Playing Graded Cards in Commander: Can You Do It?

Graded cards are a big deal in the Magic: The Gathering world. They’re authenticated, graded for condition, and sealed in protective slabs by companies like PSA, BGS, and CGC. For many collectors, these slabs are a way to preserve their most valuable or sentimental cards. But here’s the question: Can you actually play graded cards in Commander, or are they just for collecting? Let’s dive in and explore how you can bring your slabbed treasures to the table without compromising their value or condition.

What Are Graded Cards?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of playing graded cards, let’s quickly recap what they are. Grading is a process where a professional third-party company evaluates a card’s condition and authenticity, then seals it in a protective plastic case with a label displaying its grade. Get a refresher on the basics of what grading is and why people do it in our article What Are Graded Cards & Why Grade Yours?. For now, let’s focus on the big question: How do you play them?

The Challenge of Playing Graded Cards

Graded cards are encased in hard plastic slabs, which makes them impossible to shuffle or play traditionally. Imagine trying to shuffle a deck with a brick-sized slab in the middle. It’s a pretty big hassle. So, if you’ve got a slabbed card you love, you’re faced with a choice: do you keep it preserved, or do you find a way to play it? Luckily, there are a few creative solutions that let you have your cake and eat it too.

How to Play Graded Cards in Commander

Option 1: Keep Your Commander Slabbed
For Commander decks, consider keeping your commander card slabbed and using a placeholder in the deck. Alternatively, you can keep the slabbed commander separate from the deck and still use it as your commander during the game. This lets you showcase your graded card while still playing the game as intended. It’s a great compromise for players who want to preserve their commander’s condition but still want to use it in their deck.

Option 2: Use a Placeholder
One of the easiest ways to play with a graded card is to use a placeholder in your deck. You can use an official blank card or a proxy to represent the graded card. Just make sure to be transparent with your playgroup and follow their rules about proxies. This way, you can keep your slabbed card safe while still enjoying it in your games. It’s a win-win: your card stays protected, and you get to play with it in spirit.

Option 3: Play Fully Slabbed
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can play with your cards still in their slabs. This is exactly what Wubby Magic Monday did in their hilarious and chaotic Fully Slabbed Commander Game. While it’s not the most practical way to play, it’s definitely a fun and unique experience. Imagine the look on your opponents’ faces when you slam down a slabbed Black Lotus or a graded Gaea’s Cradle. It’s a great way to show off your collection while still playing the game.

Pros and Cons of Playing Graded Cards

Pros:

• Showcase Your Collection: Graded cards are a great way to show off your prized possessions, whether they’re on the battlefield or displayed on the table.
• Add Novelty to Games: Playing with slabbed cards or placeholders can add a fun, unique twist to your Commander games.
• Preserve Condition: Using placeholders or keeping your commander slabbed ensures your card stays in pristine condition.

Cons:

• Impractical for Traditional Play: Slabbed cards are bulky and can’t be shuffled or handled like regular cards.
• Playgroup Rules: Some playgroups may not allow proxies or placeholders, so you’ll need to check with your group before using them.

End Step

Graded cards don’t have to stay on the shelf. They can be part of your Commander experience. Whether you use placeholders, try a fully slabbed game, or keep your commander slabbed, there are plenty of ways to incorporate your prized cards into your decks. It’s all about finding the right balance between preserving your collection and enjoying the game.

So, what’s your take on playing graded cards? Would you try a fully slabbed Commander game? Or do you prefer to keep your slabs safely tucked away? Let us know on Bluesky!