How Expensive Are Modern Decks?
When it comes to Magic: The Gathering, the cost of a modern deck can be a significant factor for many players. With so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to determine which cards will break the bank and which ones won’t. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the costs associated with modern decks and explore some tips for building a deck without breaking the bank.
Modern Deck Prices: An Overview
Modern decks can range in price from around $500 to over $2,000, depending on the cards and components used. Rakdos Scam, for example, is a popular deck in modern that typically costs around $1,000. Burn decks, on the other hand, can be built for significantly less, around $300-$500. Azorius Control decks can also be built on a budget, with costs ranging from $500-$800.
What Factors Affect Modern Deck Prices?
There are several factors that can impact the cost of a modern deck, including:
• Fetchlands: Cards like Misty Rainforest, Polluted Delta, and Steam Vents are extremely rare and highly sought after. As a result, they can drive up the cost of a deck significantly.
• Rares and Mythics: Cards with a higher rarity, such as rares and mythics, tend to be more expensive than commons and uncommons.
• Availability: Cards that are harder to find or out of print can drive up their price.
• Demand: Decks that are currently popular or winning tournaments tend to have a higher demand, which can drive up their price.
• Builder’s Reputation: Deck builders who have a good reputation or have built winning decks in the past can charge more for their work.
How to Build a Modern Deck on a Budget
While it can be challenging to build a modern deck on a budget, there are several ways to do it:
• Focus on Commons and Uncommons: Cards that are less rare tend to be cheaper and can be used to build a deck without breaking the bank.
• Look for In-Print Cards: Cards that are currently in print are often cheaper than older, out-of-print cards.
• Trade or Buy Second-Hand: Trading or buying second-hand cards can help reduce costs.
• Consider Proxying: Proxying, or using non-legal cards, can be a cost-effective way to build a deck.
Some Examples of Affordable Modern Decks
Here are a few examples of affordable modern decks:
• Burn: Burn decks are typically built around 20-25 cards, including common and uncommon creatures, lands, and spells. With a total cost of around $300-$500, Burn decks are a great option for players on a budget.
• Azorius Control: Azorius Control decks can be built around 40-45 cards, including rare and mythic spells. With a total cost of around $500-$800, these decks are a good option for players who want to build a more competitive deck without breaking the bank.
Modern Deck Costs in Comparison
Here’s a comparison of the costs of different modern decks:
| Deck Name | Cost | Cards (approx.) | Rarity (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Burn | $300-$500 | 20-25 | C/U |
| Azorius Control | $500-$800 | 40-45 | R/M |
| Rakdos Scam | $1,000 | 60+ | R/M |
| Izzet Phoenix | $800-$1,200 | 40-50 | R/M |
| Mono-Red Prison | $600-$900 | 30-35 | C/U |
Conclusion
Modern decks can be expensive, but it’s not impossible to build a competitive deck on a budget. By focusing on commons and uncommons, looking for in-print cards, trading or buying second-hand, and considering proxying, players can build a modern deck without breaking the bank. Additionally, decks like Burn and Azorius Control are affordable options for players who want to build a competitive deck without spending too much money.