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Not sure what a Prerelease is? Confused about the difference between FNM and a tournament? This guide breaks down every common MTG event type.
March 16, 2026
FNM is the most common weekly event at game stores. Hosted every Friday, it features rotating formats — Standard, Draft, Modern, or Pioneer depending on the store. Entry is typically $5–15, and prizes go to top finishers. FNM is sanctioned by Wizards of the Coast and designed to be welcoming to all skill levels. It's the bread and butter of in-store Magic.
Commander night is a casual weekly event focused on the Commander (EDH) format. Players bring their 100-card singleton decks and play multiplayer games in pods of 3–4. Entry is usually free or $5. Commander nights are the most social MTG events — politics, alliances, and table talk are part of the game. Most stores host these on weekday evenings.
Prereleases happen four times a year, the weekend before a new Magic set officially releases. You get a Prerelease kit with 6 boosters and a promo card, then build a 40-card Sealed deck on the spot. It's one of the most beginner-friendly competitive events because everyone is working with unfamiliar cards. Entry is usually $25–35. The atmosphere is festive — stores often do midnight launches and themed events.
In a Booster Draft, 6–8 players each open 3 booster packs, pick one card at a time, and pass the rest around the table. You build a 40-card deck from what you drafted plus basic lands. Drafting rewards card evaluation skill and adaptability. Entry is $12–18 (covers the packs). You keep everything you draft.
Some stores host larger tournaments with higher entry fees ($15–30+) and bigger prize pools. These might be Store Championships, Regional Championship Qualifiers (RCQs), or independent tournaments. They tend to attract more experienced players and use stricter rules enforcement. Formats vary — Standard, Modern, Pioneer, and Legacy are common for competitive play.
Many stores set aside table space for casual play during business hours or on specific nights. There's no entry fee, no prizes, and no structure — just show up with a deck and find someone to play with. This is ideal for testing new decks, teaching friends, or just getting some games in outside of organized events.
Scrypoint lists all these event types at game stores near you. Filter by format, date, or location to find exactly what you're looking for. Whether it's your first FNM or your hundredth Commander night, Scrypoint helps you stay connected to your local Magic community.