✦MULLIGAN MAGE Start here
A prepared deck of fantasy trading cards arranged for play

Step 5 • Beginner buying guide

Buy less.
Play sooner.

Choose a format first, then buy the smallest ready-to-play product that fits it. You do not need a binder full of cards to begin.

Your first purchase

Start with how
you want to play.

Buying random packs first can leave you with interesting cards but no complete deck. Pick your table, then use the matching starting point below.

1

Try before buying

Magic Arena

Play the free tutorial and starter matches. It is the easiest way to learn what colors and strategies you enjoy before spending money.

Visit Magic Arena
2

Two-player start

Starter Kit

Choose this when you and a friend want to learn together. It includes two ready-to-play decks, so your first game needs almost no setup.

Browse Starter Kits
3

Four-player start

Commander precon

Choose a preconstructed Commander deck when your friends already play Commander. It is complete, playable, and easy to upgrade later.

Browse Commander decks

Keep it simple

What you actually need.

A deck is the only essential purchase. These extras protect it and make tabletop games easier to track.

Paid links: Mulligan Mage may earn a commission if you buy through an Amazon link below, at no extra cost to you.

Essential

Card sleeves

Use one matching set for the entire deck. Sleeves protect cards and make repeated shuffling much easier.

View sleeve option (paid link)
Useful

Deck box

A simple box keeps your deck together and protects it in a backpack. Choose one that fits sleeved cards.

View deck box (paid link)
Optional

Playmat

A playmat gives cards a clean surface and makes them easier to pick up, but it can wait until later.

View playmat (paid link)

Spend with a plan

Skip the common
beginner traps.

Do not start with a booster box.

Opening packs is fun, but random cards rarely form a balanced deck. Buy packs for the experience, not as your main path to a first deck.

Do not chase expensive upgrades yet.

Play several games before replacing cards. Your first matches will show what the deck actually needs.

Do not buy for the wrong format.

A strong card can still be illegal or unsuitable at your table. Confirm the format and your group’s expectations first.

Shopping disclosure

Mulligan Mage may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through marked links, at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Step 6 • Put your plan together

Build your deck
with purpose.

Now that you know what to buy, learn how lands, card draw, removal, and your main strategy fit into a balanced deck.

Start deckbuilding