Magic: The Gathering EDH, also known as Commander, has taken the card game community by storm, providing players with a unique and engaging format that emphasizes creativity and strategy. This article will delve deep into the world of EDH, exploring its rules, strategies, and community aspects that make it one of the most beloved formats of Magic: The Gathering.
As a format that encourages players to build their decks around a legendary creature or planeswalker, EDH offers a fresh take on the traditional gameplay of Magic: The Gathering. Whether you are a seasoned player or new to the game, understanding the nuances of EDH can enhance your gaming experience and help you build a more competitive deck.
In this article, we will cover everything from the basic rules of EDH to advanced strategies, popular commanders, and community events. By the end, you will have a comprehensive understanding of Magic: The Gathering EDH and how to excel in this exciting format.
Table of Contents
- What Is EDH?
- Rules of EDH
- Building an EDH Deck
- Popular Commanders
- Strategies for Winning in EDH
- Community and Events
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
What Is EDH?
EDH, or Elder Dragon Highlander, is a multiplayer format of Magic: The Gathering that emphasizes fun and creative gameplay. Players build a 100-card deck centered around a legendary creature or planeswalker, known as the commander.
One of the defining characteristics of EDH is its singleton rule, meaning that players can only include one copy of each card in their deck, except for basic lands. This rule encourages diversity in gameplay and deck building, making each game unique.
EDH has gained immense popularity due to its focus on multiplayer interactions, social gameplay, and the opportunity for players to express their personality through their deck choices.
Rules of EDH
Basic Rules
The basic rules of EDH are simple and easy to understand, making it accessible for new players. Here are the key rules:
- Each player starts with 40 life points.
- Players must have a 100-card deck, including their commander.
- Players can only include one copy of each card, except basic lands.
- Players can cast their commander from the command zone, but each time it is cast after being sent to the command zone, it costs an additional 2 colorless mana.
- If a player is dealt 21 or more damage by a single commander, they lose the game.
Turn Structure
The turn structure in EDH follows the same phases as a standard game of Magic: The Gathering. Each player takes turns in the following order:
- Untap Step
- Upkeep Step
- Draw Step
- Main Phase 1
- Combat Phase
- Main Phase 2
- End Step
Building an EDH Deck
Building an EDH deck is both an art and a science. Here are some steps to guide you through the process:
Choosing Your Commander
The first step in building an EDH deck is choosing your commander. This choice will heavily influence your deck's strategy and color identity. Here are some tips:
- Consider your play style: Do you prefer aggressive strategies, control, or combo?
- Look for commanders with abilities that complement your desired strategy.
- Research popular commanders to gain inspiration for your deck.
Card Selection
Once you have chosen your commander, it’s time to select the rest of your deck. Aim for a balanced mixture of the following card types:
- Creatures
- Instants and Sorceries
- Enchantments and Artifacts
- Planeswalkers
- Basic and Non-Basic Lands
Popular Commanders
There are countless commanders to choose from in Magic: The Gathering EDH. Here are some of the most popular choices among players:
- Kenrith, the Returned King - A versatile commander with abilities that can support various strategies.
- Edgar Markov - A powerful vampire commander that excels in aggressive strategies.
- Ghave, Guru of Spores - A popular choice for players who enjoy token strategies.
- Nicol Bolas, the Ravager - A fearsome dragon that can dominate the board with powerful spells.
Strategies for Winning in EDH
Winning in EDH requires a combination of strategy, skill, and sometimes a bit of luck. Here are some effective strategies to consider:
Building Synergy
Focus on building a deck that has strong synergies between cards. This could mean combining cards that work well together, such as:
- Creatures that generate tokens with cards that benefit from having many creatures on the board.
- Instants that can protect your key cards or disrupt your opponents.
Managing Resources
Effective resource management is crucial in EDH. Keep track of your life total, cards in hand, and threats on the board. Make strategic decisions about when to attack, block, or cast spells.
Community and Events
EDH has a vibrant and welcoming community. Many local game stores host regular EDH nights where players can gather and enjoy the format together. Additionally, various events, such as tournaments and conventions, celebrate EDH and allow players to showcase their decks.
Online communities, such as forums and social media groups, also provide opportunities for players to connect, share strategies, and discuss the latest EDH news.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions players have about Magic: The Gathering EDH:
- Can I play EDH with fewer than four players? Yes, while EDH is typically played with four or more players, you can modify the rules for fewer players.
- What happens if my commander is sent to the graveyard? You can return your commander to the command zone and cast it from there.
Conclusion
Magic: The Gathering EDH offers players a unique and enriching experience that combines creativity, strategy, and social interaction. By understanding the rules, building a solid deck, and engaging with the community, you can enjoy countless hours of fun playing this beloved format.
We encourage you to share your thoughts in the comments below, explore other articles on our site, and get involved in your local EDH community!
References
- Wizards of the Coast - Official Magic: The Gathering Website
- EDHREC - Deck Building Resource
- TCGPlayer - Marketplace for Magic: The Gathering Cards
