The Lost Caverns of Ixalan - Draft Tier List for Limited
Set code: LCI
Preparing for a The Lost Caverns of Ixalan draft? This tier list rates every card in the set from S (best) to F (worst) for Limited play. Use the color and rarity filters in the interactive tool to identify the best picks for your deck. Ratings are automatically calculated by analyzing removal, evasion, card advantage, creature efficiency, and relevant keywords.
Draft Strategy Guide
To succeed in The Lost Caverns of Ixalan draft, focus on these key principles:
- Prioritize quality removal (tier S and A) in early picks - cards that answer threats win games
- Read signals: if a color is open (strong cards at pick 3-5), move into that color
- Build a solid mana curve: aim for 6-8 creatures at 2-3 mana and 2-3 cards at 5+ mana
- Look for creatures with evasion (flying, trample, menace) to close out games
- Play 17 lands in most decks (16 if your curve is very low, 18 if you have many 5+ mana cards)
How Ratings Are Calculated
Our algorithm evaluates each card using multiple factors and assigns a score from 0 to 100 that translates to tiers:
- S (90-100): Bombs and premium removal. Always first pick.
- A (75-89): Excellent cards that define archetypes and win games.
- B (60-74): Solid. Good additions to any deck in their colors.
- C (45-59): Playable. Fill out the deck adequately.
- D (30-44): Situational. Only for sideboard or specific decks.
- F (0-29): Avoid. You normally should not play these cards.
Evaluation Criteria
The algorithm analyzes each card's text looking for patterns that indicate power in Limited:
- Removal: destroy, exile, deal damage to creatures, -X/-X
- Board sweepers: destroy/exile all creatures
- Evasion: flying, trample, menace, unblockable
- Card advantage: draw cards, create tokens, return from graveyard
- Efficiency: power+toughness vs converted mana cost ratio
- Keywords: deathtouch, lifelink, vigilance, flash, haste (+3 points each)
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best cards to draft in The Lost Caverns of Ixalan?
The best cards are those rated S and A tier. These include premium removal, mythic bombs, and creatures with evasion. Use the color filters on the interactive tier list to find them.
How do I use this tier list during a draft?
Prioritize S and A tier in early picks. From pick 3-4 onwards, focus on open colors and pick the highest-rated cards. B tier are good mid picks, C and D fill out the deck.
What do the S, A, B, C, D, and F tiers mean?
S = Bombs (always first pick). A = Excellent. B = Solid. C = Playable. D = Situational. F = Avoid in limited.