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Booster Draft
Limited Format
Booster Draft is the most popular limited format. Players sit in a pod (typically 8), open a booster pack, pick one card, and pass the rest. After three packs, each player builds a 40+ card deck from their picks plus basic lands. It tests card evaluation, signaling, and adaptability.
Booster Draft was formalized in the mid-1990s and has become one of Magic's most beloved formats, testing both luck and skill.
Where to Play
TabletopMTG ArenaMagic Online
Deck Size40+ cards
Starting Life20
Players8 players (typically)
Game Duration~2-3 hours (including draft)
RotationNon-rotating
Deck Construction
- Minimum 40 cards
- Basic lands provided separately
- All drafted cards form your sideboard
- Typically 17 lands, 23 spells
Gameplay
- Open pack, pick one card, pass remaining cards
- Repeat for all cards in the pack
- Draft 3 packs total, alternating pass direction
- Build 40+ card deck from your picks
Mulligan Rule
Draw 7 cards. You may mulligan any number of times, drawing 7 each time. After keeping, put cards equal to the number of mulligans taken on the bottom of your library.
Notes
- Most popular limited format
- Tests card evaluation and reading signals
- Great way to build a collection
- Friday Night Magic staple
- Available on MTG Arena