Standard tends to be the most dynamic and unpredictable format, because rotations tend to completely change the way it is played. This means that every year, the older sets will not be allowed in the format while the newest set(s) will be. After a recent change in the format, Wizards of the Coast (the company in charge of the game), decided to make sets rotate every year. Standard: This competitive format plays cards from the most recent sets. Decide which one best fits you and your needs. I will list some of the most popular formats that people play in. What type of player are you? Are you a more casual player looking for some fun in your downtime? Do you want to climb the ranks of the competitive community and be the top local, national, or even international player? What you want out of Magic will determine the format best for you. If you don't have cards then you will need money, or a generous friend, to get cardsĪnywhere from 15 minutes to a few days, depending on your skill level and dedication to the deck-building process. Wherever you are in your quest for glory, I guarantee that this guide will help you become a better deck-builder.Ģ. Or possibly you are somewhat more experienced with the game, but want some more help with building good decks. Maybe you haven't and you want to build a simple deck to take to your local game shop to gain more experience playing the game. You probably have played a bit with friends or family and are looking to test your deck-building abilities. So, you have learned about Magic: The Gathering. It's great and goes over the essential rules that you need to know to play the game. I am under the impression that you know a little about the basic rules of the game.