Modern

Modern is where competitive paper Magic hits its stride. The format includes cards from roughly 2003 onward, giving players access to a massive card pool full of powerful strategies and iconic cards. Unlike Standard, Modern doesn't rotate — once a card is legal, it stays legal (unless it's banned). This makes it an appealing long-term investment for players who want to build a deck and evolve with it over time. Modern is the format of choice for Regional Championships and a regular fixture on the Pro Tour, and its metagame is among the most scrutinized and data-driven in all of Magic.