How many lands should you play Commander?

How Many Lands Should You Play Commander?

As a Commander player, one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is determining the right number of lands to include in your deck. The ideal land count can vary depending on several factors, including the average mana cost of your spells, the overall strategy of your deck, and the specific cards you’re playing. In this article, we’ll explore the general guidelines and considerations to help you determine the perfect land count for your Commander deck.

The Typical Land Count

According to Magic Data Science, the average land count in Commander decks is around 36 lands. This is based on an analysis of over 100,000 Commander decks on EDHREC. However, this number can vary depending on the specific deck and playstyle. For example, decks with a higher mana curve or those that rely heavily on ramp spells may require more lands.

Factors to Consider

When determining the right land count for your Commander deck, consider the following factors:

• Average mana cost of your spells: If your average spell cost is low (e.g., 2-3 mana), you may be able to get away with fewer lands. If your average spell cost is higher (e.g., 4-5 mana), you’ll likely need more lands to ensure consistent mana production.
• Ramp spells: Decks with ramp spells (e.g., Sol Ring, Cultivate) may be able to generate extra mana and reduce the need for additional lands.
• Landfall effects: Decks that rely on landfall effects (e.g., Simic Flash) may need more lands to trigger these effects.
• Deck strategy: Decks that focus on early-game aggression or disruption may require fewer lands, while decks that focus on mid-game ramp or card draw may need more lands.

General Guidelines

Here are some general guidelines to help you determine the right land count for your Commander deck:

• Average spell cost 2-3 mana: 32-35 lands
• Average spell cost 3-4 mana: 35-40 lands
• Average spell cost 4-5 mana: 40-45 lands
• Ramp-heavy decks: 35-40 lands
• Landfall-heavy decks: 40-45 lands

Calculating Your Land Count

If you’re unsure about the right land count for your deck, try using the following formula:

• Calculate the average mana cost of your spells
• Divide the average mana cost by 2 (to get the number of lands you’ll need to play consistently)
• Add 5-10 lands to account for variability and potential lands that won’t be used

For example, if your average spell cost is 3.5 mana, you would calculate your land count as follows:

• Average mana cost / 2 = 3.5 / 2 = 1.75
• Add 5-10 lands = 1.75 + 7.5 = 9.25 lands (round up to 10 lands)

Conclusion

Determining the right land count for your Commander deck can be a complex task, but by considering the factors mentioned above and following the general guidelines, you can create a well-rounded and consistent deck. Remember to adjust your land count based on your deck’s specific needs and playstyle. Happy brewing!