Commander Legends is a unique Magic: The Gathering set that allows players to draft and build Commander decks from the ground up. This draft format combines the fun of drafting with the popular multiplayer format of Commander, enabling players to create powerful and synergistic decks using legendary creatures and a variety of spells. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore strategies, tips, and considerations for drafting in Commander Legends, ensuring that you make the most of your drafting experience.
Understanding Commander Legends
Before diving into the draft strategies, it is crucial to understand what Commander Legends is all about. This set features a plethora of legendary creatures and spells designed specifically for the Commander format. In a typical draft, players will open booster packs and select cards to build a 100-card deck, including a commander. Unlike traditional drafting formats, Commander Legends allows for the drafting of a commander and a wider variety of card choices.
Key Features of Commander Legends
1. Legendary Creatures: Each pack includes a number of legendary creatures and planeswalkers, which serve as potential commanders.
2. Draftable Commanders: Players can draft multiple commanders from the same set, allowing for more creative deck-building strategies.
3. Multicolor Theme: The set encourages multicolor decks, providing a range of cards that support various color combinations.
4. Partner Mechanic: Many cards in the set have the Partner ability, allowing players to choose two commanders for more versatility.
Drafting Strategy
Drafting in Commander Legends requires a different approach than typical booster draft formats. Here are some strategies to consider when participating in a draft:
1. Know Your Commanders
Selecting the right commander is one of the most critical decisions in the draft. A good commander can dictate your overall strategy and help you build a cohesive deck. Consider the following when choosing a commander:
- Synergy with Your Cards: Look for commanders that complement the cards you are drafting. If you find multiple creatures or spells that work well with a particular commander, it may be best to prioritize that option.
- Color Identity: Be mindful of the color identity of your commander. This will determine which colors of mana you can include in your deck. Ideally, choose a commander that allows for a flexible mana base.
- Playstyle: Consider what playstyle you enjoy. Whether you prefer aggressive strategies, control, or combo, select a commander that fits your style.
2. Prioritize Strong Early Picks
In a Commander Legends draft, the first few picks can significantly impact your deck's power level. Here’s what to prioritize:
- Powerful Legendaries: Take note of strong legendary creatures that can serve as both a commander and a valuable addition to your deck.
- Removal Spells: Cards that can remove threats from the board are essential. Prioritize efficient removal, as it can swing the tide of a game.
- Mana Ramp: Cards that help you accelerate your mana production, such as mana rocks and land-fetching spells, are vital in Commander. They enable you to cast your larger spells sooner.
3. Assess the Draft Environment
Pay attention to what other players are drafting. Commander Legends draft typically involves multiple players, so understanding the overall environment is crucial.
- Identify Color Signals: If you notice several players drafting blue, it might be wise to avoid that color and focus on a different strategy.
- Monitor Power Levels: Keep an eye on the power levels of commanders being drafted. If you see strong commanders being selected, it may indicate that players are leaning towards specific strategies, allowing you to pivot your draft approach.
4. Build a Balanced Deck
Once your cards are selected, focus on building a well-rounded deck. A balanced deck typically includes:
- Creatures: Aim for a mix of early-game and late-game creatures. This will ensure that you can contest the board at various stages of the game.
- Removal and Control Elements: Include spells that can deal with your opponents’ threats, whether through direct removal or board wipes.
- Card Draw: Incorporate cards that allow you to draw additional cards. This will help you maintain a steady flow of resources throughout the game.
- Mana Sources: Ensure you have enough mana sources to support your color identity. A good rule of thumb is to have around 38 lands and mana rocks in a 100-card deck.
Drafting Tips
To further enhance your drafting experience, consider the following tips:
1. Embrace Flexibility
While it’s essential to have a game plan, being flexible during the draft can yield better results. If your desired colors are drying up, be willing to shift your strategy and explore other options.
2. Use the Partner Mechanic Wisely
If you draft a commander with the Partner ability, consider how to utilize this mechanic effectively. Pairing two commanders can offer unique synergies and more strategic options during gameplay. Assess how the two commanders complement each other, and build your deck with those strengths in mind.
3. Avoid Overcommitting to a Strategy
Commander Legends allows for diverse strategies, but overcommitting to one can lead to a lack of versatility. Focus on building a well-rounded deck that can adapt to various situations rather than solely relying on one win condition.
4. Test Your Deck
Once the draft is complete, take some time to playtest your deck. This will help you identify weak spots and areas for improvement. Adjust your deck as necessary before heading into games.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced players may fall victim to common pitfalls during a Commander Legends draft. Here are some mistakes to be aware of:
1. Ignoring Mana Costs
Be cautious of drafting cards with high mana costs without sufficient mana ramp. A deck filled with expensive spells can lead to slow gameplay and hinder your ability to respond to threats.
2. Neglecting Your Commander’s Ability
Focus on your commander’s abilities when building your deck. Ignoring the strengths of your commander can lead to a disjointed deck that does not capitalize on synergies.
3. Failing to Adapt
If your initial strategy isn’t working out, don’t be afraid to pivot. Adapting to the draft environment and what other players are doing is crucial for success.
Conclusion
A successful Commander Legends draft involves understanding your options, building a balanced deck, and remaining adaptable throughout the process. By focusing on strong commanders, prioritizing early picks, and being aware of your surroundings, you can create a powerful deck that will shine in your games. With these strategies and tips in hand, you’re well-equipped to take on the Commander Legends draft and enjoy the thrilling experience it has to offer. Happy drafting!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Commander Legends and how does it differ from traditional Magic: The Gathering drafts?
Commander Legends is a unique set specifically designed for the Commander format, allowing players to draft their own Commander decks. Unlike traditional drafts, players can pick legendary creatures and build multiplayer-ready decks from a shared pool of cards.
What are some key strategies for drafting in Commander Legends?
Focus on drafting a cohesive theme or strategy around your chosen Commander. Consider the mana curve, color balance, and card synergy to ensure your deck is powerful and effective in multiplayer games.
How many cards do players draft in a typical Commander Legends draft?
In a Commander Legends draft, players typically draft 20 cards each from a pool of 3 booster packs, building a 100-card deck that includes a Commander and can include any number of basic lands.
What are the best colors to draft in Commander Legends?
The best colors often depend on your chosen Commander and the synergy within your draft. However, multicolor strategies are generally stronger due to the variety of powerful cards available in the set.
Can you use cards from Commander Legends in other formats?
While Commander Legends is optimized for the Commander format, many cards can be used in other formats like Vintage and Legacy, depending on the card's legality in those formats.
What are some standout cards to look for when drafting Commander Legends?
Look for powerful legendary creatures, impactful spells, and cards with strong abilities that fit your deck's theme. Notable examples include 'Ruinous Ultimatum' and 'Akroma, the Primal Storm'.
How do the drafting rules for Commander Legends accommodate multiplayer gameplay?
Commander Legends drafting allows players to build decks specifically for multiplayer formats. Players are encouraged to draft cards that can impact multiple opponents, promoting more interactive and dynamic gameplay.
What tips can help new players succeed in their first Commander Legends draft?
New players should focus on understanding their chosen Commander's strengths, draft synergistic cards, and keep an eye on the mana curve. It's also helpful to communicate and cooperate with teammates for a more enjoyable experience.
Are there any specific drafting tactics unique to Commander Legends?
Yes, players should consider drafting multiple legendary creatures to have options for their Commander, and take advantage of the set's mechanics that benefit from having a diverse array of powerful cards.
