MTG, a famous card game, offers diverse formats for an engaging gaming experience. There are two popular game formats in MTG: Commander and Standard. They attract different players and playstyles. This article explores Commander vs. Standard, helping you choose the format you prefer.
The Magic: The Gathering Universe
Magic: The Gathering, or MTG, was created by mathematician Richard Garfield in 1993. Wizards of the Coast published it. It introduced players to a blend.
The Magic: The Gathering universe has a vast multiverse with distinct planes. New MTG sets are released often, with a fresh plane, story, and expanded lore and mechanics.
To understand Magic: The Gathering, you need to know the basic gameplay concepts. These concepts are the five mana colours, different card types, turn structure, and how to win.
Standard Format
Standard, formerly called “Type 2,” is a competitive format in Magic that has a rich history. Standard, also called “Type 2,” is a traditional and competitive Magic format. It includes recent sets and has a changing metagame.
The Evolution of Standard Format
The Standard has changed over the years to match the Magic game and new sets. Understanding its evolution is key to comprehending its current state.
Notable Standard Sets
Certain sets in MTG’s history have left a significant impact on the Standard format. These sets brought new game mechanics, strong cards, and stories that players remember.
Deck Construction
Standard decks have at least 60 cards with creatures, spells, lands, and other card types. The deck-building process is highly strategic, as players aim to create synergistic decks.
Rotation and Card Legality
One of the defining features of Standard is the concept of rotation. Over time, sets “rotate out” of the format, while new ones are added. The rotation keeps the format fresh, so players have to adapt to new cards and strategies.
Banned and Restricted Cards
Standard has a list of banned and restricted cards to keep the game balanced and healthy. Understanding the reasons behind these decisions is crucial for competitive players.
Gameplay Mechanics
In standard games, turns have phases like untap, upkeep, draw, and main phases. This structure is pivotal in planning your moves and utilizing your resources efficiently.
Card Types in Standard
Standard has many different types of cards, each with special abilities and functions. Knowing the differences in cards is crucial for strategic gameplay.
Key Strategies and Archetypes
In standard decks, you’ll find well-known strategies like aggro, control, and combo. These strategies dictate a deck’s playstyle and the way it aims to win games.
Player Experience
In Standard, you need certain cards to make strong decks, but this can be expensive. This can make it less accessible to budget-conscious players or newcomers.
Frequent Updates and Metagame Shifts
The dynamic nature of Standard means that the metagame evolves rapidly. It’s exciting and challenging. Players must stay updated and adapt their decks.
Competitive Scene
Standard has tournaments, Pro Tours, and the World Championship for top players. If you want to go pro, you need to understand the competitive landscape.
Commander Format
Commander, also called Elder Dragon Highlander (EDH), has a unique and social gameplay. The game centres around the Commander card. It’s the player’s leader and the foundation of their deck.
The Birth of Commander
The commander format was created by players who wanted a special and social way to enjoy MTG. This format emphasizes creativity and social interaction.
Unique Aspects of Commander
Commander has special features like a bigger deck, a single-card rule, and its own banned list. These aspects contribute to its distinctive gameplay.
Deck Construction
Commander decks have 100 cards, much bigger than other MTG formats. This larger deck size adds complexity and diversity to deck construction.
Commander Selection
In Commander, you choose a card that follows specific rules to define your deck. The Commander becomes a focal point of the deck and often defines its strategy.
Singleton Rule and Banned List
In Commander, each card (except basic lands) must be unique to follow the singleton rule. Additionally, the format has a specific banned list that alters deck-building options.
Gameplay Mechanics
Unlike Standard, which typically involves duelling, Commander encourages multiplayer games. It fosters a social feel, with alliances, betrayals, and politics being frequent.
Command Zone and Commander Tax
In Commander games, the Commander card starts in the command zone and can be cast from there. Each time you cast the Commander from the command zone, it gets more expensive due to the commander tax.
Social and Political Aspects
The multiplayer nature of Commander often leads to social and political interactions. These dynamics can greatly impact game outcomes, adding more strategic depth.
Player Experience
One of Commander’s most appealing aspects is the freedom it offers for creativity. Players can create special decks based on their Commander’s story and powers.
Slower Paced Games
Commander games are longer and more relaxed than fast-paced Standard duels. This allows for deeper strategic planning and epic, drawn-out battles.
Commander-Specific Products
Wizards of the Coast sees Commander’s popularity. They release Commander-specific products like decks and exclusive cards. They cater to the format’s players.
In case you are interested in this type of article, here is our top recommended article: What Are the Basic Rules for Building a Commander Deck?
The Key Differences
Standard decks have at least 60 cards, which makes games more consistent and faster.
Commander’s 100-Card Singleton Decks
Commander decks have 100 cards, encouraging diverse and creative deck building.
Standard’s Sets and Rotation
Standard has a rotating schedule. Older sets rotate out, making way for newer ones.
Commander’s Extensive Card Pool
Commander has a vast card pool, with most MTG cards allowed, barring those on the banned list.
Commander as a Singleton Format
In Commander, every card (except basic lands) in the deck must be different.
The Singleton Rule in Commander
The rule asks players to create flexible decks that adapt to different situations.
Command Zone and Commander Tax
In Commander, the Command Zone is where the Commander card starts, adding a unique aspect to the game.
Commander Tax in Commander Games
The Commander tax adds a recasting cost that affects strategy and decisions.
Multiplayer vs. Dueling
Standard primarily involves one-on-one duels, emphasizing direct competition and strategy.
Commander’s Multiplayer Interaction
Commander promotes multiplayer games, encouraging alliances, diplomacy, and strategic interactions between players.
Accessibility and Cost
Standard often requires players to buy specific, costly cards to stay competitive.
Commander’s More Budget-Friendly Nature
Commander is a wallet-friendly format. Many old cards work well, and it’s all about having fun and being sociable, not just winning.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Standard is a competitive environment. Players must adapt to changing metagames for thrilling matches.
Organized Play Support
Wizards of the Coast hosts play events to support Standard. Players can test their skills and earn rewards.
Quick and Exciting Matches
Standard matches are shorter, more intense, and ideal for quick, dynamic games.
Advantages of Commander
Commander fosters a casual and social atmosphere, encouraging camaraderie, storytelling, and memorable gaming experiences.
Deep Strategy and Creativity
The format’s big deck and special rules make the game more strategic and creative. Players can come up with new and innovative strategies.
Longer, Epic Games
Commander games are like epic sagas. They give players a sense of adventure and storytelling in every match.
Disadvantages of Standard
For players who like stability, the constantly changing Standard metagame may feel overwhelming. They may be hesitant to invest in new cards every rotation.
Higher Cost of Competitive Decks
Competitive Standard decks are costly, especially to stay at the top.
Limited Deck Personalization
The Standard’s rules can restrict how you customize and build thematic decks.
Disadvantages of Commander
Commander games can take up a lot of time, which may not work well for players who have limited time for gaming.
Deck Building Complexity
The singleton rule and larger deck size in Commander can make deck building harder.
Commander Tax and Politics
The Commander tax and social dynamics can be frustrating for some players.
Choosing Your Path
Understanding your preferred playstyle, level of competitiveness, and social inclinations can help you decide between Commander and Standard.
Budget Considerations
Consider your budget when choosing a format. When choosing a format, consider your budget. Standard may need more investments, but Commander has more budget options.
The Appeal of Both Formats
Players love Commander and Standard, as they suit various moods and tastes. You can explore the best of both worlds.
The Impact of Commander on Magic: The Gathering
Commander has become increasingly popular, with more players and a devoted fanbase.
Unique Card Designs
Wizards of the Coast made cards just for Commander. They have new mechanics and legendary creatures that make the format better.
Commander-Specific Products
The demand for Commander products has led to the release of pre-constructed Commander decks and special products, catering to the format’s unique needs.
Conclusion:
Commander and Standard are different and exciting game formats in Magic: The Gathering. Standard is competitive and dynamic, with decks that rotate often. Commander has larger decks, a singleton rule, and focuses on social interactions. Choose the format you like to play, what you prefer, and your budget. Players enjoy the diversity both formats offer in Magic: The Gathering.
