Commander in MTG: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Commander, also known as Elder Dragon Highlander, is a popular multiplayer variant of Magic: The Gathering. It is a social and strategic format that allows players to showcase their creativity and build unique and powerful decks. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the key elements of Commander, providing beginners with the knowledge they need to get started and experienced players with insights to enhance their gameplay.

Choosing a Commander

The most important decision in Commander is choosing your commander. This card will serve as the face of your deck and determine its overall strategy. Commanders can be any legendary creature or planeswalker from the history of Magic. Consider your playstyle, preferred colors, and desired power level when selecting a commander.

Commander Identity

Each commander has a unique color identity, which is the combination of colors in its mana cost and casting cost. Only cards that share this color identity can be included in your deck. This restriction ensures that decks are focused and prevents overpowered combinations.

Building a Commander Deck

Building a Commander deck requires careful planning and consideration. The deck should be balanced, with a mix of creatures, spells, and lands that support your chosen commander. Here are some key factors to consider:

Deck Composition

Commander decks typically consist of 100 cards, including the commander. The composition of your deck will vary depending on your commander and playstyle. Generally, you will want to include a solid mana base, plenty of creatures to attack with, removal spells to disrupt opponents, and a few utility cards to answer specific threats.

Mana Curve

The mana curve of your deck represents the distribution of mana costs among your cards. A good mana curve ensures that you can cast your spells on time and maintain a consistent flow of mana. Aim for a balance of low-cost cards to get you started and high-cost cards to finish the game.

Interaction and Value

Commander is a multiplayer format, so it is important to be able to interact with your opponents. Include cards that can counter spells, remove creatures, or disrupt their strategies. Additionally, consider cards that generate value over time, such as planeswalkers or creatures with abilities that trigger when they enter the battlefield.

Playing Commander

Playing Commander is a unique and challenging experience. Here are some tips to help you succeed:

Board Control

Establishing board control is crucial in Commander. This means having a significant number of creatures on the battlefield to threaten your opponents and block their attacks. Use removal spells, combat tricks, and other tactics to gain and maintain control of the board.

Commander Damage

In Commander, if a player is dealt 21 points of damage from the same commander, they lose the game. Protect your commander by using cards that give it hexproof or indestructible. Conversely, target your opponents' commanders to force them out of the game.

Politics and Diplomacy

Commander is a social format, and political maneuvering can be just as important as card strategy. Communicate with your opponents, form alliances, and make deals to increase your chances of winning. However, be careful not to overcommit or betray your allies, as this can come back to haunt you.

Conclusion

Commander is a captivating and dynamic format that offers endless possibilities for creativity and strategic gameplay. By understanding the key elements of deckbuilding and gameplay, players can cultivate their skills and enjoy the unique experience that Commander provides.