering, allowing players to build decks around a specific legendary creature known as the "Commander." One of the most common questions about Commander is whether sideboards are allowed in the format. In this article, we’ll explore the answer to this question and provide some additional information about the Commander format.

Direct Answer: No, Sideboards are Not Allowed in Commander

The short answer is no, sideboards are not allowed in Commander. The Commander format does not use a sideboard, and cards that take other cards from outside the game (such as Wishes) must be discussed with the playgroup before being put in the deck.

Why No Sideboards?

There are a few reasons why sideboards are not allowed in Commander. One reason is that the format is designed to be a more casual and social way to play Magic, and sideboards can add a level of complexity and competitiveness to the game. Additionally, the Commander format is meant to be a more narrative-driven format, where players build decks around a specific theme or strategy, rather than trying to build a deck that can adapt to different situations.

What About Companion Cards?

Companion cards are a new type of card that was introduced in the Commander 2020 set. These cards can be added to a player’s deck and provide a unique ability or effect. While companion cards are not the same as sideboards, they do provide a way for players to add new cards to their deck and adapt to different situations. However, companion cards are still subject to the same rules as regular cards in the Commander format, and players must follow the same guidelines for building and playing with them.

What About Banned and Restricted Cards?

The Commander format has its own set of banned and restricted cards, which are cards that are not allowed in the format due to their power level or ability to disrupt the game. These cards are typically banned or restricted because they can make the game too easy or too difficult for players, or because they can create an unfair advantage. Players must follow the same guidelines for banned and restricted cards in the Commander format as they do in other formats, and must not include these cards in their decks.

Conclusion

In conclusion, sideboards are not allowed in the Commander format. The format is designed to be a more casual and social way to play Magic, and sideboards can add a level of complexity and competitiveness to the game. While companion cards provide a way for players to add new cards to their deck and adapt to different situations, they are still subject to the same rules as regular cards in the format. By following the guidelines for building and playing with companion cards, players can ensure that they are playing the game in a way that is fun and fair for everyone involved.

Additional Resources

• Commander Format Rules: The official rules for the Commander format can be found on the Magic: The Gathering website.
• Commander Format FAQs: The Commander format FAQs provide additional information and answers to common questions about the format.
• Commander Format Banned and Restricted List: The banned and restricted list for the Commander format can be found on the Magic: The Gathering website.

Table: Commander Format Rules

Bullets List: Benefits of the Commander Format

• Casual and social: The Commander format is designed to be a more casual and social way to play Magic, allowing players to build decks around a specific theme or strategy.
• Unique gameplay: The Commander format provides a unique gameplay experience, with players building decks around a specific Commander and using companion cards to adapt to different situations.
• No sideboards: The lack of sideboards means that players must build their decks carefully and strategically, without the ability to adapt to different situations during the game.
• Banned and restricted cards: The Commander format has its own set of banned and restricted cards, which helps to ensure that the game is fair and balanced for all players.