How To Build Your Landbase with MATH

About this video

• Video Title: How To Build Your Landbase with MATH
• Channel: Rebell Lily
• Speakers: Rebell Lily
• Duration: 00:11:17

Overview

This video explains how to determine the optimal number of lands to include in a Commander deck using mathematical principles. It argues that 43 lands is the ideal number, based on research from Magic: The Gathering pros, and provides strategies to mitigate the perceived drawbacks of a high land count, such as mana screw and flood, by incorporating utility lands, MDFCs, and cycling lands.

Key takeaways

• The Ideal Land Count: The video proposes that 43 lands is the mathematically optimal number for a Commander deck, referencing research by Magic pros Frank Karsten and Sam Black.
• Mathematical Basis: The recommendation is derived from a land ratio calculated from 40-card limited formats (17 lands out of 40 cards, or a 0.425 ratio), applied to the 100-card Commander deck size.
• Risk of Low Land Counts: Playing fewer than 40 lands significantly increases the risk of mana screw, especially by turn four, impacting deck consistency.
• Mitigating Mana Flood: Strategies to compensate for a higher land count and avoid mana flood include using land cyclers, MDFC (modal double-faced) cards, and lands with activated abilities.
• Rethinking Mana Acceleration: The video suggests that mana rocks and ramp spells should not be viewed as direct replacements for lands, as they don't guarantee land drops and are more susceptible to removal.