There are endless formats within Magic: The Gathering and each of them offer a unique set of play experiences and challenges. There is something for every type of player and one of these options is Sealed Commander. This is an exciting format that offers a combination play of new booster packs and the more strategic depths of Commander format. This combination creates a dynamic and unique gameplay experience.
What is the concept?
It comes in a format where the player uses a limited pool of cards to build decks. Rather than drafting, each player is given a number of booster packs and/or carefully identified commons and uncommons from a variety of sets from which they create their Commander deck. From this, it is important to identify a legendary creature that will be the commander. Further cards are selected from the pool that will align with its colours and abilities.
The rules
The good news is it has almost identical rules to normal Commander. There is only one difference:
Any card can be used if it is in the pool, even if you have multiples of them. They just need to follow the Commander’s colour restrictions.
Why should you play Sealed Commander?
Sealed Commander offers a compelling format with a unique set of advantages:
You can experience Commander without the need for a pre-constructed deck, you just need a few booster packs and some bulk.
Every game is different and because you're building with a limited card pool, new strategies and deck combinations will keep happening, adding excitement to the game.
Sealed Commander levels the playing field, all players begin with the same resources. This is good for casual playgroups and new players.
It might be randomised, but Sealed Commander still rewards deckbuilding and strategic play that is skilful in terms of choosing the right commander and adapting to the strategies of your opponents.
Tips for building a sealed commander deck
It can be challenging to build a deck from a limited pool of cards so let’s take a look at a few tips:
1. Choose your commander carefully
Your commander is the most important card of your deck, choose one that interests you, offering interesting possibilities for deckbuilding. Think about colour, abilities and how it might work with other cards in your selection.
2. Prioritise synergy
Your cards should work well together, choose cards that share a creature type, support an individual theme or have complimentary abilities.
3. Include removal
Removal spells are vital for dealing with threats from opponents so you want cards that can remove creatures, enchantments and even artifacts.
4. Ramp up your mana
Make sure you have enough mana to cast your spells. This means including mana rocks, ramp spells, and land-fetching creatures that will accelerate mana production.
Don't forget card draw
Finally, card draw is vital when it comes to maintaining a steady flow of resources. You need to include cards that permit you to draw extra cards or filter through the deck you hold. That’s the best way to ensure you have every chance of success at Sealed Commander.
Good Luck!
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