Can you have more than one copy of a card in a Commander deck?
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In a Commander deck, the general rule is that you can only have one copy of any card, except for basic lands. This is known as the Singleton rule, which means that you cannot have duplicate copies of the same card in your deck, with the exception of basic lands and cards that specifically state otherwise, such as Relentless Rats or Shadowborn Apostle.
Understanding the Singleton Rule
The Singleton rule is a fundamental aspect of Commander deck building, and it’s essential to understand its implications. This rule is in place to promote diversity and creativity in deck building, as well as to prevent players from relying too heavily on a single powerful card.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the maximum number of copies of a card I can have in a Commander deck?
In a Commander deck, you can only have one copy of any card, except for basic lands and cards that specifically state otherwise.
2. Can I have multiple copies of a card if it’s a basic land?
Yes, you can have multiple copies of basic lands in your Commander deck, as they are exempt from the Singleton rule.
3. Are there any cards that are exempt from the Singleton rule?
Yes, cards like Relentless Rats and Shadowborn Apostle are exempt from the Singleton rule, as they specifically state that you can have multiple copies of them in your deck.
4. Can I have a copy of my Commander in my deck?
No, your Commander is a unique card that is not part of your main deck, and you cannot have a copy of it in your deck.
5. How many cards can I have in my Commander deck?
A Commander deck must contain exactly 100 cards, including the Commander.
6. Can I have more than 100 cards in my Commander deck?
No, a Commander deck cannot have more than 100 cards, as this is a strict rule in the Commander format.
7. What is the Commander damage rule?
A player that’s been dealt 21 or more combat damage by the same Commander over the course of the game loses the game.
8. Can I use colorless cards in my Commander deck?
Yes, colorless cards can be used in any Commander deck, as they do not have a specific color identity.
9. Can any legendary creature be a Commander?
Not all legendary creatures can be a Commander, only those that are specifically marked as Commanders or have the Partner ability.
10. What is Rule 0 in Commander?
Rule 0 is an unofficial rule that allows players to modify the rules of a non-competitive game, as long as all players agree to the changes before the game begins.
11. What is the 8×8 rule in Commander?
The 8×8 rule is a deck-building theory that suggests starting with your Commander and 35 lands, and then choosing 8 effects and 8 cards to support each effect.
12. Can I have multiple legendary cards in my Commander deck?
Yes, you can have multiple legendary cards in your Commander deck, but you can only have one copy of each card, except for basic lands.
13. Why is Tinker banned in Commander?
Tinker is banned in Commander because it is too powerful and can be used to gain an unfair advantage.
14. Why is Iona banned in Commander?
Iona is banned in Commander because it is too powerful and can be used to shut down opponents’ strategies.
15. What cards should be in every Commander deck?
Cards like Sol Ring, Arcane Signet, Chaos Warp, Rhystic Study, Heroic Intervention, and Swiftfoot Boots are considered staples in many Commander decks, as they provide powerful effects and utility.