Hey guys! Are you ready to dive into the exciting world of Commander MTG online? Whether you're a seasoned Commander player or new to the format, playing online opens up a whole new realm of possibilities. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get started, from choosing the right platform to mastering online etiquette. Let's get started!

Choosing Your Platform

First things first, you need to decide where you want to play Commander online. Several platforms offer different experiences, so let's explore the most popular options:

Magic: The Gathering Arena (MTG Arena)

While MTG Arena is primarily focused on Standard and other constructed formats, it occasionally offers special events and modes that support Commander-like gameplay. Although it's not a dedicated Commander platform, it’s still a great place to start, especially if you're already familiar with the interface. Keep an eye out for events like ”Brawl”, which is similar to Commander but uses Standard-legal cards and allows only one copy of each non-basic land card in your deck. MTG Arena's user-friendly interface and automated rules enforcement make it an excellent choice for beginners. The platform also offers a tutorial mode to help new players learn the basics of Magic: The Gathering. However, the card pool is limited to what's available in the Standard format, so you won't have access to the vast library of cards available in paper Commander.

Pros:

• User-friendly interface
• Automated rules enforcement
• Good for beginners
• Available on multiple devices

Cons:

• Limited card pool (Standard-legal cards only)
• Not a dedicated Commander platform
• Less flexibility in deck building

Magic Online (MTGO)

Magic Online (MTGO) is the original digital platform for Magic: The Gathering, and it offers a comprehensive Commander experience. MTGO has almost every card ever printed, giving you unparalleled deck-building options. You can join Commander games in the casual lobby or participate in leagues for more competitive play. MTGO's interface is a bit dated compared to MTG Arena, but it's a powerful tool for serious Commander players. One of the main advantages of MTGO is its robust trading system. You can buy, sell, and trade cards with other players, allowing you to acquire the specific cards you need for your decks. MTGO also hosts regular Commander tournaments and events, providing opportunities to test your skills and win prizes.

Pros:

• Vast card pool (almost every card ever printed)
• Dedicated Commander lobbies and leagues
• Robust trading system
• Competitive play opportunities

Cons:

• Outdated interface
• Steeper learning curve
• Cards have real-world value, which can be expensive

SpellTable

SpellTable is a web-based platform that allows you to play Commander using your physical cards via webcam. It’s a fantastic option if you enjoy the social aspect of Commander and prefer using your paper collection. SpellTable provides tools to help you track life totals, commander damage, and other game elements. It also integrates with various deck-building websites, making it easy to import your decklists. SpellTable relies on players to enforce the rules, so it's best suited for playing with friends or in established communities where everyone is familiar with Commander rules and etiquette. The platform's simplicity and focus on the social experience make it a popular choice for many Commander players.

Pros:

• Play with your physical cards
• Great for social games with friends
• Life total tracking and other helpful tools
• Free to use

Cons:

• Requires a webcam and good lighting
• Relies on players to enforce rules
• Can be challenging to play with strangers

Other Platforms

Besides the main platforms, several other options are available for playing Commander online. Discord servers often host games using tools like Cockatrice or XMage, which are free, open-source platforms that allow you to play with any card. These platforms require more setup and manual rules enforcement, but they offer complete freedom in deck building and gameplay. Some online communities also organize Commander games through forums or social media groups, using various tools to facilitate gameplay.

Setting Up Your Account and Downloading the Software

Once you've chosen a platform, the next step is to create an account and download any necessary software. Here’s a quick guide for each platform:

MTG Arena

1. Download: Head to the official MTG Arena website and download the game client for your operating system (Windows or macOS).
2. Install: Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to install the game.
3. Create an Account: Launch the game and create a Wizards of the Coast account. If you already have one, simply log in.
4. Tutorial: Complete the tutorial to familiarize yourself with the game's interface and basic mechanics.

MTGO

1. Download: Visit the Magic Online website and download the MTGO client.
2. Install: Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to install the game.
3. Create an Account: Launch the game and create a new account. Note that MTGO requires a one-time fee to create an account.
4. Tutorial: Complete the tutorial to learn the basics of the MTGO interface and how to navigate the platform.

SpellTable

1. Website: SpellTable is a web-based platform, so there's no software to download. Simply visit the SpellTable website in your browser.
2. Create an Account: Sign up for a free account using your email address or Google account.
3. Setup Webcam: Ensure your webcam is properly set up and that you have good lighting. Test your webcam within the SpellTable settings to ensure it's working correctly.

Building Your Commander Deck Online

Now comes the fun part: building your Commander deck! Whether you're using MTG Arena, MTGO, or SpellTable, the process is similar, but there are a few key differences.

MTG Arena

1. Access Deck Builder: In MTG Arena, navigate to the