Affordable Magic: The Gathering Commander Decks to Build

Embarking on a budget-friendly Magic: The Gathering (MTG) Commander journey can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Building a cheap Commander deck doesn't mean you have to compromise on fun or strategy. With a little creativity and resourcefulness, you can craft a powerful and engaging deck that won't break the bank.

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of building a budget Commander deck, let's briefly discuss why playing on a budget can be beneficial. Firstly, it encourages you to think creatively and outside the box. You'll discover unique cards and strategies that you might otherwise overlook. Secondly, it allows you to grow your collection gradually, swapping out cards as your budget allows. Lastly, it makes the game more accessible to new players or those looking to get back into MTG.

Understanding Budget Commander

In the world of MTG Commander, a budget deck typically refers to one where the total cost of the cards is around $100 or less. This doesn't mean every card in your deck has to be under $1, but rather that the collective cost should be within this range. Keep in mind that prices can fluctuate, so always check the current market value when building your deck.

When building a budget Commander deck, it's essential to focus on the commander itself. This card will be the most expensive, so choose wisely. Opt for commanders that have a lot of synergy with cheap cards or can be built around a specific strategy that doesn't require expensive pieces.

Choosing a Budget-Friendly Commander

One of the best ways to save money when building a Commander deck is to choose a commander that doesn't require expensive support cards. For example, a commander like Krenko, Mob Boss can be quite powerful with just a few cheap cards that generate tokens. Similarly, Muldrotha, the Gravetide can recursionally reuse cheap enchantments and artifacts to great effect.

Another strategy is to choose a commander that has a lot of synergy with common or uncommon cards. For instance, Derevi, Empyrial Tactician can make use of many cheap auras and equipment to great effect. By focusing on the commander's abilities and the synergy of its supporting cast, you can create a powerful deck without breaking the bank.

Budget Mana Base

After selecting your commander, the next most expensive part of your deck will likely be the mana base. While it's tempting to cut corners here, a functional mana base is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience. Aim for a balance of cheap lands that can ramp you into your commander quickly and lands that can fix your mana.

Consider using lands that have additional effects, like Command Tower or Path of Ancestry. These can help smooth out your mana curve and provide additional value. Also, don't overlook basic lands. While they might not be exciting, they're cheap and can help ensure you have a consistent mana base.

Budget Commander Strategies

Once you've chosen your commander and established a mana base, it's time to start filling out the rest of your deck. Here are a few budget-friendly strategies to consider:

Token Strategies

Token strategies can be incredibly powerful and budget-friendly. Commanders like Krenko, Mob Boss or Padeem, Consul of Innovation can generate tokens cheaply, and there are plenty of cheap ways to make those tokens bigger, stronger, or more numerous. Additionally, tokens are often resilient to removal, making them a reliable threat.

To make the most of a token strategy, focus on cards that can manipulate, protect, or enhance your tokens. Consider including cards like Beast Within, Guttural Response, or Swords to Plowshares to protect your tokens from removal. Also, don't forget about token synergies outside of your commander, like Panharmonicon or Prowess of the Fair.

Recursion and Graveyard Synergy

Recursion strategies can be incredibly powerful and budget-friendly. Commanders like Muldrotha, the Gravetide or Sheoldred, Whispering One can recursionally reuse cheap graveyard synergies to great effect. By focusing on the graveyard, you can create a powerful engine that doesn't require expensive pieces.

To make the most of a recursion strategy, focus on cards that can manipulate the graveyard or recursionally reuse cheap graveyard synergies. Consider including cards like Buried Ruin, Crypt Ghast, or Tormod's Crypt to ensure a steady stream of graveyard fuel. Also, don't forget about graveyard synergies outside of your commander, like Phyrexian Arena or Necropotence.

Building a budget Commander deck can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to express your creativity and strategic prowess without breaking the bank. By choosing a budget-friendly commander, establishing a functional mana base, and focusing on budget-friendly strategies, you can create a powerful and engaging deck that will provide countless hours of enjoyment. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your deckbuilder and start crafting your budget Commander masterpiece today!