The latest updates to MTG Commander Brackets were officially announced in October 2025, bringing significant refinements to one of Magic: The Gathering’s most popular formats. These adjustments, introduced by Wizards of the Coast, aim to make Commander games fairer, more transparent, and easier for players to match decks of similar power levels. For U.S. players, this new structure offers a clearer way to communicate game expectations and balance within playgroups.
What Are Commander Brackets?
MTG Commander Brackets are a tier-based system created to categorize decks and gameplay experiences within the Commander format. First introduced earlier in 2025, the brackets system was designed to help players better understand the relative power level of their decks and avoid mismatched games.
There are five official brackets in the current system:
- Bracket 1 – Social: Casual and theme-based decks with minimal infinite combos or power cards.
- Bracket 2 – Core: Slightly optimized decks, often based on preconstructed themes or lightly modified precons.
- Bracket 3 – Upgraded: Well-tuned decks featuring more synergies and stronger cards.
- Bracket 4 – Optimized: Powerful decks capable of fast combos and advanced strategies.
- Bracket 5 – cEDH/Competitive: Fully competitive decks designed for efficiency and speed, often ending games in just a few turns.
Each bracket reflects the deck’s strength, average game length, and how competitive the gameplay feels. The brackets help players communicate expectations before the match even begins, reducing frustration and ensuring fairer, more enjoyable games.
Key Changes in the October 2025 Update
The October 2025 Commander Brackets update introduced major refinements. Here’s what changed and why it matters:
1. Refined Bracket Definitions
The biggest update involves clearer definitions for each bracket. Wizards added average turn estimates for every bracket to help players anticipate game length. For example, Bracket 1 games might last 12 or more turns, while Bracket 5 games may end in 3–5 turns.
Bracket 2 has also been redefined. Previously tied closely to “preconstructed” decks, it now focuses on deck performance rather than deck origin. This change acknowledges that not all precons are created equal — some are nearly Bracket 3 in strength right out of the box.
Another key update: tutor restrictions have been lifted. Previously, some brackets discouraged tutors (cards that search your deck), but this restriction was removed to simplify deck-building and allow more flexibility across levels.
2. Game Changers List Overhaul
The “Game Changers” list is a curated set of cards identified as significantly impacting Commander balance. The October update removed ten cards from that list, signaling that those cards no longer distort gameplay as severely as before.
Notable removals include:
- Expropriate
- Jin-Gitaxias, Core Augur
- Sway of the Stars
- Vorinclex, Voice of Hunger
- Food Chain
- Deflecting Swat
Additionally, several legendary commanders previously labeled as Game Changers were also delisted, including:
- Yuriko, the Tiger’s Shadow
- Urza, High Lord Artificer
- Kinnan, Bonder Prodigy
- Winota, Joiner of Forces
The removal of these names shows that the Commander community and Format Panel are re-evaluating how much weight these cards truly hold in modern gameplay.
3. No New Bans, Just Structural Adjustments
Importantly, no new cards were banned in this update. Instead, Wizards focused on restructuring the framework of the brackets system to make it easier for players to self-categorize their decks.
This means that while certain powerful cards might still feel overwhelming in lower brackets, the responsibility falls more on playgroups to set expectations. Players are encouraged to use the bracket system as a guide rather than a rigid rulebook.
Why These Changes Matter for U.S. Commander Players
For the U.S. Commander community — from local game stores to casual kitchen-table circles — these updates offer several benefits:
- Clearer Expectations: With defined turn estimates and more flexible guidelines, players can choose decks that match their playgroup’s tempo.
- Balanced Matchups: Reduced confusion about deck power leads to smoother games and fewer mismatches between casual and competitive decks.
- Tutor Freedom: Lifting tutor restrictions allows players to explore card search mechanics across all brackets, making the game more creative and accessible.
- Community Consistency: Many U.S. local game stores are expected to start using Commander Brackets in events, improving organization and fairness.
The new structure also aligns with Wizards’ broader effort to standardize Commander experiences while still preserving the social, player-driven spirit that makes the format unique.
How to Adjust Your Deck for the New Brackets
If you’re a Commander player, here’s how to adapt to the October 2025 update:
- Review Your Deck: Re-evaluate your deck’s power level based on the updated definitions. Consider your deck’s win speed, interaction level, and synergy rather than focusing only on card cost or rarity.
- Talk to Your Group: Commander remains a social format. Discuss with your group which brackets you’ll use for casual nights or local tournaments.
- Reassess Removed Cards: If your deck includes cards removed from the Game Changers list, see whether your group still views them as too strong for casual play.
- Stay Informed: The bracket system remains in beta, meaning more changes are expected as feedback rolls in from the community.
Summary: October 2025 Commander Brackets Update
| Change Area | What’s New | Impact on Players |
|---|---|---|
| Bracket Definitions | Added average turn estimates; Bracket 2 no longer tied to precons; tutor limits lifted. | Easier deck categorization and planning. |
| Game Changers List | Ten cards removed; several commanders delisted. | More freedom to use powerful cards responsibly. |
| Ban List | No new bans announced. | Stability in deck legality. |
| Community Application | Encouraged for local store events and casual play. | Stronger consistency across playgroups. |
Future Outlook: More Refinements Ahead
Wizards of the Coast has stated that the bracket system remains in beta. That means player feedback will directly shape future updates. One potential development is the addition of a sixth bracket, which could bridge the current gap between casual and competitive play.
The Commander community continues to grow, with millions of players in the U.S. alone. These updates are part of a larger movement toward standardizing Commander experiences without sacrificing its creative freedom.
As Commander evolves, expect periodic adjustments — new definitions, possible card reevaluations, and perhaps new digital tools to help players assess their decks. The October 2025 update is just the next step in making Commander more enjoyable, balanced, and transparent for everyone.
Conclusion
The 2025 update to MTG Commander Brackets signals a major step toward a more balanced and player-friendly Commander experience. With revised definitions, clearer expectations, and more deck-building freedom, these changes empower players to enjoy Magic the way it’s meant to be played — on even footing, with clear communication and shared understanding.
What do you think of the latest MTG Commander Brackets update? Share your thoughts or tell us which bracket your favorite deck fits into!