Game and Deck Types
We recommend that the best way to learn is to get a starter pack and start to play with a friend. As you play you will have issues and get stuck, that is were we come into it.
We have put together this page full of helpful tips, symbols meanings, explanations for the words used in the game and much more.
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We hope that this list helps you enjoy the game and reduces your learning time so that you have more time to fall in love with the game.
In Magic: The Gathering, there are various deck types and game formats, each offering unique gameplay experiences. Here's an overview of some of the most common types along with their advantages and disadvantages:
Constructed Formats:
Here are a few deck-building formats that can be used in Magic: the Gathering, It is always best to find out the rules of your playing group and what they don't allow. Some deck builds and card combinations are extremely fun to use, but others can get overpowered. Sometimes these are just through luck, good deckbuilding or even using banned or restricted cards.
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Ban list
If a card appears on the banned list for your chosen format, then you may not include that card in your deck or sideboard. Doing so makes your deck illegal to play in any sanctioned tournaments for that format.
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Restricted list
If you wish to use a card that’s on the restricted list for your chosen format, you may include only a single copy of that card, counting both your main deck and your sideboard. Currently, only the Vintage format uses a restricted list.
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The Banned and restricted lists are constantly updated and can be found here MTG BAN LIST.
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1. Standard:
Standard is a rotating format where players build decks using cards from the most recent sets. The advantage is that it offers a constantly changing metagame with new strategies and cards to explore. However, the disadvantage is that cards rotate out of the format over time, requiring players to regularly update their decks to stay competitive.
2. Modern:
Modern allows cards from all sets printed since the Eighth Edition (2003) onwards, excluding banned cards. The advantage is that it offers a larger card pool with more diverse deck-building options. However, the disadvantage is that the format can become expensive due to the higher demand for older cards.
3. Legacy:
Legacy allows cards from all sets in Magic's history, with a ban list to regulate powerful cards. The advantage is the vast card pool, enabling highly diverse and intricate strategies. However, the disadvantage is that the format can be prohibitively expensive due to the scarcity of some older cards.
4. Vintage:
Vintage is similar to Legacy but with a smaller ban list and the inclusion of "Power Nine" cards, which are among the most powerful and valuable in the game. The advantage is the inclusion of these iconic cards and the complexity of gameplay they enable. However, the disadvantage is that Vintage is the most expensive format to play due to the rarity of Power Nine cards.
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Limited Formats:
1. Booster Draft:
In Booster Draft, players build decks from booster packs opened during the event. The advantage is that it tests players' deck-building skills and adaptability with limited resources. However, the disadvantage is that luck of the draw plays a significant role, and players may not always get the cards they need for their preferred strategies.
2. Sealed Deck:
Sealed Deck involves building a deck from a pool of cards provided in sealed booster packs. The advantage is that it offers a level playing field for all players, as everyone starts with the same resources. However, the disadvantage is that players have less control over their card pool compared to Booster Draft.
Casual Formats:
1. Commander:
Commander, also known as Elder Dragon Highlander (EDH), is a multiplayer format where players build 100-card singleton decks around a legendary creature called a commander. The advantage is the social aspect and the opportunity to play with larger groups. However, the disadvantage is that the format can be complex for new players due to the singleton deck-building rule and the interactions between cards.
2. Pauper:
Pauper is a format where players build decks using only common cards. The advantage is that it's an accessible and affordable format with a diverse metagame. However, the disadvantage is that the card pool is limited to commons, which may restrict deck-building options compared to other formats.
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Each Magic: The Gathering format offers a unique gameplay experience with its own set of advantages and disadvantages, catering to different playstyles and preferences. Players can choose the format that best suits their interests, budget, and desired level of competitiveness.
