The Weekly Draw - Final Fantasy Hits & Budget Wins

We took last week off for the U.S. holiday, but we're back with a stacked issue full of standout commanders, smarter deckbuilding strategies, and community threads.

From Final Fantasy rankings to budget gems and toolbox tech, there’s something in here for every kind of deckbuilder.

Grab a coffee and lets get started!

Building Beyond Your Commander

Deck Driver MTG makes the case for building decks that don’t revolve entirely around the commander. Treating them as value pieces rather than engines creates smoother games and fewer recasts. A smart approach for more consistent 99s. LINK

Toolboxing: The Secret Sauce for Consistency

3/3 Elk shares how toolboxing turns tutors into flexible problem solvers instead of combo pieces. Targeted tutors help smooth out weak spots without turning every game into a scripted finish. LINK

Underrated Commanders Worth Your Attention

The Commander's Quarters highlights off-meta commanders like Teysa Karlov and Yisan. These picks offer powerful play patterns that aren’t on every table, making them great options for shaking up your next pod. LINK

Final Fantasy's Standout Commanders

The Command Zone breaks down top-tier legends from the Final Fantasy set, including Vivi Ornitier and Celis Rune Knights. Storm, aggro, and graveyard synergies all show up strong across these new designs. LINK

Bracket 2 Deck Building Challenges

The Trinket Mage examines whether removing a few bombs really brings a deck down a bracket. With an emphasis on pacing and interaction, this is a thoughtful take on how to build more honestly for casual play. LINK

The Ur-Dragon Claims the Throne

The Ur-Dragon has officially overtaken Atraxa as the most popular commander, thanks in part to recent Dragonstorm support. Whether this reign lasts or not, it's a big moment for dragon fans. LINK

Deck Building Level-Up Moments

A Reddit thread shares key turning points in players’ brewing journeys — from rethinking mana curves to embracing synergy over raw power. Great insights whether you're new to EDH or refining your craft. LINK

Poor Threat Assessment Tales

Hilarious and painful stories from games where the real threat went unchecked. A fun reminder that reading the board correctly can be just as important as card selection. LINK

Chess Clock for Commander

After a brutal 11-hour cEDH match, one player built a free chess clock app just for Commander. Ideal for tournaments or long-winded playgroups, it helps keep things moving without feeling rushed. LINK

Want to Share Your Work?

Do you write online about Commander? Publish deck tech primers, brewing tips, or format takes? I’d love to feature your work in future issues of The Weekly Draw or highlight it on the EDHMatch blog.

Reply to this email or send a link my way, I’m always looking to spotlight creative voices in the community.

Budget EDH Cards That Held Their Value

The Trinket Mage highlights once-premium staples that now sit under $5, including Future Sight, Elspeth, and Oblivion Stone. These cards offer serious power on a budget — great pickups for value-minded brewers. LINK

Final Fantasy Commander Rankings

Based Deck Department ranks every commander from the Final Fantasy set, with standout picks like Sid, Timeless Artificer and Ardbert, Warrior of Darkness. A solid resource whether you're brewing for flavor or function. LINK

Boros Goblins Get New Support

MTG Goldfish covers the latest Boros goblin tools from Tarkir: Dragonstorm, including Stadium Headliner and Frontline Rush. Strong new synergies give goblin tribal a fun, aggressive upgrade. LINK

Soul Sisters Equipment Upgrade

Excalibur the Second is a one-mana equipment that slots perfectly into Soul Sisters-style decks. This Final Fantasy card turns lifegain into pressure — a great upgrade for life-focused brewers. LINK

Budget Commander Gems Under $1

The Commander's Quarters shares 10 budget cards that punch well above their price tag. Picks like Dragon Arch and Gilded Lotus offer high-impact plays for literal pocket change. LINK

That’s all for this week’s draw! If you found a new commander, brewing insight, or budget pickup in this issue, forward it to a friend or share it with your playgroup.

Note: If you’ve written a deck tech, strategy post, or anything Commander-related you'd like featured in a future issue, hit reply and send it my way, I’d love to help share your work.

— Mark
EDHMatch & The Weekly Draw