What is the Starting Hand Size in Magic?
Direct Answer: In Magic, your starting hand size is seven. This is the number of cards you draw at the beginning of the game.
As a new player, it’s essential to understand the basics of Magic: The Gathering. One of the key components is the starting hand size, which sets the tone for your entire game. In this article, we’ll explore what the starting hand size is, its significance, and how it affects your gameplay.
What Happens When You Draw Your Starting Hand
When you start a new game of Magic, you draw seven cards from your deck. This is called your starting hand. At this point, you’ll have no idea what kind of cards you’ve got, and that’s exactly the thrill of the game. The cards you draw will dictate your strategy and the type of deck you’ll be playing.
Why Is the Starting Hand Size Seven?
You might be wondering why Magic’s creators chose seven as the starting hand size. The answer lies in game design. Seven cards allows for a good balance between exploration and commitment. You have enough cards to give you some flexibility, but not so many that you’re overwhelmed.
Impact on Your Gameplay
Your starting hand size has a significant impact on your gameplay. With seven cards, you have the opportunity to:
• Explore: You can try out different strategies, see what works, and adjust your plan accordingly.
• Play creatures: With a decent starting hand, you can quickly develop a creature-based deck and start attacking your opponent.
• Cast spells: Your starting hand will likely contain some spells, which can help you create an advantage early on.
• Plan ahead: Seven cards give you enough information to start building a plan, but not so much that you become too rigid in your thinking.
Exceptions to the Rule
There are instances where the starting hand size changes. If you decide to mulligan, you’ll discard your original hand and redraw a new one. Mulligan rules vary depending on the format, but the general idea is to adjust your starting hand to suit the game situation.
Best Practices
Here are some tips to keep in mind when drawing your starting hand:
• Pay attention to card types: Notice the balance of creatures, spells, and lands in your starting hand. This will give you an idea of how to develop your deck.
• Prioritize early game plays: Focus on getting your earliest plays on the board quickly, so you can build momentum and create an advantage.
• Be prepared to adapt: Magic is all about adaptability. Be willing to adjust your strategy as the game unfolds.
Conclusion
The starting hand size in Magic is seven. This foundation sets the stage for your entire game and provides the opportunity to explore different strategies, play creatures, cast spells, and plan ahead. By understanding the starting hand size, you can better navigate the game and make informed decisions.