What Cards are Legal in Commander Format?
Commander is a popular Magic: The Gathering format that allows players to build decks around a specific legendary creature, known as the Commander. The format is known for its unique rules and restrictions, which aim to promote social interaction and fun gameplay. One of the most important aspects of Commander is the legality of cards, which can be a bit confusing for new players. In this article, we’ll explore what cards are legal in Commander format and provide some helpful tips and resources.
Long Answer:
In Commander, everything is legal except for Silver-bordered or Acorn cards, which are considered "joke cards" and are not meant to be played competitively. Additionally, cards that are specifically banned in Commander are not allowed in the format. This means that players can use cards from throughout Magic’s history, as long as they are not banned or Silver-bordered.
Unique Cards:
One of the unique aspects of Commander is the ability to play cards that are not legal in other formats. For example, cards like Relentless Rats and Rat Colony allow players to ignore the one-copy-per-deck rule, which can be a powerful advantage. However, players should be careful when using these cards, as they can quickly become overwhelming.
Banned Cards:
Some cards are specifically banned in Commander, which means they are not allowed in the format. This includes cards like Chaos Orb and Falling Star, which were banned due to their overpowered effects. Players should always check the Commander ban list before building their deck to ensure they are not using any banned cards.
Restricted Cards:
In addition to banned cards, some cards are restricted in Commander, which means they can only be played in a specific number of copies. For example, cards like Black Lotus and Mox Sapphire are restricted to one copy per deck. Players should be careful when using restricted cards, as they can quickly become too powerful.
Legal Cards:
So, what cards are legal in Commander format? The answer is simple: almost everything! With the exception of Silver-bordered or Acorn cards, and cards that are specifically banned or restricted, players can use any card from throughout Magic’s history. This means that players can build decks around their favorite cards and playstyles, as long as they follow the Commander rules.
Tips and Resources:
Here are some tips and resources to help players build their Commander decks:
- Check the Commander ban list: Before building your deck, make sure to check the Commander ban list to ensure you are not using any banned cards.
- Use card databases: Websites like Scryfall and Card Kingdom offer card databases that can help players find legal cards for their Commander decks.
- Read the Commander rules: The Commander rules are available on the official Magic: The Gathering website and provide detailed information on how to play the format.
- Join a Commander community: Joining a Commander community, such as the Commander subreddit, can be a great way to connect with other players and learn new strategies.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the legality of cards in Commander format can be a bit confusing, but it’s essential to understand the rules to build a competitive deck. By following the Commander ban list, using card databases, and reading the Commander rules, players can build decks that are legal and fun to play. Remember to always check the Commander ban list before building your deck, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you have any questions. Happy gaming!