New player guide

Learn Magic the Gathering

A fast, table-ready introduction to core rules, turn flow, and combat. Use these sections alongside the stack visualizer and rules lookup to build confidence while you play.

Stack VisualizerCard Rulings + RulesKeyword GlossaryLife Tracker

Basics

Turn structure, card types, and zones.

Open guide →

Combat

Attacking, blocking, damage, and common keywords.

Open guide →

Stack and Priority

Responding to spells and resolving in LIFO order.

Open guide →

First Game Checklist

Start at 20 life (Commander uses 40).
Shuffle, draw 7 cards, take a free mulligan if needed.
Play one land per turn, cast spells with your mana.
Announce attacks and blocks clearly.

Learning Tips

  • Say your actions out loud to confirm timing with the table.
  • If you are unsure, pause and check the rules or glossary.
  • Use tokens or dice to track counters and temporary effects.
  • Focus on one step at a time; the stack will handle the rest.

Practice With Tools

Learn priority and LIFO resolution with the stack visualizer.Search the comprehensive rules when a timing question comes up.Look up keywords like trample, vigilance, and ward.Track life totals and counters during your first game.