How Many Cards are Legal in Commander MTG?
In Magic: The Gathering’s (MTG) Commander format, deck construction rules govern the number of cards a player can include in their deck. The format allows for a unique and fun way to play with a collection of cards, but can be confusing for new players. In this article, we’ll explore the rules governing the number of cards allowed in a Commander deck, and provide some tips on how to build a successful deck.
The Simple Answer
The simple answer to the question "how many cards are legal in Commander MTG?" is 100 cards. This includes the Commander itself, which is a single card, and 99 other cards of your choice.
Deck Construction Rules
The Commander deck construction rules are outlined in the Commander Rules page on the official MTG website. The rules specify that each deck must contain exactly 100 cards, including the Commander. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
• Commander: A Commander deck must include one Commander card, which is a unique card that represents the player’s general. The Commander is a part of the deck and must be included in the deck’s total card count of 100.
• Other Cards: The remaining 99 cards in the deck can be any type of Magic card, including creatures, spells, planeswalkers, and lands.
• No Duplication: Each card can only be included once in the deck, with the exception of basic lands.
What’s Not Allowed
While the Commander format allows for a wide range of cards, there are some restrictions on what you can include in your deck. Here are some important things to keep in mind:
• Silver Borders: Cards with silver borders, such as those from the Unstable set, are not allowed in Commander decks.
• Gold Borders: Cards with gold borders, such as those from the From the Vault series, are not allowed in Commander decks.
• Acorn-Shaped Stamps: Cards with acorn-shaped security stamps, such as those from the Warhammer 40k set, are not allowed in Commander decks.
• Banned Cards: Certain cards have been banned from play in the Commander format. This includes cards that are overpowered or unbalanced, and cards that create unfair game states.
Building Your Deck
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s talk about how to build a successful Commander deck. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
• Choose Your Commander Wisely: Select a Commander that fits with your playstyle and deck theme. This will help you build a cohesive and effective deck.
• Focus on a Theme: Commander decks can be very thematic, so focus on a specific theme or idea and build your deck around it.
• Balance Your Deck: Make sure your deck has a balance of creatures, spells, and lands. This will help you maintain a strong board presence and generate enough mana to cast your spells.
• Test Your Deck: Before playing a game, test your deck to make sure it’s well-tuned and effective. This will help you identify any issues and make adjustments before the game starts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the number of cards allowed in a Commander deck is 100 cards, including the Commander itself and 99 other cards of your choice. By understanding the deck construction rules and building a well-tuned deck, you can create a successful Commander deck that dominates the competition. Remember to choose your Commander wisely, focus on a theme, balance your deck, and test your deck before playing. Happy gaming!