Serra Ascendant — Magic: The Gathering card

Serra Ascendant

{W}
Creature — Human Monk

Lifelink (Damage dealt by this creature also causes you to gain that much life.)

As long as you have 30 or more life, this creature gets +5/+5 and has flying.

*Faith in Serra is its own reward.*

Power/Toughness: 1/1

Set Iconic Masters
Rarity Rare
Mana Value 1
Artist Howard Lyon
Collector # 31
Scryfall

Why Play Serra Ascendant

A one-mana creature that can quickly become a 6/6 flying lifelinker represents incredible aggressive potential in the right shell. Lifegain-focused decks can consistently trigger the 30+ life threshold by turn 2-3, transforming what appears to be a modest threat into a game-ending clock. The card excels in aggressive lifegain strategies that can reliably reach 30 life early, particularly in multiplayer formats where the higher starting life total makes the transformation more achievable.

Format Notes

Commander represents the format where Serra Ascendant truly shines, as the 40 starting life makes reaching 30+ life significantly easier than in 20-life formats. Modern occasionally sees play in dedicated lifegain decks, though the requirement proves more challenging in faster competitive environments. Legacy and Vintage applications remain niche, as the card's power level doesn't quite match the format's speed and interaction density.

Combos & Synergies

Soul Warden and Soul's Attendant provide immediate life gain triggers to help reach the critical threshold while building board presence. Archangel of Thune creates a powerful synergy engine, where Serra Ascendant's lifelink triggers pump the entire team while maintaining the flying beatdown plan. Martyr of Sands offers explosive life gain potential in white-heavy decks, potentially activating the transformation immediately while providing additional synergy pieces.

Learn More

Creature Flying Lifelink Ward Modern Commander Legacy