Can I use a Commander deck to play Standard?
The eternal question that has puzzled Magic: The Gathering enthusiasts for ages. Commander and Standard are two formats that operate under different rules and objectives, making it seem unlikely that a Commander deck would be suitable for Standard play. But can you indeed use a Commander deck to play Standard?
What’s the Big Reason for Standard?
The reason why Commander decks can’t be used in Standard lies in the definition of Standard itself. Standard specifically excludes cards from Commander, which are from supplemental sets. Commander sets, like Commander Legends: Battle for Baldur’s Gate, are designed for their own unique playstyle and aren’t compatible with Standard. This exclusion is done to manage power creep, where too many strong cards would disrupt the game’s balance and make it unplayable.
Key Differences between Commander and Standard
- Number of cards allowed: Commander decks must have exactly 100 cards, including the commander. Standard decks have a maximum of 60 cards.
- Card restrictions: Commander decks can have any card printed in Magic’s history, while Standard decks are restricted to a specific pool of cards defined by the Standard format’s ban list and the last two sets in the game’s rotation.
- Objective: Commander is focused on multiplayer interactions and individual strategy, whereas Standard is about competitive, competitive play against a single opponent.
Can I Play Commander Cards in Standard?
While Commander cards can’t be played in Standard due to their inclusion in supplemental sets, there are a few scenarios where you can include Commander cards in your Standard deck:
- Planewalker cards: Some Planeswalker cards are printed in both Commander and Standard, allowing you to include them in your Standard deck. These cards will follow the Standard format’s rules.
- Rares and Mythics from Commander sets: If you have cards from Commander sets that have been reprinted in standard-legal sets (e.g., a Mythic rare from a Commander set was reprinted in a future Standard-legal set), you can include those in your Standard deck.
Edgar’s Banned in Commander (But What About Standard?)
- Edgar Markov: This particular Commander card is banned only in the Commander format, not in Standard. This means you can include it in your Standard deck without any restrictions.
- Edric, Spymaster of Trest: Another Commander card that’s banned only in Commander, leaving it free for Standard play.
The Verdict
To summarize:
- Commander cards are not designed for Standard play due to their inclusion in supplemental sets.
- Some Commander cards can be played in Standard, depending on their origins and Standard format’s ban list.
- Planewalker cards and reprinted rares/mythics from Commander sets can be included in your Standard deck.
So, while Commander decks might not be suitable for Standard play, some Commander cards can be integrated into your Standard deck with careful selection. Remember to always follow the Standard format’s rules and ban list to ensure a balanced and enjoyable experience.