Question 1

What is MTG Live?

Accepted Answer

MTG Live is a free, browser-based tool that lets you play Magic: The Gathering with friends online using your real physical cards. Each player streams their webcam or phone camera so everyone can see the battlefield, hands, and plays in real time — no download or account required.

Question 2

Do I need to create an account?

Accepted Answer

No account, no sign-up, no password. Just enter your name, hit "Create Game", and share the link. Your friends click the link and join instantly.

Question 3

What equipment do I need to play?

Accepted Answer

A laptop or desktop with a webcam is enough to start. For the best experience, mount a webcam or phone above your play area so others can see your board clearly. A ring light or good desk lamp helps a lot for card readability.

Question 4

Can I use my phone as a camera?

Accepted Answer

Yes — and it works great. Inside the game room, open the settings menu and tap "Use Phone Camera". You'll get a QR code to scan on your phone. Open the link, grant camera access, and your phone's camera streams live into the game. Perfect for overhead board shots.

Question 5

How many players can join?

Accepted Answer

MTG Live supports 1v1 matches (2 players, 20 life) and Commander / EDH games with 2 to 6 players (40 life with commander damage tracking).

Question 6

What MTG formats are supported?

Accepted Answer

Currently 1v1 and Commander / EDH. Life totals default to 20 for 1v1 and 40 for Commander. Commander damage per opponent and poison counters are tracked for every player.

Question 7

How does life tracking work?

Accepted Answer

Each player controls their own life total using the + / − buttons or the ↑ / ↓ arrow keys. Changes sync instantly to everyone else. Commander damage is tracked per opponent and can be adjusted on each player card.

Question 8

Is MTG Live free?

Accepted Answer

Completely free — no subscriptions, no premium tiers, no ads. Create as many games as you want.

Question 9

Does it work on mobile or tablet?

Accepted Answer

You can join a game and track life totals on any mobile browser. For streaming your board we recommend using a laptop or desktop as your main seat, and connecting your phone via the "Use Phone Camera" feature for the overhead camera view.

Question 10

Do I need to install anything?

Accepted Answer

Nothing to install. MTG Live runs entirely in your web browser using WebRTC for live video. Just open the link and play.

MTGLIVE

Create Your Battle

Built for the Battlefield

Live Board Streaming

Full Combat Tracking

Zero Friction

How It Works

Create a Game

Share the Link

Play Your Cards

Recommended Gear

FAQ