The Competitive Elder Dragon Highlander (CEDH) community thrives on innovation, theorycrafting, and shared knowledge. As the format evolves, so too does the need for centralized and accessible resources. The CEDH Decklist Database (often referred to simply as the “CEDH database”) is one such resource—a curated collection of optimized decks representing the top of strategic play. For aspiring brewers and competitive players alike, understanding how to effectively submit a decklist to this database is essential. This guide breaks down the process and offers insights to help creators contribute high-quality lists recognized by the community.
What Is the CEDH Decklist Database?
Before diving into submissions, it’s important to understand the purpose of the database. The CEDH database is not a catchall for every deck ever brewed—it is a curated selection of viable archetypes that demonstrate clear competitive intent and have gone through reasonable testing and development phases. It serves two main goals:
- To help new and experienced players explore proven deck archetypes.
- To maintain a historical record of how CEDH strategies evolve over time.
Deck submissions must be more than functional—they need to embody refined strategy, consistent game plans, and a demonstrated ability to compete in high-level pods.
Step-by-Step: Submitting a Deck to the CEDH Database
Submitting your list requires more than just dropping a link. The review process for the database includes careful community examination and feedback. Here’s how to navigate each step.
1. Refine and Test Your List
Before considering submission, your deck should be the culmination of rigorous playtesting. Here are things to consider:
- Is your list consistent in executing its win condition across multiple game scenarios?
- Does your deck include appropriate interaction and meta-relevant answers?
- Have you tuned your mana base to avoid unnecessary variance?
- Have you tested against top archetypes in live pods or online events?
It’s also a good cue to take notes during playtesting and solicit feedback from other brewers or local metas. A deck that performs well in a vacuum may not hold up under real tournament pressure.
2. Prepare a Detailed Primer
A strong submission includes a comprehensive deck primer. This document performs several critical roles:
- Explains how your deck wins (primary and backup lines).
- Describes your interaction suite and how you handle threats.
- Outlines mulligan strategy and game phases.
- Justifies individual card choices and any unusual tech.
Primers should be honest, detailed, and well-structured. Use sections and headers. Pay particular attention to common questions such as “Why not XYZ card?” and “What makes this list viable in a competitive environment?”
Note that a lack of a primer is one of the most common reasons submissions are rejected or deferred. Treat your primer as a pitch: it’s what convinces reviewers why your list matters.
3. Select the Right Submission Category
The CEDH database categorizes decks by archetype: Turbo, Midrange, Stax, Doomsday, and more. These categories help players navigate the database by playstyle. Before submitting a deck, make sure your list truly fits the archetype you’re claiming. Misclassifications can delay acceptance.
If you’re innovating on an existing archetype—say, a more control-heavy version of RogSi—be clear about this in your submission. Pointing out mechanical divergences and why they matter is key.
4. Submit via the Database Portal or Discord
The most direct way to submit your list is through the deck submission form on the official website. Alternatively, you can connect with the community through the CEDH Discord server.
Online submissions generally require the following:
- A valid deck link (usually to Moxfield or Archidekt).
- A link to your full deck primer.
- A brief summary description of the deck and its strategy.
The moderators and reviewers might reach out for clarifications, ask follow-up questions, or suggest revisions. Be ready to iterate and engage in good faith.
5. Stay Involved and Iterative
Even if your list is not immediately accepted, the feedback it receives can be invaluable. Many brewers refine their list based on reviewer comments, submit again, and eventually make it. The review process is collaborative—not adversarial.
Once your deck is accepted, it becomes part of the living repository of CEDH knowledge. Keep your list updated, relay significant changes, and continue to collect data from gameplay. Most of all, remain active in the community by helping other brewers and reviewing fellow submissions.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Successful submissions steer away from the following traps:
- Lack of identity: A deck that’s unfocused or lacks a defined primary game plan.
- Unexplained tech: Cards that don’t clearly belong in competitive play without justification.
- Infrequent playtesting: Submitting theorycrafted lists without actual games under their belt.
- Missing primer: No document explaining the deck’s functionality or matchup knowledge.
Why CEDH Brewers Should Submit Their Lists
Contributing to the database has strategic and community benefits. For one, it places your deck in front of a large and engaged audience, helping you gather data and optimize your strategy further. It also contributes to the broader metagame by showcasing innovations and counterplays that others might adopt. Finally, seeing your deck become part of the CEDH database is itself an accomplishment—signal that your strategies stand up to scrutiny at the highest level of competitive EDH play.
FAQ: CEDH Database Submissions
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Q: How long does it take for a submission to be reviewed?
A: It depends on the current queue, but expect a few weeks on average. Complex or novel decks may take longer due to extended discussions. -
Q: Can I submit a meme or budget deck?
A: No. The database exclusively focuses on competitive-level decks with optimized lists. Memes and budgets, while fun, are better suited for other forums. -
Q: What if multiple people co-designed the deck?
A: That’s perfectly fine. Be sure to credit all contributors in the primer or list description. -
Q: Do I need to perform in a tournament to qualify for submission?
A: Not necessarily, although decks with proven results or those shaped by extensive meta play are favored. Testing data and performance analysis help demonstrate viability. -
Q: What formatting should my decklist use?
A: Highly recommended platforms include Moxfield and Archidekt. Ensure side notes are visible and the core combo lines are well-documented within the platform.
Submitting to the CEDH database is a notable milestone for any competitive brewer. It proves not only that your deck can compete at a high level but that you’ve taken the time to examine, document, and refine your ideas collaboratively. It’s not just about making a listing—it’s about joining the meta conversation. Take pride in your creations, and let your strategy speak through the cards.