How Many Board Wipes Should You Include in Your EDH Deck?
When constructing a deck for the Commander format, also known as Elder Dragon Highlander (EDH), finding the right balance of cards is crucial. One key aspect to consider is the number of board wipes you should include. Board wipes are powerful spells that clear the entire playing field, removing all creatures, artifacts, and enchantments in play. In this article, we will explore the importance of board wipes in EDH and discuss how many of these spells you should include in your deck.
The Importance of Board Wipes
EDH matches often consist of multiple players, each with their own strategies and powerful creatures. Over time, the board can become overwhelmed with threats that are difficult to deal with individually. That’s where board wipes come in handy. By playing a board wipe, you can level the playing field, removing all threats and creating a fresh start.
Board wipes not only provide a solution to overwhelming board states, but they also allow players to regain control of the game. They can bring balance to the table by deterring opponents from overcommitting to the board, knowing that a well-timed board wipe can reset the game. Additionally, they can disrupt opposing strategies that rely heavily on specific creatures or artifacts.
Finding the Right Balance
While board wipes are undeniably powerful, including too many of them in your deck can be detrimental. Since these spells often come at a high mana cost, having too many can lead to clunky opening hands and dead draws in the later stages of the game. On the other hand, including too few board wipes can leave you helpless against aggressive strategies or opponents who have already established a dominant board presence.
As a general rule of thumb, it is recommended to include around 4-8 board wipes in your EDH deck. This range allows you to have access to board wipes throughout the game without sacrificing the diversity of your deck. Keep in mind that this number can vary based on your deck’s strategy, the power level of your playgroup, and personal preferences.
Consider Your Deck’s Strategy
The number of board wipes you include should align with your deck’s overall strategy. Some EDH decks focus on more aggressive strategies, aiming to quickly overwhelm opponents with creatures and deal damage. In these decks, you may want to include fewer board wipes, focusing more on maintaining momentum and applying pressure.
However, if your deck leans towards a slower and more controlling strategy, it might be wise to include more board wipes. These decks often seek to control the board and favor a longer game plan, where resetting the board can be a powerful tool to disrupt opposing strategies and secure victory.
Consider the Power Level of Your Playgroup
It is essential to consider the power level of your playgroup when deciding on the number of board wipes to include. If you regularly play against highly aggressive decks or decks with overwhelming board presence, including a higher number of board wipes can be crucial for survival. On the other hand, if your playgroup leans towards more casual and creature-light strategies, you might be able to get away with fewer board wipes.
By understanding the dynamics of your playgroup, you can tailor your deck to provide the most enjoyable and balanced experience for everyone involved. Discuss with your playgroup and gauge the average number of board wipes they include in their decks. Adjust your deck accordingly to maintain parity and keep the games engaging for all players.
Conclusion
Board wipes play a significant role in EDH decks, allowing players to reset the game, regain control, and disrupt opponents’ strategies. However, finding the right balance is key, as including too many or too few board wipes can hinder your deck’s performance. Aim for around 4-8 board wipes, considering your deck’s strategy and the power level of your playgroup. Striking this balance will enhance your deck’s overall effectiveness and ensure enjoyable gameplay experiences in the Commander format.