The question of “Are Sideboards Allowed In Commander” is a common one, especially for players transitioning from other Magic: The Gathering formats. Commander, also known as EDH (Elder Dragon Highlander), has unique rules that differ from formats like Standard or Modern, and understanding sideboard legality is key to building your deck and playing strategically.
Commander Sideboard Rules: The Lowdown
So, Are Sideboards Allowed In Commander? The short answer is: it depends! Whether you can use a sideboard hinges entirely on the social contract and variant of Commander you’re playing.
In the most common, casual version of Commander, sideboards are generally not used. Players build 100-card decks (including their commander) and play directly from that deck throughout the game. No cards are swapped in or out between games. This helps maintain a sense of consistency and allows players to showcase the full breadth of their deck’s strategy. However, this doesn’t mean there aren’t times when sideboards may become relevant. Here’s a simple breakdown:
- Casual Commander: No sideboards. Play with your 100-card deck as is.
- Tournament Commander: Sideboards *may* be allowed, depending on the specific event rules. Always check with the tournament organizer.
There is one notable exception within the official Commander rules. Players may have a sideboard of up to 10 cards (or 15 cards for Battlebond variant) to use between games when playing a *Commander variant* called “Commander Draft.” In this variant, players draft cards to build their commander decks, and the sideboard allows for adjustments between rounds.
| Format | Sideboard Allowed? |
|---|---|
| Casual Commander | Generally No |
| Commander Draft | Yes (10 cards, 15 in Battlebond) |
| Tournament Commander | Sometimes, check rules |
Understanding these distinctions and communicating with your playgroup will ensure everyone is on the same page regarding sideboard usage. Remember, the spirit of Commander is about fun and inclusive gameplay!
For a deeper dive into the official rules and nuances of Commander, refer to the official Commander rules website. It contains detailed explanations and clarifications to help you better understand the format.