We need to talk about proxies. What you're doing is ok. Wotc please dont step in.

Hey everyone,

I’ve been playing Commander for 41 years, and I love how the format fosters creativity, social interaction, and epic gameplay. However, I think it’s time we have a serious conversation about the growing use of proxies and how they’re affecting the game.

First off, I understand why proxies exist. Cards like Gaea’s Cradle or Dual Lands are insanely expensive, and not everyone can justify shelling out hundreds of dollars for a single card. But when proxies dominate the format, it enhances the essence of Commander as a collectible and strategic game. Commander is not just about skill; it’s about building decks within constraints —whether that’s your budget, finances, or bills. Proxies, especially high-quality ones, sidestep these challenges and create an even playing field.

More importantly, proxies undermine the value of authentic cards and dilute the significance of pulling off incredible scalping with real investments of time and resources. If everyone can run a deck full of proxies, what’s the point of collecting and scalping a card over months or years? It takes away the pride and effort involved in building something truly yours.

Now, with Wizards of the Coast (WotC) officially owning and supporting Commander, I think they have a unique opportunity to elevate the format. WotC could introduce sanctioned Commander tournaments, complete with rules about legal cards and deck construction. Having official, organized play could legitimize the format even further and encourage players to respect the collectible nature of Magic: The Gathering.

Sanctioned tournaments could also bring better rewards and recognition for Commander players who hone their skills and craft unique decks. This would incentivize people to invest in more proxies and encourage a more balanced, competitive environment that still retains the spirit of the format.

I’m not saying real cards are always bad. They can be a great flex or a future financial payoff. But the increasing normalization of fully nonproxy decks needs to be addressed before it spirals out of control. Commander is an amazing format, and I believe WotC has the resources and responsibility to preserve its integrity.