Magic MTG Proxies: The Gathering is more than just a game—it’s a community. Whether you’re playing at your kitchen table or jamming Commander with friends at your local game store, how you play matters just as much as what you play.
So if you’re thinking about using MTG proxy cards in your decks, you’re not alone. Proxies are becoming increasingly common in casual formats like Commander (EDH), and they’re a great way to enjoy Magic without going broke. But one question remains:
How do you bring up using proxies with your playgroup—without making it weird?
Let’s break it down.
1. Know Your Audience
Before you bust out your full-proxy deck featuring a $3,000 mana base, take a second to think about who you’re playing with:
- New players? They’re probably open to it.
- Spikes with all-foil decks? Maybe not so much.
- Casual Commander group? Perfect place to start.
The key is to respect the culture of the group you’re playing with. Most casual groups don’t mind proxies—especially if they understand your reasons.
2. Be Honest and Transparent
Start the conversation before the match begins. Try something like:
“Hey, just a heads-up—I use a few proxy cards in this deck. I’m not trying to break the format, just testing stuff before I buy.”
This kind of honesty builds trust and shows you’re not trying to gain an unfair advantage.
3. Explain Your Reasons
People are usually more open-minded when they understand why you’re using proxies. Here are some great, honest reasons:
- You’re building on a budget
- You’re testing cards before buying the real thing
- You’re recreating a lost/stolen deck
- You’re just trying to enjoy Magic without going broke
At Abyss Proxy Shop, we believe that fun and affordability can go hand in hand.
4. Offer Compromises
If someone in your group isn’t on board right away, offer a compromise:
- “I’ll only use proxies in casual pods.”
- “How about a house rule—max 10 proxies per deck?”
- “Let’s have a proxy night once a week.”
Most of the time, people just want to make sure everyone is playing fairly. Showing that you’re willing to meet them halfway can go a long way.
5. Show Off the Quality
When people see your proxies, they’ll probably say:
“Wait, these are proxies? They look amazing!”
That’s because Abyss Proxy Shop uses professional printing standards to create cards that look and feel like the real thing—so your deck still feels premium without the premium price.
6. Lead By Example
Once you’ve had a few successful games with proxies, other players might follow your lead. You could even:
- Help your friends build their own proxy decks
- Host a proxy-friendly Commander night
- Share a blog post (like this one!) with your playgroup
You’re not just making a case for proxies—you’re building a better Magic community.
Final Thoughts: Proxies Are About Access and Fun
Using proxies in Magic isn’t cheating. It’s about enjoying the game to its fullest—on your terms. If you approach the conversation with honesty and respect, most playgroups will welcome it.
Need help building a proxy deck or want to upgrade your playgroup’s experience? Check out our custom proxy options at Abyss Proxy Shop—where budget and beauty go hand in hand.