How to Play Aggro?
Standard forum
Posted on June 12, 2014, 9:54 p.m. by BoromirOfGondor
I have tried a myriad of aggro decks in my time playing magic, but I always overthink attacks and other situations. Thus, I have played control (my favorite archetype) for months; but, in the interest of metagame awareness (know thy enemy), I would like to at least know how an aggro deck is correctly played, especially from a control player's perspective. Any input?
Against control???? Yeah, turn everything sideways as soon as possible.
June 12, 2014 10:09 p.m.
aeonstoremyliver says... #4
Delver, or a similar Tempo deck, is a good mix of Control and Aggro, put simply.
June 12, 2014 10:29 p.m.
InconspicuousPotato says... #5
Don't over think attack, but think about it. Don't mindlessly turn sideways, think of how over the course of the next few turns (not just that turn) how to maximize damage. If that means not attacking with something so it survives until next turn don't attack with it. Also look for the fastest win, even if it's risky. Chances are it won't matter too much if it doesn't work or you'll win. Aggro requires a lot of hidden strategy. Many pass over that but it's true. Finding when to attack is an important part of aggro, and you really just have to trust yourself on that. Other situations require just as much thinking. I often when playing aggro find myself taking long amounts of time to figure things out. Keep the biggest goal in mind: Winning, then find the fastest steps to take to get to that goal.
June 12, 2014 11:10 p.m.
corranhorn01 says... #6
Basically what Potato said. Also, don't mindlessly play threats (eg against UWx Control, post T4 unless I'm going to win that turn, I try and keep a creature or 2 in my hand or hold up the Boros Charm or equivalent. Just for fear of the Verdict play.)
Long story short:Plan your attacks for max dmg, but don't over plan or always turn sidewaysPlay accordingly vs whatever deck you're againstYou want to be winning T4 or 5 (absolute latest) as you can't compete with the typical 4+ drops.
June 13, 2014 12:05 a.m.
ChrisHansonBiomancin says... #7
Probably the most important thing to think about as a control player trying to get into the head of an aggro player is how they will try to play around Supreme Verdict . Any decent player will know to not overcommit to the board if they don't have an answer (Boros Charm , Golgari Charm , etc.), and to leave mana open if they do. It's imperative for you to know when to use a board wipe or spot removal based on how aggressively they commit.
June 13, 2014 12:39 a.m.
Hjaltrohir says... #8
Basically:
Attack for the win but carefully, don't rush into things but plan the impact of things on the next few turns and try to maximise damage
If an aggro player plays all creatures from their hand, they have protection against a wrath (or are a bit inexperienced) but if they keep some creatures in their hand, they have no protection against a wrath so want to keep some creatures back.
TehCoopeh says... #2
Throw creatures on board, turn everything sideways. Win
June 12, 2014 10:03 p.m.