If you’re new to Magic: The Gathering, the word draft might sound intimidating—but it’s actually one of the most fun, social, and beginner-friendly ways to play the game.
This post will walk you through what a draft is, how it works, what it costs, and why so many players love it.
The Big Idea (High Level)
A draft is a format where players build their decks on the spot by choosing cards from booster packs instead of bringing a pre-built deck from home.
Everyone starts on equal footing:
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No one has a stronger collection advantage
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No expensive decks required
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Just skill, creativity, and a little luck
How a Typical Draft Works
Most drafts follow the same basic structure:
1. Each Player Gets 3 Booster Packs
At the start of the draft, every player receives three sealed booster packs (this is standard across most Magic drafts).
2. Open, Pick, Pass
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Everyone opens one pack
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You choose one card from it
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You pass the remaining cards to the player next to you
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Repeat until all cards in the pack are gone
Then you:
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Open pack #2 and pass the other direction
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Open pack #3 and pass the original direction again
By the end, you’ll have a pile of cards you personally drafted.
3. Build a Deck
Using the cards you picked:
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You build a 40-card deck
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Basic lands are usually provided by the store
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Most decks end up being 2 colors (sometimes with a splash)
4. Play Matches
Once decks are built, players are paired up for matches—usually best-of-three games.
What Does a Draft Cost?
Drafts do have a cost, but it’s important to know what you’re paying for.
Typically, the entry fee covers:
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3 booster packs
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Event organization and prizing (if offered)
Key thing to know:
You keep all the cards you draft.
Unlike some other events, you don’t return the cards at the end—you take everything home with you.
So even if you don’t win any matches, you still leave with:
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3 packs worth of cards
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A deck you built yourself
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Experience playing Magic in a low-pressure setting
Why Draft Is Great for Beginners
Draft is one of the best ways to learn Magic because:
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It teaches card evaluation – You learn what cards are strong in context
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It encourages creativity – Every draft deck is unique
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It’s fair – Everyone starts with the same number of packs
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It’s social – Drafts are usually relaxed and friendly
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It’s affordable – No need to buy a full constructed deck
Many longtime players still consider draft their favorite way to play.
Do I Need to Be Good at Magic?
Not at all.
Drafts are:
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Beginner-friendly
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Casual by default
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Full of players happy to help
We will be around to answer questions and explain the process!
Final Thoughts
A Magic draft is:
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3 packs
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Pick cards, build a deck, play games
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You keep everything you draft
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A small cost for a full evening of fun
If you’ve ever wanted to try Magic in a way that’s approachable, social, and rewarding—draft is an excellent place to start.