What is required in a Commander deck?

What is Required in a Commander Deck?

Commander is a popular Magic: The Gathering format that revolves around building a deck around a specific legendary creature known as the "Commander." In this format, the Commander serves as a focal point for the player’s strategy, and all other cards in the deck must work in harmony to support the Commander’s playstyle. But what specific requirements must a Commander deck meet to be considered official? In this article, we’ll delve into the key components that make a Commander deck tick.

Deck Size and Composition
A Commander deck must, by definition, contain 100 cards, including the Commander itself. This doesn’t mean that you should simply fill the deck to the brim with anything and everything; rather, it’s essential to find a balance between cards that support your Commander’s strengths and weaknesses. Key takeaways:

• Deck size: 100 cards
• Commander requirement: 1
• Non-land cards can only be one copy (with some exceptions)

Land Requirements
Commander decks require a minimum number of basic lands to serve as a foundation for ramping up to more mana-intensive spells. Rule:

• 54-60 basic land cards (depending on individual playstyle)

Double-Faced Cards
Recent set releases have introduced double-faced cards, also known as "MMA" cards. These dual-faced cards have a hidden card on the back with its own unique abilities or effects. Important detail:

• Some double-faced cards can become active even when flipped forward (check the respective card text)

Dual Commanders
In case you’re wondering, not all Commander decks need one specific Commander. Multiple Commander decks are built around two or more legitimate Commanders, often showcasing complex synergies and cohesiveness. Remember:

• Multi-Commander decks cannot contain more than four legends (including the dual-Commanders)

Singleton Rule
A golden rule in Commander is to only include one copy of any non-basic land card, including specific planeswalkers, uncommons, and rares. Exception:

• Basic lands: no restrictions on number, but still subject to mulligan rules

Mana Ramp and Color-Identity
Commander requires ramping up towards more powerful spells, thanks to the format’s low-toughness creatures. Key considerations:

• Mana ramp is essential for building stronger turns
• Respect color identity restrictions for planeswalkers, spells, and creatures

Banned Cards
Several cards have been banned from Commander due to power level or design oversight. Always check the official WOTC list before considering any card for your build. Important note:

• Banned card restrictions are enforced at the official Commander tournaments

To summarize, a Commander deck requires:

• 1 Commander
• 100 cards (including the Commander)
• 54-60 basic lands
• Double-faced cards (individual abilities apply)
• Singleton rule for all non-basic land cards

Building a Commander deck presents an exciting challenge, encouraging creative deck-building and card synergies. By knowing what’s required in a Commander deck, you’re one step closer to forging your own unique strategy on the battlefield.