Does a Commander going to the command zone count as dying?

Yes, commanders can trigger “dies” triggers as they head to the command zone. This new rules change was announced on June 7, 2020 and became active in the Commander rules circa the release date of Core Set 2021.

Can you use Commander abilities in the command zone?

While in the command zone, your commander’s abilities won’t affect the game unless those abilities specifically say they do. You may cast your commander from the command zone. Each time you do, it costs 2 more to cast for each time you’ve previously cast it from the command zone during the game.

When can you send your Commander to the command zone?

903.9. A commander may return to the command zone during a Commander game. 903.9a If a commander is in a graveyard or in exile and that object was put into that zone since the last time state-based actions were checked, its owner may put it into the command zone.

Can a commander be put into the command zone?

If a commander would be put into its owner’s hand or library from anywhere, its owner may put it into the command zone instead. This replacement effect may apply more than once to the same event.

Where does your commander go during the game?

Command Zone. This is where your commander resides during the game when they are not in play. At the start of the game, each player puts their commander face up into the command zone.

How many land drops do you need in commander?

Because of the slower pace of play in EDH/Commander, it isn’t as drastically important to hit 5-6 land drops in 5-6 turns. In addition, the number of “mana rocks” (mana-generating artifacts) and dual lands/mana filtering/land fetch cards are usually higher.

What are the rules for a commander deck?

A Commander deck must contain exactly 100 cards, including the commander. If you’re playing a companion, it must adhere to color identity and singleton rules. While it is not part of the deck, it is effectively a 101st card. With the exception of basic lands, no two cards in the deck may have the same English name.