Magic: The Gathering® Magic Academy

You know how to take a turn. Now learn how to put a deck together.

At Magic Academy: Deck Building, you’ll open six Play Boosters, learn how to choose cards that work together, and build a 40-card deck to try against other players.

No collection needed. No deck-building experience required.

Turn a Pile of Cards Into a Plan.

Which colors should you play? How many lands do you need? What makes two cards work well together?

We’ll help you work through those decisions as you build. You’ll practice skills you can use again at a prerelease or the next time you open packs with friends.

Learn It. Build It. Play It.

Open your possibilities.

Start with six Play Boosters and sort your cards to see what you have to work with.

Find your deck’s direction.

Learn to evaluate cards, choose colors, and spot combinations that support a game plan.

Get the balance right.

Explore how lands, creatures, and other spells fit together—and why having plays at different stages of the game matters.

Give your deck a test run.

Play friendly games, see how your choices work, and discover what you might change.

Ready for Your Next Step?

This event is a good fit if you understand Magic’s basic rules but haven’t built a deck before—or have tried and want more guidance.

You don’t need an existing collection or a perfectly planned strategy. You’ll build from the cards you open at the event, with help along the way.

Before You Shuffle Up

What do I need to bring?

Sleeves are useful for protecting your cards, but if you don't have any we have them at the store.. No premade deck needed.

Do I need to attend Learn to Play first?

You should be comfortable with basic turns, casting spells, and combat. If you already know those basics, you’re ready to join.

What kind of deck will I build?

You’ll build a 40-card deck using your opened cards and basic lands. This is called Sealed Deck.

What if I’m not sure which cards to choose?

That’s what you’re here to learn. We’ll help you compare your options and understand your choices.

Your Next Deck Starts With Six Packs—and You.

Discover the fun of making your own choices, finding unexpected combinations, and playing a deck you built yourself.

Brand new to Magic?

Keep an eye out for our Magic Academy-Learn to Play events.