{"id":329695,"date":"2025-07-03T00:05:13","date_gmt":"2025-07-03T00:05:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/?p=329695"},"modified":"2025-07-03T00:05:13","modified_gmt":"2025-07-03T00:05:13","slug":"can-commander-decks-have-sideboards","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/can-commander-decks-have-sideboards\/","title":{"rendered":"Can Commander decks have sideboards?"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_67_1 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title \" >Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/can-commander-decks-have-sideboards\/#Can_Commander_Decks_Have_Sideboards_A_Comprehensive_Guide\" title=\"Can Commander Decks Have Sideboards? A Comprehensive Guide\">Can Commander Decks Have Sideboards? A Comprehensive Guide<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-2' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/can-commander-decks-have-sideboards\/#The_Traditional_Commander_Structure_Why_No_Sideboard\" title=\"The Traditional Commander Structure: Why No Sideboard?\">The Traditional Commander Structure: Why No Sideboard?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/can-commander-decks-have-sideboards\/#The_Companion_Exception\" title=\"The Companion Exception\">The Companion Exception<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/can-commander-decks-have-sideboards\/#%E2%80%9CRule_0%E2%80%9D_and_the_Possibility_of_House-Ruled_Sideboards\" title=\"&#8220;Rule 0&#8221; and the Possibility of House-Ruled Sideboards\">&#8220;Rule 0&#8221; and the Possibility of House-Ruled Sideboards<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/can-commander-decks-have-sideboards\/#The_%E2%80%9CWishboard%E2%80%9D_Concept\" title=\"The &#8220;Wishboard&#8221; Concept\">The &#8220;Wishboard&#8221; Concept<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/can-commander-decks-have-sideboards\/#Considerations_When_Implementing_a_%E2%80%9CRule_0%E2%80%9D_Sideboard\" title=\"Considerations When Implementing a &#8220;Rule 0&#8221; Sideboard\">Considerations When Implementing a &#8220;Rule 0&#8221; Sideboard<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/can-commander-decks-have-sideboards\/#In_conclusion\" title=\"In conclusion\">In conclusion<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/can-commander-decks-have-sideboards\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions_FAQs\" title=\"Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)\">Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/can-commander-decks-have-sideboards\/#1_What_are_the_rules_for_sideboards_in_Magic_The_Gathering\" title=\"1. What are the rules for sideboards in Magic: The Gathering?\">1. What are the rules for sideboards in Magic: The Gathering?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/can-commander-decks-have-sideboards\/#2_When_can_I_use_my_sideboard_in_MTG\" title=\"2. When can I use my sideboard in MTG?\">2. When can I use my sideboard in MTG?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/can-commander-decks-have-sideboards\/#3_What_are_the_rules_for_building_a_commander_deck\" title=\"3. What are the rules for building a commander deck?\">3. What are the rules for building a commander deck?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/can-commander-decks-have-sideboards\/#4_What_is_rule_0_in_commander\" title=\"4. What is rule 0 in commander?\">4. What is rule 0 in commander?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/can-commander-decks-have-sideboards\/#5_What_is_the_rule_of_thumb_for_commander_deck_building\" title=\"5. What is the rule of thumb for commander deck building?\">5. What is the rule of thumb for commander deck building?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/can-commander-decks-have-sideboards\/#6_What_is_a_sideboard_in_MTG_Commander\" title=\"6. What is a sideboard in MTG Commander?\">6. What is a sideboard in MTG Commander?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/can-commander-decks-have-sideboards\/#7_Where_can_you_use_a_sideboard\" title=\"7. Where can you use a sideboard?\">7. Where can you use a sideboard?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/can-commander-decks-have-sideboards\/#8_How_many_cards_in_a_Commander_sideboard\" title=\"8. How many cards in a Commander sideboard?\">8. How many cards in a Commander sideboard?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/can-commander-decks-have-sideboards\/#9_How_big_can_your_sideboard_be_in_MTG\" title=\"9. How big can your sideboard be in MTG?\">9. How big can your sideboard be in MTG?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/can-commander-decks-have-sideboards\/#10_Do_you_need_a_sideboard_in_MTG\" title=\"10. Do you need a sideboard in MTG?\">10. Do you need a sideboard in MTG?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/can-commander-decks-have-sideboards\/#11_Can_you_bring_a_sideboard_guide_to_MTG\" title=\"11. Can you bring a sideboard guide to MTG?\">11. Can you bring a sideboard guide to MTG?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/can-commander-decks-have-sideboards\/#12_Why_shouldnt_you_upgrade_your_Commander_deck_too_frequently\" title=\"12. Why shouldn&#8217;t you upgrade your Commander deck too frequently?\">12. Why shouldn&#8217;t you upgrade your Commander deck too frequently?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/can-commander-decks-have-sideboards\/#13_Whats_the_purpose_of_a_sideboard\" title=\"13. What&#8217;s the purpose of a sideboard?\">13. What&#8217;s the purpose of a sideboard?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/can-commander-decks-have-sideboards\/#14_How_big_can_your_sideboard_be_in_Commander\" title=\"14. How big can your sideboard be in Commander?\">14. How big can your sideboard be in Commander?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/can-commander-decks-have-sideboards\/#15_How_many_cards_allowed_in_a_sideboard_mtg\" title=\"15. How many cards allowed in a sideboard mtg?\">15. How many cards allowed in a sideboard mtg?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h1><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_Commander_Decks_Have_Sideboards_A_Comprehensive_Guide\"><\/span>Can Commander Decks Have Sideboards? A Comprehensive Guide<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<p>The straightforward answer is: Generally, no, <strong>Commander<\/strong> (also known as EDH, or Elder Dragon Highlander) decks do not typically have sideboards. The conventional format emphasizes single, self-contained multiplayer games, rather than structured matches with multiple games requiring sideboard adjustments. However, there&#8217;s a notable exception: the <strong>Companion mechanic<\/strong>. If your deck and commander meet the specific criteria of a Companion card, that card can exist outside the main deck, effectively acting as a sideboard of one.<\/p>\n<p>But the world of Commander is ever-evolving, and the community&#8217;s embrace of &#8220;Rule 0&#8221; \u2013 the concept of pre-game discussions and agreed-upon variations to the format \u2013 means that the question of sideboards is more nuanced than a simple yes or no. Let&#8217;s delve deeper.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Traditional_Commander_Structure_Why_No_Sideboard\"><\/span>The Traditional Commander Structure: Why No Sideboard?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The core philosophy behind Commander is social interaction and diverse gameplay. A typical Commander game involves multiple players, each with a unique deck, engaging in a single, extended play session. This stands in contrast to competitive formats like <strong>Standard<\/strong> or <strong>Modern<\/strong>, where matches are best-of-three and players have the opportunity to adapt their strategy between games.<\/p>\n<p>The absence of a sideboard in traditional Commander stems from several factors:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Focus on Single Games:<\/strong> Commander is designed for single-game experiences. Sideboards are tools for adapting to known opponents and strategies across multiple games.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Multiplayer Dynamics:<\/strong> In a multiplayer game, it&#8217;s difficult to predict who you&#8217;ll need to target or counter. A sideboard designed for a specific opponent might be useless against others at the table.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Emphasis on Deck Building:<\/strong> Commander encourages players to build well-rounded decks that can handle a variety of threats. A sideboard would potentially diminish this aspect of the format.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Social Contract:<\/strong> The &#8220;Rule 0&#8221; encourages discussion and agreement. The Commander community is built around players who understand the purpose of this social format.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Companion_Exception\"><\/span>The Companion Exception<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>As mentioned earlier, the Companion mechanic offers a narrow exception to the no-sideboard rule. A <strong>Companion<\/strong> is a card that starts the game in your &#8220;companion zone&#8221; (essentially, outside your deck) if your deck meets its specific requirements. These requirements often involve restrictions on the types of cards you can include in your deck.<\/p>\n<p>The Companion essentially functions as a guaranteed eighth card in your opening hand, providing a significant strategic advantage. While it&#8217;s not a traditional sideboard, it does allow you to have a card outside your main deck that you can access every game, provided you&#8217;ve built your deck to accommodate its requirements.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%80%9CRule_0%E2%80%9D_and_the_Possibility_of_House-Ruled_Sideboards\"><\/span>&#8220;Rule 0&#8221; and the Possibility of House-Ruled Sideboards<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The concept of &#8220;Rule 0,&#8221; sometimes referred to as the &#8220;social contract,&#8221; allows players to modify the rules of Commander through pre-game discussions and agreements. This opens the door to the possibility of incorporating sideboards into Commander games, although this is far from standard practice and requires explicit consent from all players involved.<\/p>\n<p>Here&#8217;s how a &#8220;Rule 0&#8221; sideboard might work:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Shared Understanding:<\/strong> Before the game, all players must agree on the size and limitations of the sideboard.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Fairness:<\/strong> Any sideboard rules should be applied equally to all players. No one should have an unfair advantage.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Wishboard:<\/strong> Players can use &#8220;Wish&#8221; cards to gain access to a card in their sideboard.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Specific Restrictions:<\/strong> Players can create restrictions on the types of cards that can be included in the sideboard.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Game Length:<\/strong> Players should consider the impact of sideboards on game length. More time is required.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Format Alterations:<\/strong> Players can use the sideboard to alter the format of the game, such as adding a mechanic that does not appear on the card.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_%E2%80%9CWishboard%E2%80%9D_Concept\"><\/span>The &#8220;Wishboard&#8221; Concept<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Another approach to circumventing the no-sideboard rule is to incorporate &#8220;Wish&#8221; cards into your Commander deck. &#8220;Wish&#8221; cards, like <strong>Cunning Wish<\/strong>, <strong>Burning Wish<\/strong>, <strong>Living Wish<\/strong>, <strong>Death Wish<\/strong>, and <strong>Glittering Wish<\/strong>, allow you to retrieve a card from outside the game.<\/p>\n<p>While technically not a sideboard, a collection of cards kept separate from your deck could function as one if you have access to these &#8220;Wish&#8221; effects. However, it&#8217;s crucial to remember that most playgroups frown upon using Wishes to grab cards from your collection unless it&#8217;s explicitly agreed upon beforehand. Instead, consider cards that let you get lands, creatures, artifacts, and enchantments from outside of the game. Be respectful of the social contract, and only use cards that are not frowned upon.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Considerations_When_Implementing_a_%E2%80%9CRule_0%E2%80%9D_Sideboard\"><\/span>Considerations When Implementing a &#8220;Rule 0&#8221; Sideboard<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>If your playgroup decides to experiment with sideboards, consider these factors:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Sideboard Size:<\/strong> Determine a reasonable number of cards for the sideboard. A common suggestion is 10 cards.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Time Constraints:<\/strong> Allow sufficient time between games for players to make sideboard adjustments.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Format Impact:<\/strong> Assess how sideboards might affect the overall dynamics and balance of Commander games. Will it make the games more competitive and less about casual fun?<\/li>\n<li><strong>Transparency:<\/strong> Be open about your sideboard strategy and the cards you intend to bring in.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Inclusivity:<\/strong> Ensure that all players have access to a sideboard, regardless of their budget or card collection.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"In_conclusion\"><\/span>In conclusion<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>While traditional Commander discourages sideboards to preserve its casual, multiplayer focus, the community-driven &#8220;Rule 0&#8221; and the Companion mechanic provide avenues for incorporating sideboard-like elements into your games. Always prioritize open communication and consensus within your playgroup to ensure a fun and balanced experience for everyone.<\/p>\n<p>Consider joining the <strong>Games Learning Society<\/strong> community for more insights on game design and strategic gameplay! Visit <strong>GamesLearningSociety.org<\/strong> to find out more.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions_FAQs\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_What_are_the_rules_for_sideboards_in_Magic_The_Gathering\"><\/span>1. What are the rules for sideboards in Magic: The Gathering?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>In <strong>Constructed formats<\/strong> like Standard and Modern, a sideboard is a group of up to 15 cards that players can use to modify their deck between games of a match. These cards allow for strategic adjustments based on the opponent&#8217;s deck and playstyle.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_When_can_I_use_my_sideboard_in_MTG\"><\/span>2. When can I use my sideboard in MTG?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Players can use their sideboard <strong>between games<\/strong> of a match, typically after the first game. They can make one-for-one swaps with cards in their main deck to improve their chances of winning the next game.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_What_are_the_rules_for_building_a_commander_deck\"><\/span>3. What are the rules for building a commander deck?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>A Commander deck must contain exactly <strong>100 cards<\/strong>, including the commander. With the exception of basic lands, no two cards in the deck may have the same English name. If you&#8217;re playing a companion, it must adhere to color identity and singleton rules.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_What_is_rule_0_in_commander\"><\/span>4. What is rule 0 in commander?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><strong>Rule 0<\/strong> refers to the pre-game discussions players have to establish the rules and power level of the game. It allows for modifications such as using banned cards, silver-bordered cards, or agreeing on custom mechanics.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_What_is_the_rule_of_thumb_for_commander_deck_building\"><\/span>5. What is the rule of thumb for commander deck building?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>A common rule of thumb is to include <strong>35 to 40 lands<\/strong> in your Commander deck. Adjust this number based on your commander&#8217;s mana cost and the amount of ramp you have in your deck.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_What_is_a_sideboard_in_MTG_Commander\"><\/span>6. What is a sideboard in MTG Commander?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>A sideboard in MTG Commander is an <strong>optional<\/strong> group of cards that can be used to swap out cards in your main deck between games of a match. It is not a traditional part of the format but can be implemented through &#8220;Rule 0&#8221; agreements.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_Where_can_you_use_a_sideboard\"><\/span>7. Where can you use a sideboard?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><strong>Sideboards<\/strong> are traditionally used in competitive MTG formats like Standard, Modern, and Legacy. In Commander, their use is less common and typically requires agreement from the playgroup.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_How_many_cards_in_a_Commander_sideboard\"><\/span>8. How many cards in a Commander sideboard?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>If a playgroup agrees to use a sideboard, the size is usually determined by them, but <strong>10-15 cards<\/strong> is a common suggestion.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"9_How_big_can_your_sideboard_be_in_MTG\"><\/span>9. How big can your sideboard be in MTG?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>In most Constructed formats, your sideboard can have up to <strong>15 cards<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"10_Do_you_need_a_sideboard_in_MTG\"><\/span>10. Do you need a sideboard in MTG?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>A sideboard is <strong>not required<\/strong>, but it can provide a significant advantage in competitive formats by allowing you to adapt your deck to your opponent&#8217;s strategy.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"11_Can_you_bring_a_sideboard_guide_to_MTG\"><\/span>11. Can you bring a sideboard guide to MTG?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>You are allowed to have <strong>outside notes<\/strong> like a sideboard guide, but you aren&#8217;t allowed to have an &#8220;excessive&#8221; amount of such notes, and you&#8217;re only allowed to look at them between rounds, not during your matches.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"12_Why_shouldnt_you_upgrade_your_Commander_deck_too_frequently\"><\/span>12. Why shouldn&#8217;t you upgrade your Commander deck too frequently?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Upgrading your Commander deck too often can lead to <strong>power creep<\/strong> and make it difficult to assess whether the changes are truly improving the deck&#8217;s performance. It also prevents the player from mastering the deck.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"13_Whats_the_purpose_of_a_sideboard\"><\/span>13. What&#8217;s the purpose of a sideboard?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The purpose of a sideboard is to provide players with <strong>flexibility<\/strong> and the ability to adapt their deck to different opponents and strategies between games of a match.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"14_How_big_can_your_sideboard_be_in_Commander\"><\/span>14. How big can your sideboard be in Commander?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>In Commander, if a playgroup decides to use a sideboard, its size is determined by the group. There is no standard rule. A common amount is <strong>10-15<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"15_How_many_cards_allowed_in_a_sideboard_mtg\"><\/span>15. How many cards allowed in a sideboard mtg?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>In Constructed formats, a sideboard may have up to <strong>15 cards<\/strong>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Can Commander Decks Have Sideboards? A Comprehensive Guide The straightforward answer is: Generally, no, Commander (also known as EDH, or Elder Dragon Highlander) decks do not typically have sideboards. The conventional format emphasizes single, self-contained multiplayer games, rather than structured matches with multiple games requiring sideboard adjustments. However, there&#8217;s a notable exception: the Companion mechanic. &#8230; <a title=\"Can Commander decks have sideboards?\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/can-commander-decks-have-sideboards\/\" aria-label=\"More on Can Commander decks have sideboards?\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[3],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-329695","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-blog"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/329695","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=329695"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/329695\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=329695"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=329695"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=329695"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}