In Magic: The Gathering (MTG), sideboarding is a crucial strategy that allows players to adapt to different matchups, and one of the most important card inclusions in any sideboard is artifact and enchantment removal.

Many decks rely on powerful non creature permanents to execute their game plan, from oppressive lock pieces like Ensnaring Bridge to game-winning enchantments like Battle of Wits. Without the right answers, these cards can completely shut down your strategy.

Do note that by including targeted removal, players ensure they have the tools to deal with problematic permanents, disrupt combo decks, and prevent opponents from gaining an overwhelming advantage.

Here’s why including artifact and enchantment removal in your sideboard is crucial:

1. Answers to Problematic Permanents

Many artifacts and enchantments can be difficult to deal with if you don’t have direct removal. Cards like Ensnaring Bridge, Leyline of Sanctity, or Blood Moon can completely shut down your game plan. Having removal ensures you’re not locked out of the game.

2. Flexibility Against Different Decks

Artifacts and enchantments appear across various archetypes, from combo decks using Paradox Engine to control decks using Rest in Peace. Sideboarding in targeted removal allows you to adapt to different opponents without weakening your main deck.

3. Hate Cards Exist in These Types

Many of the most powerful “hate” cards in the game are enchantments or artifacts. Cards like Blood Moon, Stony Silence, and Damping Sphere can single-handedly disrupt your strategy. If you don’t have a way to remove them, your deck might struggle significantly.

4. Shuts Down Combo Strategies

Some decks rely heavily on artifacts or enchantments for their combo engine. Examples include Krark-Clan Ironworks decks, Heliod, Sun-Crowned combo, or Underworld Breach strategies. Removing key pieces can dismantle their win conditions.

5. Prevents Value Engines

Many enchantments provide incremental advantages over time, such as Phyrexian Arena, Sylvan Library, or The One Ring. Removing them prevents your opponent from running away with the game.

Best Sideboard Options for Removal

• Versatile Removal: Wear // Tear, Abrupt Decay, Prismatic Ending
• Mass Removal: Farewell, Serenity, Fracturing Gust
• Efficient One-for-One Removal: Nature’s Claim, Disenchant, Krosan Grip

Conclusion

Having artifact and enchantment removal in your sideboard ensures that you’re prepared for a variety of powerful strategies. Even if your main deck doesn’t struggle against these permanent types, certain matchups can hinge on whether you have the right answers post-board. A well-prepared sideboard makes your deck significantly stronger against a broader range of opponents.

Thanks for reading and until the next blog post.