As a Magic The Gathering player, I know how overwhelming it can be to navigate the world of accessories. With so many options available, it can be difficult to determine which ones are necessary and which ones are just nice to have.
In this article, I will break down the essential accessories every MTG player should have, as well as some optional ones that can enhance your gameplay experience.
Essential MTG Accessories
There are a few accessories that every Magic The Gathering player should have in their arsenal.
First and foremost, you’ll need a deck box to protect your cards from damage and keep them organized.
Sleeves are also a must-have, as they protect your cards from wear and tear and make it easier to shuffle your deck.
A playmat is another essential accessory, as it provides a clean, non-slip surface for gameplay and protects your cards from dirt and debris.
Organizational Tools
Keeping your cards organized is key to being a successful MTG player.
Card binders are a great way to store your collection and keep it organized, while dividers can help you separate your cards by color, set, or rarity.
Deck boxes with built-in compartments are also a useful organizational tool, allowing you to keep your tokens, dice, and other accessories in one place.
Key Takeaways – What Accessories Do I Need for Magic The Gathering
- Every MTG player should have a deck box, sleeves, and a playmat.
- Organizational tools like card binders and dividers can help keep your collection organized.
- Optional accessories like dice, playmats, and collector’s gear can enhance your gameplay experience.
Essential MTG Accessories
As a Magic The Gathering player, there are a few essential accessories that you need to have in your arsenal to protect your cards and enhance your gameplay experience.
In this section, I will discuss the top three essential MTG accessories that every player should have: card sleeves, deck boxes, and playmats.
Card Sleeves
Card sleeves are a must-have accessory for every MTG player. They protect your cards from damage, dirt, and wear and tear.
They also make shuffling easier and help prevent marked cards.
When looking for card sleeves, it is important to choose high-quality sleeves that are durable and fit your cards perfectly.
Ultra Pro is a popular brand that offers a wide range of card sleeves that are perfect for MTG players.
Deck Boxes
Deck boxes are another essential accessory for MTG players. They keep your cards organized and protected when you are not using them.
When choosing a deck box, look for one that is sturdy, durable, and has enough space to hold your deck, sideboard, and tokens.
Ultra Pro is once again a trusted brand that offers a variety of deck boxes that are perfect for MTG players.
Playmats
Playmats are not just for aesthetics, they also protect your cards and provide a smooth surface for playing.
They also help you keep your cards organized and prevent them from sliding around during gameplay.
When choosing a playmat, look for one that is made of high-quality materials and has a non-slip backing.
Ultra Pro offers a wide range of playmats that are perfect for MTG players.
Organizational Tools
Keeping your Magic The Gathering cards organized is a crucial part of the game. It helps you find specific cards more easily and keeps them in good condition.
Here are some organizational tools that I recommend:
Binders
Binders are a great way to organize and store your Magic The Gathering cards. They come in different sizes and styles, but the most common ones are the 3-ring binders with 9-pocket pages.
These pages are perfect for storing individual cards, and you can easily flip through them to find the card you need.
When choosing a binder, make sure it is made of high-quality materials that will protect your cards from damage.
Look for binders that are acid-free, PVC-free, and have a sturdy cover.
Some binders even come with a velvet interior for added protection and a sophisticated look.
Card Storage
In addition to binders, there are other card storage solutions that you can use to keep your Magic The Gathering cards organized.
One popular option is cardboard storage boxes. These boxes come in different sizes and can hold hundreds of cards.
You can even use dividers to separate your cards by set, color, rarity, or card type.
Another option is deck boxes. These boxes are designed to hold a single deck of cards, but they are also great for storing individual cards.
They come in different sizes and styles, and some even come with dividers to help you organize your cards.
Gameplay Enhancements
When it comes to playing Magic The Gathering, there are a few accessories that can enhance your gameplay experience. These accessories are not only practical but also add an extra level of fun to the game.
Life Counters
Keeping track of your life total is essential in Magic The Gathering. While you can simply use pen and paper, having a dedicated life counter can make things easier.
There are many different types of life counters available, ranging from simple spin-down dice to electronic life counters.
Some even come with additional features like built-in dice or storage compartments for tokens.
Tokens
Tokens are an essential part of Magic The Gathering gameplay. They represent creatures, artifacts, and other game elements that are not represented by actual cards.
While you can use anything as a token, having dedicated tokens can make things easier and more fun.
There are many different types of tokens available, ranging from simple cardboard tokens to custom-made metal tokens.
You can also find tokens that match the theme of your deck or favorite colors.
Dice
Dice are also an important accessory in Magic The Gathering. They are used for a variety of purposes, such as randomizing effects, determining combat damage, and keeping track of counters.
There are many different types of dice available, ranging from standard six-sided dice to specialized twenty-sided dice.
Some players prefer to use custom-made dice that match the theme of their deck or favorite colors.
Collector’s Gear
As a Magic The Gathering collector, I understand the importance of protecting and displaying my collection. There are a few essential accessories that every collector should invest in to ensure the longevity and safety of their cards.
Protective Cases
Protective cases are a must-have for collectors, especially for rare and valuable cards.
There are different types of protective cases available in the market, including top loaders, sleeves, and magnetic cases.
Top loaders are a great option for storing single cards, while sleeves are ideal for bulk storage.
Magnetic cases are the best option for storing multiple cards as they provide extra protection against dust and moisture.
When choosing a protective case, make sure to consider the size and type of card you are storing. Lands, for example, require larger cases than regular cards.
It is also important to invest in acid-free and PVC-free cases to avoid any damage to your cards.
Display Options
Displaying your collection is a great way to showcase your rare and valuable cards.
There are different display options available in the market, including binders, portfolios, and frames.
Binders are a great option for collectors who want to store their cards in an organized and accessible manner.
Portfolios are ideal for displaying your collection on the go, while frames are perfect for showcasing your favorite cards on your wall.
When choosing a display option, make sure to consider the size and type of card you are displaying.
Backpacks and carrying cases are also great options for collectors who want to take their collection on the go.
Portable Solutions
When I’m playing Magic The Gathering, I like to have all my accessories with me. That’s why I always carry a backpack or a carrying case. Here are some options for portable solutions:
Backpacks
Backpacks are a great way to carry your accessories. They are comfortable to wear and can fit a lot of items.
When choosing a backpack, make sure it has enough compartments to organize your cards, dice, and other accessories.
Also, consider the size of the backpack, as you don’t want it to be too big or too small.
One backpack that I recommend is the Ultra Pro Backpack. It has several compartments and can hold up to eight decks of cards.
It also has a padded back panel and straps for added comfort.
Another option is the Pirate Lab Backpack, which has a customizable foam tray that can fit your cards and accessories.
Carrying Cases
Carrying cases are another option for portable solutions. They are usually smaller than backpacks but can still hold a lot of items.
When choosing a carrying case, make sure it has enough space for your cards and accessories. Also, consider the material of the case, as you want it to be durable and protective.
One carrying case that I recommend is the Ultra Pro Satin Tower. It can hold up to 100 sleeved cards and has a compartment for dice and tokens.
It also has a satin finish and a secure magnetic closure.
Another option is the Ultimate Guard Sidewinder. It has a unique design that allows you to access your cards from both sides.
It can hold up to 80 double-sleeved cards and has a compartment for dice and tokens.
Deck Customization
When customizing your Magic The Gathering deck, there are a few things to consider. In this section, I will cover two important aspects of deck customization: Booster Packs and Commander Decks.
Booster Packs
Booster Packs are a great way to add new cards to your deck. They contain 15 cards, including a rare or mythic rare card, three uncommon cards, and ten common cards.
In addition, you may also get a foil card, which is a special version of a card with a shiny finish.
If you’re looking to add some variety to your deck, Booster Packs are a great option. They are also a good way to get cards from a specific set, which can be useful if you’re trying to build a deck around a particular theme.
Commander Decks
Commander Decks are preconstructed decks that are designed for the Commander format. Each deck contains 100 cards, including a special legendary creature that serves as the deck’s commander.
Commander Decks are a great way to get started with the Commander format. They are also a good way to get cards that are specifically designed for the format, which can be difficult to find otherwise.
Multiplayer Gaming Accessories
When playing Magic The Gathering with multiple players, there are a few accessories that can make the experience more enjoyable and efficient. Here are some of the most popular multiplayer gaming accessories:
Playmat Tubes
Playmat tubes are a great way to protect your playmat from damage during transportation. They come in different sizes and materials, but most are made of durable plastic and have a cap that screws on to keep your playmat secure.
Some playmat tubes even have a shoulder strap for easy carrying.
Multi-Deck Boxes
If you’re playing with multiple decks, a multi-deck box can help you keep them organized and protected. These boxes usually have several compartments, each of which can hold a deck of cards.
They are also designed to fit sleeved cards, so you don’t have to worry about damaging your cards during transportation.
Alternative Game Accessories
As a Magic The Gathering player, I have found that some accessories used in other Trading Card Games (TCGs) can also be useful in MTG. Here are a few alternative game accessories that I have found useful:
Pokémon TCG
While the Pokémon TCG may seem like a different game entirely, some of its accessories can be useful for MTG players.
For example, Pokémon TCG players use coin flips to determine certain game effects. I have found that using a coin flip for certain MTG cards, such as Krark’s Thumb, can be helpful.
Additionally, Pokémon TCG players use damage counters to keep track of damage dealt to their Pokémon. In MTG, these counters can be used to keep track of +1/+1 counters or other counters on creatures.
Other TCGs
Other TCGs, such as Yu-Gi-Oh! and Cardfight!! Vanguard, have accessories that can be useful for MTG players as well.
For example, some Yu-Gi-Oh! players use card sleeves with a matte finish that reduces glare and makes cards easier to read. These sleeves can also be useful for MTG players, especially when playing in brightly lit areas.
Additionally, some TCG players use playmats to protect their cards and provide a designated play area. MTG players can also use playmats to protect their cards and keep them in good condition.
Related Reading: Magic The Gathering Accessories
20 Essential Magic the Gathering Accessories for Every Player – Discover the must-have accessories for any Magic player, from playmats to sleeves and dice, enhancing your game experience.
What Do I Need for MTG? Essential Supplies for Magic – A curated selection of the best MTG accessories for 2023, ensuring stylish and efficient gameplay.
MTG Product Guide | Magic: The Gathering – Navigate the world of Magic products, whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned deck builder.
What Should MTG Beginner Buy? – Card Game Base – Guidance for MTG beginners on building a 60-card casual deck, the original and still popular way to play.
Best MTG Accessories – Find Products that Last Long – Card Game Base – Insights on selecting durable MTG deck boxes, crucial for protecting and transporting your deck.
6 Important & Affordable MTG Supplies | Magic the Gathering – YouTube – Video coverage on six affordable supplies and accessories to kickstart your MTG journey.
Frequently Asked Questions – What Accessories Do I Need for Magic The Gathering
What are the essential items for a beginner in Magic: The Gathering?
As a beginner, you will need a few things to get started with Magic: The Gathering.
Firstly, you will need a deck of cards. You can buy pre-built decks or build your own.
You will also need card sleeves to protect your cards from wear and tear. A deck box is essential to keep your cards organized and safe.
A playmat is also a great addition to your setup, as it provides a smooth surface to play on and helps keep your cards clean.
Which sleeves are recommended for protecting MTG cards?
There are many different types of card sleeves available, but the most recommended ones for MTG are Ultra Pro and Dragon Shield.
Both brands offer high-quality, durable sleeves that will protect your cards from scratches, spills, and other damage.
What are the best storage options for a growing MTG card collection?
As your collection grows, you will need a way to store all your cards.
Card binders are a great option for storing your most valuable cards, while cardboard boxes are perfect for storing bulk cards.
You can also use plastic storage containers or drawers to keep your cards organized.
How important are playmats for MTG gameplay, and which should I consider?
Playmats are not essential, but they do provide a smooth surface to play on and help keep your cards clean.
There are many different types of playmats available, but the most popular ones are made by Ultra Pro and Inked Gaming. When choosing a playmat, consider the size, design, and material.
Can you recommend any life counters that enhance the MTG playing experience?
There are many different types of life counters available, but the most popular ones are spin-down dice and digital life counters.
Spin-down dice are easy to use and come in a variety of colors, while digital life counters are more accurate and convenient.
What are some must-have MTG Commander format specific accessories?
If you play MTG Commander format, there are a few accessories that are essential.
Firstly, you will need a Commander deck box to keep your deck safe and organized.
You will also need tokens to represent creatures and other game elements.
Finally, a playmat is recommended to provide a smooth surface to play on and help keep your cards clean.
