How to build a commander deck guide, last updated: October 15, 2026
Learning how to build a commander deck is easy if you follow a plan. First, pick a legendary creature as your commander. Then, add 99 other cards that support it, with about 36 to 38 lands, plus ramp, card draw and removal. However, you must also follow the format rules and agree on a power level with your group. Therefore, this guide shows the rules, a simple card template and the new bracket system.
How to Build a Commander Deck: Quick Rules
Before you pick cards, learn the rules. First, according to the Commander rules, these are the basics.
- Deck size: First, your deck has exactly 100 cards, including the commander.
- Singleton: Also, except for basic lands, you cannot have two cards with the same name.
- Color identity: Next, every card must fit the colors of your commander, including colors in its rules text.
- Life: Each player starts with 40 life.
- Commander damage: A player loses after taking 21 combat damage from one commander.
- Commander tax: Finally, each time you recast your commander from the command zone, it costs {2} more.
Also, the same rules page says some cards are banned. Therefore, check the current banned list before you buy anything.
How to Build a Commander Deck Step by Step
Follow these steps in order. They work for a first deck and for later ones.
- Choose a commander. First, pick a legendary creature you enjoy playing. It decides your colors and your game plan.
- Pick one strategy. Next, choose a plan such as tokens, a creature type, counters, spells or card advantage. A focused deck is more consistent.
- Add lands. Then, set aside 36 to 38 lands, according to Nerd Leagues.
- Add ramp. After that, include 8 to 12 cards that give you extra mana.
- Add card draw. Also, add about 10 to 12 sources of cards, so you do not run out of options.
- Add interaction. Then, include 8 to 10 pieces of removal and answers, with 2 to 3 board wipes.
- Fill the rest with synergy. Finally, use the remaining slots for cards that work with your commander.
Then, play the deck and replace cards that never help. Meanwhile, if you also enjoy other card games, see our guide to the types of pokemon cards.
How to Build a Commander Deck Template
For example, Nerd Leagues describes the “8×8 method”: keep your commander, set aside land slots, choose eight themes and find about eight cards for each. As a result, the deck stays balanced. Use the table below as a starting point.
| Card Type | How Many |
|---|---|
| Commander | 1 |
| Lands | 36 to 38 |
| Ramp | 8 to 12 |
| Card draw | 10 to 12 |
| Removal and board wipes | 8 to 10 |
| Strategy and synergy cards | The rest |
These numbers overlap, so do not treat them as strict. For example, a land that makes extra mana counts as both. In addition, Nerd Leagues advises a curve that peaks at two to three mana. Therefore, ask what each five-mana card does the turn it arrives.
How to Build a Good Commander Deck for Your Group
Power level matters as much as card choice. Wizards of the Coast created Commander Brackets to help players talk about power before a game. According to Commander Brackets, there are five of them. Moreover, each one has its own limits.
| Bracket | Idea | Game Changers |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Exhibition | Theme and fun over power | None |
| 2 Core | Classic casual Commander | None |
| 3 Upgraded | Tuned beyond a preconstructed deck | Up to 3 |
| 4 Optimized | The strongest deck you can build | Unlimited |
| 5 cEDH | Competitive Commander | Unlimited |
Wizards updated the system on February 9, 2026. In fact, according to the official announcement, Farewell and Biorhythm joined the Game Changers list. Wizards also says brackets are a tool for pregame talks, not a strict rule. Therefore, tell your group which bracket you are playing before you shuffle.
Common Mistakes When You Build a Commander Deck
- Too few lands: First, many new players play too few and miss land drops.
- Too many expensive cards: Also, a heavy curve makes the deck slow.
- No card draw: Also, without it, you run out of cards and options.
- No removal: Likewise, you cannot answer a deck that gets out of control.
- Random strong cards: Finally, cards that do not fit your plan do less than cards that work together.
How to Build a Commander Deck FAQ
How many cards are in a Commander deck?
Overall, a Commander deck has exactly 100 cards, including your commander.
How many lands should a Commander deck have?
Most guides suggest 36 to 38 lands. Nerd Leagues suggests starting with 37.
Can I have duplicate cards in Commander?
No. In fact, only basic lands can appear more than once.
What is commander damage?
Simply put, if one commander deals 21 combat damage to a player in one game, that player loses.
How do I build a high-power Commander deck?
Aim for Bracket 4 or 5. For example, use efficient mana, strong card draw, cheap interaction and more than one way to win. However, talk to your group first.
Conclusion
To learn how to build a commander deck, first start with a commander you like and one clear plan. Next, add lands, ramp, card draw and removal in the right amounts. Finally, pick a bracket, play your deck and keep improving it, because a good deck changes over time.
Sources: Commander rules, Nerd Leagues, Commander Brackets, Wizards of the Coast.
