Two Fresh Ways to Experience Commander: Box League and Two-Headed Giant Play

Commander remains one of the most beloved ways to enjoy Magic: The Gathering. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a casual newcomer, the format’s blend of creativity, social interaction, and strategic depth keeps players coming back for more. Now, two innovative Commander playstyles are offering even more ways to enjoy the game: Commander Box League and Two-Headed Giant Commander Night.

These formats are designed to bring players together at local game stores through unique and engaging gameplay that rewards creativity, teamwork, and participation.

Commander Box League: Sealed Meets Singleton

What Is Commander Box League?

Commander Box League is a Limited-style take on Commander where players build a 60-card Commander deck using the contents of a single booster box. This format encourages creativity within a restricted card pool and is perfect for players who enjoy both Limited and Commander styles of play.

How It Works

• Deck Building: Open a full booster box and build a 60-card Commander deck using only those cards, plus any amount of basic lands.
  
  
• Commander Choice: Select a legendary creature or planeswalker that’s eligible to be your commander—regardless of its color identity.
  
  
• Color Rules: While your commander’s color identity matters for certain interactions, you’re not restricted to those colors when building your deck.
  
  
• Card Duplication: Unlike regular Commander, multiple copies of the same card are allowed.
  
  
• Gameplay: Games are played in pods of three to four players, following standard Commander multiplayer rules like 40 starting life and tracking commander damage.
  
  

Why Play?

This format is an exciting way to experience a new set, explore cards you might not otherwise use, and create innovative decks in a level playing field. It’s perfect for casual players and brewing enthusiasts who love discovering powerful synergies in a Limited pool.

Two-Headed Giant Commander Night: Partner Up and Battle Together

What Is Two-Headed Giant Commander?

This team-based Commander format is designed for two-player teams to battle against each other in casual, social games. It’s a great entry point for newer players and a fun twist for seasoned Commander veterans.

How It Works

• Teams: Two players form a team, each with their own Commander deck.
  
  
• Shared Life: Each team shares a life total and takes turns together.
  
  
• Gameplay: All the usual Commander rules apply, but with added team strategy and synergy.
  
  
• Flexibility: Come with a friend or be paired with someone at the event.
  
  

Why Play?

This format is ideal for anyone who wants to learn the game alongside a partner, introduce friends to Commander, or enjoy more cooperative gameplay. It’s especially welcoming to players who enjoy casual, supportive environments and team dynamics.

Participation Promos and Event Support

Both formats are part of a growing movement to expand and support in-store Commander play. Participating game stores often offer exclusive promo cards to reward players for joining in. These promos are typically non-foil, with premium versions available at select stores.

Events like these are a great way to connect with your local Magic community, explore new strategies, and enjoy the game in exciting new formats.

Conclusion: More Ways to Play, More Reasons to Return

Whether you're opening a box and brewing on the fly or teaming up for two-on-two action, these new Commander experiences offer something fresh for everyone. They help foster a welcoming, inclusive environment and provide creative new challenges for players of all skill levels.

Check with your local game store to find out when these events are scheduled—and bring a friend along for the fun. It’s time to experience Commander in a whole new way.