How to Play Magic: The Gathering Commander

A Beginner-Friendly Guide from Monkey Llama Games

If you’ve ever wanted to jump into Magic: The Gathering but felt overwhelmed, Commander is one of the most fun—and social—ways to start. It’s less about strict competition and more about big plays, creative decks, and memorable moments around the table.

At Monkey Llama Games, Commander is a staple of our community nights, and this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get started.

What Is Commander?

Commander (also known as EDH—Elder Dragon Highlander) is a multiplayer format of Magic typically played with 3–4 players. Each player brings a unique 100-card deck led by a legendary creature called their Commander.

The goal?Be the last player standing.

What You Need to Play

To get started, each player needs:

• A 100-card deck (including your Commander)

• A Commander (a legendary creature or specific planeswalker)

• A way to track life (you start at 40 life)

Deck Rules:

• Only one copy of each card (except basic lands)

• All cards must match your Commander’s color identity

• Your Commander starts outside the deck in the Command Zone

Understanding Your Commander

Your Commander defines your deck’s strategy and colors. You can cast it from the Command Zone, but there’s a catch:

• Each time it returns to the Command Zone, it costs 2 more mana to cast again (this is called Commander Tax)

Your Commander is your deck’s centerpiece—build around its abilities!

Game Setup

1. Each player shuffles their deck

2. Draw 7 cards

3. Decide turn order

4. Everyone starts at 40 life

How a Turn Works

Each turn follows the same structure:

1. Untap

Untap all your cards (turn them upright)

2. Upkeep

Resolve any effects that happen at the start of your turn

3. Draw

Draw one card

4. Main Phase

• Play a land (once per turn)

• Cast spells (creatures, artifacts, enchantments, etc.)

5. Combat

• Declare attackers

• Opponents choose blockers

• Damage is dealt

6. Second Main Phase

Another chance to cast spells

7. End Step

Wrap up your turn

Winning the Game

There are a few ways to win in Commander:

• Reduce opponents from 40 life to 0

• Deal 21 combat damage with your Commander to a single player

• Use special card effects that win the game

Why Commander Is So Popular

Commander stands out because:

• It’s social – table talk and alliances matter

• It’s creative – no two decks feel the same

• It’s epic – big plays and wild combos happen often

You’re not just playing cards—you’re telling a story.

Tips for New Players

Start with a preconstructed deckThese are balanced, affordable, and ready to play right out of the box.

Don’t worry about perfectionCommander is about fun, not flawless play.

Talk to your tableCommander has an unwritten “Rule 0”—make sure everyone agrees on the vibe (casual, competitive, etc.)

Expect chaosBig swings and unexpected plays are part of the fun.

Play Commander at Monkey Llama Games

Looking to try Commander in a welcoming environment?

Join us at Monkey Llama Games for open table nights, beginner-friendly sessions, and a growing community of players who love helping new adventurers learn the ropes.

Bring a deck—or borrow one—and jump into the action.

Final Thought

Commander is the perfect mix of strategy, creativity, and community. Whether you’re casting your first spell or building your tenth deck, there’s always something new to discover.

And remember:It’s not just about winning—it’s about the stories you create along the way.