At Waxwing Inspections, we’re passionate about strategy, creativity, and detail—just like the game of Commander. Also known as EDH (Elder Dragon Highlander), Commander is one of the most popular formats in Magic: The Gathering. It’s a multiplayer-centric, singleton format (meaning only one copy of each card except basic lands), with a unique gameplay experience centered around a legendary creature as your Commander. Whether you’re new to Commander or a veteran brewer looking to sharpen your skills, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to build an effective, fun, and powerful Commander deck.
Step 1: Choose Your Commander
The first and most crucial decision you’ll make when building a Commander deck is selecting your commander. Your choice will define the deck’s colors, potential strategies, and win conditions.
Things to Consider:
- Color Identity: Your deck can only contain cards that match your commander’s color identity.
- Synergy: Your commander should support or inspire a strong deck theme (e.g., tokens, reanimator, spellslinger, lifegain).
- Mana Cost: Lower-cost commanders generally hit the board earlier and influence the game sooner.
- Popularity and Power Level: Consider whether you want to play a popular commander or something more niche.
Step 2: Pick a Theme or Strategy
Once you’ve chosen a commander, it’s time to choose a theme or strategy that aligns with their abilities.
Popular Themes:
- Voltron: Focused on suiting up a single creature (usually your commander) to deal massive damage.
- Combo: Utilize card interactions to create infinite loops or game-ending synergies.
- Control: Slow down the game, counter threats, and win through inevitability.
- Tribal: Build around a specific creature type like Elves, Dragons, or Zombies.
- Tokens: Generate lots of small creatures to overwhelm your opponents.
- Spellslinger: Cast a high volume of instants and sorceries.
Step 3: Build Your Mana Base
A stable and efficient mana base is essential to executing your game plan.
Recommended Breakdown for a 100-Card Deck:
- 37–39 Lands: Include a mix of basics, duals, shock lands, fetch lands, and utility lands.
- Ramp (10–12 Cards): Includes mana rocks like Sol Ring, signets, and green ramp spells like Cultivate and Kodama’s Reach.
Step 4: Include Essential Card Categories
Commander decks typically include cards that fulfill certain roles regardless of your specific strategy.
Key Categories:
- Card Draw (8–10 Cards): Ensure consistent access to your deck.
- Removal (8–10 Cards): Include both targeted and board wipe effects.
- Ramp (10–12 Cards): Accelerate your mana to play powerful spells faster.
- Protection (3–5 Cards): Keep your commander and key pieces safe.
- Win Conditions (2–4 Cards): Clear ways to close out the game.
Step 5: Playtest and Adjust
Once your deck is assembled, playtest it against a variety of other decks. Note any issues with mana, card draw, synergy, or win conditions.
Tips for Tuning:
- Remove cards that often sit dead in your hand.
- Increase ramp or card draw if you consistently run low.
- Adjust your mana base if you’re color-screwed frequently.
- Add more interaction if your deck struggles with opponents’ threats.
Step 6: Deckbuilding Tools and Resources
There are many great online tools to help you refine your build, test ideas, and get inspired by what others have created. If you’re local, using a commander deck builder San Marcos, TX can provide personalized, hands-on help to ensure your deck is optimized and ready for game night.
Online Resources:
- EDHREC (decklists and card stats)
- Moxfield (deck builder and simulator)
- Archidekt (visual deck builder)
- MTGGoldfish (trending decks and strategies)
Step 7: Consider Your Playgroup’s Power Level
Not all Commander decks are created equal. Some are casual, while others are highly competitive. Build to match your group’s expectations to ensure fun for everyone.
Deck Power Levels:
- Casual: Lower-budget, more janky or theme-driven decks.
- Mid-Power: Tuned and consistent, but not full of infinite combos.
- High-Power/cEDH: Competitive, fast, and hyper-optimized.
Step 8: Sleeve, Store, and Protect Your Deck
Once your deck is ready, invest in good sleeves and a deck box. Keep your cards protected, especially if you have foils or high-value pieces.
Recommendations:
- Dragon Shield or Ultra Pro sleeves
- Deck boxes with compartments for tokens/dice
- Label your decks clearly, especially if you have multiple
Step 9: Practice, Learn, and Improve
Commander is a format that rewards knowledge and creativity. The more you play, the better you’ll understand your deck and your opponents. Watch videos, read articles, and keep evolving your skills.
Learning Resources:
- YouTube (The Command Zone, MTG Mudsta)
- Podcasts (Commander’s Brew, EDHRECast)
- Reddit (/r/EDH, /r/MagicTCG)
Bonus: Commander Etiquette and Multiplayer Tips
Commander is more social than most MTG formats, and diplomacy is key.
Good Etiquette:
- Announce your commander clearly.
- Don’t rush turns.
- Avoid overlong combo turns.
- Talk it out—alliances and betrayal are part of the game.
- Know your deck and triggers to keep the game moving.
Multiplayer Politics:
- Be persuasive—”If you attack them, I won’t swing at you next turn.”
- Bluff subtly.
- Know when to sandbag threats or play them early.
Final Thoughts: Build What You Love
Commander is about expression. Build around your favorite characters, mechanics, and combos. Winning is fun—but style, creativity, and great gameplay moments are what keep people coming back to the table.
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Happy deckbuilding, and may your commander always be ready to lead the charge!