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MTG CUBE

MTG Cube at Taplands & Taverns

Curious about MTG Cube? Cube is one of the easiest ways to jump into Draft-style Magic without needing to own a deck. This page explains what Cube is, what happens when you show up, and how to feel prepared for your first night.

If you’re brand new, you’re in the right place. We’ll walk through what Cube is, what happens when you show up, and how to feel prepared for your first night.

MTG Cube at Taplands & Taverns

What is MTG Cube?

Cube is a custom Draft format. Instead of opening brand-new booster packs, you draft from a curated pool of cards that can be used again and again.

Think of it like this: you draft a card pool, build a small deck from what you drafted, then play a few rounds.

Every Cube is a little different, and that’s normal. There aren’t hard universal rules for how every Cube is built, so we keep things simple and beginner-friendly.

How does Cube work? (What happens when you show up)

Step 1: Draft a card pool

You’ll sit with a group, look at a small “pack” of cards, pick one, and pass the rest to the next person. You’ll do that a few times until everyone has a pool of drafted cards.

Never drafted before? Totally fine. Just tell the table you’re new. Most Cube nights are very welcoming, and people are happy to help.

Step 2: Build a 40-card deck

Next, you’ll build a deck from the cards you drafted. A helpful rule of thumb: Draft decks are typically 40 cards, and you can add basic lands as needed.

Step 3: Play a few rounds

Then you’ll play a few rounds of games. It’s a fun mix of discovery, learning, and community.

Cube at Taplands & Taverns

Cube Wednesdays

We host Cube on Wednesdays. If you’ve been curious about Draft but didn’t know where to start, this is a great low-pressure place to learn.

Want to play another night?

Depending on the night and who’s in, Cube may also be possible outside of Wednesday. The easiest move is: ask staff when you arriveand we’ll help you figure out what’s firing.

What to bring (and what you really don't need)

You do not need to bring a deck, sleeves, or special gear. You draft cards first, then build your deck on the spot with what we provide.

If you’re unsure what to bring, just show up and play. We’ll handle the Cube, basic supplies, and getting you into a draft.

Beginner tips (so your first draft feels smooth)

  • Start simple. Two colors is a great first draft plan.
  • Ask questions out loud. “Is this card good?” is a normal Cube conversation.
  • Don’t stress about perfection. Draft is a learning format. Everyone misreads a card sometimes.
  • Focus on fun. Cube is meant to be replayable, social, and surprising.

FAQ

Do I keep the cards I draft?

Usually, no. Cube is typically drafted from a reusable pool, and the cards go back to the Cube afterward. If anything is different for a specific night, staff will tell you up front.

Is Cube the same as Booster Draft?

It’s very similar in how it plays. The main difference is where the cards come from: Booster Draft uses new booster packs, and Cube uses a curated, reusable card pool.

How many players do you need?

Cube can work with different group sizes and draft styles. If you’re not sure what’s firing tonight, ask staff and we’ll help you find a seat or figure out the next best option.

Do I need to bring sleeves or any special setup?

No. The Cube and basic supplies are covered. If you like using your own playmat or dice you can bring them, but nothing is required.

Is there a cost to play? Are there prizes?

That can vary by event/night. The quickest way to get the right answer is to ask staff when you arrive.

Ready to try it?

If Cube sounds fun, the best next step is simple: show up, say hi, and tell us it’s your first time.