Your First Game

Playing to Win

At a cEDH table, the primary expectation is that everyone is playing to win. Unlike casual EDH, where "Rule Zero" often guides social gameplay, cEDH focuses on tight, optimized play with the goal of victory. Here’s what this means:

Mindset:

• Play optimally: Every move should be purposeful and calculated.

• No spite plays: Don’t target a player out of frustration or revenge.

• No king-making: If you’re going to lose, avoid actions that intentionally help another player win.

Why Play to Win?:

• It ensures fairness and keeps the focus on skill and strategy.

• It creates a highly engaging experience for all players.

• It’s not about being overly serious—it’s about respecting the competitive nature of the game.

Preparing Your Deck

A vital part of cEDH is bringing a deck that’s suited for the format. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Deck Expectations:

• Bring a competitive deck: Casual decks or preconstructed Commander decks aren’t suitable for cEDH tables.

• Communicate any limitations: If your deck has restrictions, such as being budget-friendly, let others know before the game begins.

• Know your deck: Be familiar with your win conditions, combos, and key interactions.

Tips for Deck Familiarity:

• Practice goldfishing: Solo-play your deck to understand its lines and pacing.

• Read the primer: If your deck has an online guide, review it to understand its strategy.

• Be honest about your skill level: Players are forgiving if you’re learning, but avoid prolonged turns due to lack of preparation.

The Role of Politics

Politics is an integral part of EDH, and cEDH is no exception. While the stakes are higher, political interactions remain valuable tools.

What’s Allowed:

• Negotiating plays: For example, offering not to draw from a Rhystic Study trigger in exchange for an opponent removing a major threat.

• Strategic cooperation: Collaborating temporarily to stop a player with a clear win opportunity.

What’s Not Allowed:

• Lying or deception: These behaviors erode trust and are not welcome in cEDH.

Gameplay Expectations

cEDH gameplay is defined by tight, rules-focused interactions. Here’s what to keep in mind:

Playing by the Rules:

• Players adhere to the letter of the law, meaning no shortcuts or bending rules.

• It’s your responsibility to manage your triggers and effects.

• Missed triggers are not forgiven—forgetting means the opportunity is lost.

Why This Matters:

• It ensures consistency and fairness at the table.

• It helps players develop stronger habits and skills.

Improving Your Gameplay:

• Pay attention to the board state and interactions.

• Take responsibility for remembering your own triggers and mechanics.

• Treat mistakes as learning opportunities to improve in future games.

Protecting Your Deck

Most cEDH decks include high-value cards, so proper protection is essential. Here are some recommendations:

Sleeving:

• Double sleeve your cards: This provides extra protection against wear, spills, or accidents.

• Recommended Products:

  • Dragon Shield Perfect Fit Sealable Sleeves: Inner sleeves with a sealable top for added security.

  • Dragon Shield Anti-Glare Sleeves: Ideal for webcam games to reduce reflection and improve visibility.

Wrapping Up

Congratulations! You’re now equipped with the knowledge to confidently sit down at a cEDH table. Remember, cEDH is about fun through competition, so approach the game with a positive mindset, respect for others, and a readiness to learn.