Simic Ascendancy is a rare enchantment that creates an explosive win condition through growth counters. For 2 mana, it starts by putting +1/+1 counters on target creatures, allowing you to scale up with tokens like Llanowar Elves or Sylvan Caryatid. As the game progresses, the enchantment gains growth counters equal to the number of +1/+1 counters placed on your creatures. If Simic Ascendancy reaches 20+ growth counters by your upkeep, you immediately win.

This card shines in combo decks that generate a high volume of tokens and +1/+1 counters, such as Merfolk or Golgari Token aggro. Its power is also leveraged in larger format Commander games, where it can be the decisive factor in winning due to its ability to scale up quickly with creature-based strategies.

Simic Ascendancy

This enchantment is a rare card from the Lorwyn Commons set. Its primary function is to grow in power as creatures under its control gain +1/+1 counters. The card's effects trigger and resolve on the stack and battlefield.

Keyword Abilities:

• None explicitly stated, but it utilizes the +1/+1 Counter token.
• It also uses a custom token called a Growth Counter, which is only referenced in the oracle text.

Stack Interactions:

When a creature gains +1/+1 counters, the enchantment's ability will trigger. This can be caused by various cards, including Swords to Plowshares, Vines of Vastwood, or even other instances of Simic Ascendancy itself. The triggered ability puts growth counters on the enchantment equal to the number of +1/+1 counters gained.

Battlefield Functionality:

The enchantment's primary function is to grow in power as creatures under its control gain +1/+1 counters. However, its most significant impact comes from its win condition: if it has twenty or more growth counters at the beginning of your upkeep, you win the game.

Edge Cases and Unusual Interactions:

• If a creature gains +1/+1 counters due to Benediction's effect, the enchantment will trigger as intended. However, if this is done in response to another ability that would also give counters (e.g., responding to Vines of Vastwood), you may need to consider whether the triggered ability goes on the stack before or after the initial counter-gaining ability.
• If multiple creatures gain +1/+1 counters simultaneously, and they are all under the control of the same player controlling Simic Ascendancy, each creature's gain will trigger a growth counter on the enchantment. This can quickly accelerate its power growth.

Commander-Specific Quirks:

This card is particularly notable in Commander decks focusing on growing creatures and leveraging life total manipulation for advantage. When paired with cards that can manipulate +1/+1 counters, such as Protean Hydra, Simic Ascendancy can become a game-ender extremely quickly due to its growth counter accumulation mechanic.

In specific metagames or decks centered around manipulating tokens (e.g., Viv's Sensei), the ability to create and manipulate +1/+1 counters could significantly enhance this enchantment's potential.

Simic Ascendancy is a powerful enchantment that rewards players for creating large creatures with +1/+1 counters. This synergy allows it to serve as a win condition in various green-blue (Azorius) and blue-green (Simic) strategies.

In competitive Commander decks, Simic Ascendancy is often used in combination with cards like Evolving Wilds, Llanowar Elves, and Fading Thought-Revenant to create an overwhelming board presence. When paired with a creature that generates +1/+1 counters quickly, such as Dauth-Issu, Simic Ascendancy can accelerate towards the 20-growth counter threshold.

A popular build featuring this card is the "Infect" archetype, which leverages creatures like Evolving Wilds and Simian Spirit Guide to generate +1/+1 counters. This synergy allows players to win with Simic Ascendancy in a relatively short amount of time.

Casual players also benefit from using Simic Ascendancy in combo decks that focus on card advantage, such as the "Token Generation" archetype. By combining this enchantment with cards like Gleeful Slaps and Mox Opal, players can create an exponential growth rate, leading to quick wins.

In niche builds, Simic Ascendancy is occasionally used in more aggressive decks that rely on creatures like Grapple with the Past and Fathom Mage. This combination allows players to rapidly generate +1/+1 counters and reach the win condition before their opponents can respond effectively.

Simic Ascendancy is a potent enabler of +1/+1 counter synergies. Its ability to put a +1/+1 counter on target creature for a mere {G}{U} makes it an attractive choice for combos that rely on this mechanic.

• When paired with cards like Eldrid Lure or Nylea's Presence, which create +1/+1 counters, Simic Ascendancy accelerates the process of applying those counters to creatures.
• In combo decks featuring Kemba, Kha Regent, which allows you to pay a life total in addition to mana costs, Simic Ascendancy can be used to supplement life gain with its +1/+1 counter application.

Simic Ascendancy's growth counter trigger provides additional value. When combined with cards like Ajani's Pridemate or Golgari Findbroker, which benefit from a high number of +1/+1 counters, Simic Ascendancy can rapidly grow in power.

• On the other hand, when paired with cards that have drawbacks associated with growth counters, such as Necrotic Ooze, Simic Ascendancy's ability to apply these counters can exacerbate the issue.
• However, if your deck features cards like Estrid, the Masked or [Baleful Ephro, which have high power ceilings that require a significant number of growth counters to reach maximum potential, Simic Ascendancy can rapidly accelerate their development.

Ultimately, Simic Ascendancy is most valuable in decks where its trigger and +1/+1 counter application are closely intertwined with the rest of the strategy.

Timing Issues: Failure to Activate Ascendancy's Abilities

Players often overlook that Simic Ascendancy has two abilities triggered by different events. The first ability is activated at any time during the turn when {G}{U} is paid, and it puts a +1/+1 counter on a target creature. In Commander, this can be used to accelerate growth counters or trigger other abilities.

However, the second ability triggers only at the beginning of upkeep, not the end phase as some players may think. This means that even if you put multiple counters on your creatures during the turn, you won't win the game until the next upkeep step. A common mistake is playing Ascendancy and expecting to win immediately after putting a few counters on a creature.

Misunderstood Rules: Growth Counters

Some players incorrectly assume growth counters can be removed or destroyed like any other counter. However, as per Magic's official rules, growth counters cannot be targeted by removal spells or abilities. This makes Ascendancy nearly impossible to interact with through traditional means, and attempting to remove its growth counters can result in card advantage for the player.

Poor Synergies: Relying on a Single Creature

Simic Ascendancy is often used as a singleton in Commander decks. While it provides an attractive win condition, relying solely on this enchantment can lead to inconsistent gameplay. Players frequently overlook the importance of developing a robust plan B, such as using other creatures that can generate counters and complement Ascendancy's ability.

A better approach is to pair Ascendancy with cards like Evolving Wilds, which provide additional mana sources for its activation cost or create opportunities to manipulate growth counters. By integrating multiple strategies, players can mitigate the risks associated with relying on a single win condition.

Additional Considerations

In Commander, it's not uncommon to see decks focused on creating an advantage through Ascendancy's abilities while ignoring other aspects of gameplay. This can lead to problems like:

• Inadequate creature removal: Failing to address threats targeting creatures with growth counters can result in a premature loss.
• Insufficient card draw: Neglecting to develop a plan for generating more cards can leave players vulnerable to opponents' interactions or unexpected developments.

By understanding the intricacies of Simic Ascendancy and avoiding common mistakes, players can improve their chances of success in Commander games.

Simic Ascendancy is a game-winning engine that rewards players for accumulating +1/+1 counters on their creatures. In Commander, it's best used in green-blue devotion decks that can efficiently generate counters.

The enchantment's primary benefit is its ability to put +1/+1 counters on creatures, which synergizes well with cards like Fertilid and Vines of Vastwood. When combined with a creature that can gain multiple counters at once, such as Ezuri, Renowned Leader, Simic Ascendancy becomes a formidable force.

However, the enchantment's reliance on growth counters makes it vulnerable to removal. Cards like Abrupt Decay or Doom Blade can quickly take out the enchantment, so players should exercise caution when using it in combination with creatures that are easily removable.

In terms of its versatility, Simic Ascendancy is most effective when paired with a consistent creature-generating engine. Decks that can reliably produce 20+ counters will be able to win the game quickly using this enchantment. Otherwise, players should consider alternative game-winning engines or strategies.

The rarity and price of Simic Ascendancy make it an attractive inclusion for green-blue devotion decks seeking a powerful game-winner. However, its vulnerability to removal and reliance on specific creatures limit its overall versatility.

Simic Ascendancy: A Counter-Fueled Win Condition

This enchantment excels in creature-heavy decks that can generate a high number of +1/+1 counters. It's particularly well-suited for Simic and Azorius colors, which already have access to efficient creatures and counter-generating cards.

Commanders and Color Identities

Simic Ascendancy is an excellent fit for:

• Atraxa, Praetors' Voice: Atraxa's ability to generate +1/+1 counters on herself can trigger the growth counters on Simic Ascendancy, creating a potential win condition.
• Omniscience, and other commanders that benefit from card advantage and counter generation.
• Kiora, Master of the Depths: Kiora's ability to create 2/2 creature tokens can help generate +1/+1 counters on Simic Ascendancy.

Theme Engines

This enchantment leverages the following theme engines:

• Counter Generation: Cards like Ethersworn Uris, Purify the Sanctuary, and Frostburn can contribute to the growth counters on Simic Ascendancy.
• Creature Tokens: Creatures that generate tokens, such as Bloom Titan, can help increase the +1/+1 counter count.

Synergy Cards

The following cards create a powerful synergy with Simic Ascendancy:

Combo Notes

• Simic Ascendancy and Atraxa, Praetors' Voice: Atraxa's ability to generate +1/+1 counters on herself can trigger the growth counters on Simic Ascendancy, creating a potential win condition.
• Simic Ascendancy and Kiora, Master of the Depths: Kiora's ability to create 2/2 creature tokens can help generate +1/+1 counters on Simic Ascendancy.

Simic Ascendancy in Commander

In Commander, Simic Ascendancy is a game-winning card that can single-handedly turn the tide of a match. With its ability to put +1/+1 counters on creatures and growth counters on itself, it creates an exponential growth rate. For example, if you have a 2/2 creature with one +1/+1 counter, Simic Ascendancy will add another +1/+1 counter at the cost of {G}{U}, making that creature a 3/4. If you then put two more counters on it, Simic Ascendancy gains four growth counters.

This process can continue indefinitely as long as you keep putting +1/+1 counters on your creatures and growth counters on Simic Ascendancy. However, the game ends when the enchantment reaches twenty or more growth counters. This makes it a high-impact card that rewards players who can consistently apply pressure to their opponents.

Casual and Competitive Play

In casual games, Simic Ascendancy is often overlooked in favor of more immediately impactful cards. However, experienced players know its potential for explosive growth and use it as a key component in combo decks. In competitive play, Simic Ascendancy is a staple in many formats, including Commander.

Interaction with Other Cards

Simic Ascendancy's synergy with other cards like Gruul Raze the Nowhere (which can add counters to multiple creatures at once) and Mnemosphere (which allows you to put counters on yourself or a creature without using mana) makes it even more formidable. Additionally, cards like Vedalken Disciple (which gives a creature a +1/+1 counter for each enchantment on the battlefield) further accelerate Simic Ascendancy's growth rate.

Banned in Modern and Other Formats

While not banned in Commander, Simic Ascendancy is restricted in formats like Modern due to its potential to create an unfair advantage. In these formats, players often choose more balanced cards that don't offer such a high reward for a single ability.

Price and Availability

Currently, the price of a Simic Ascendancy card is around $0.34 USD, making it relatively affordable compared to other game-winning effects. Its availability in booster packs from the Lorwyn/Shadowmoor block also makes it accessible to players who don't have to rely on expensive reprints.

In summary, Simic Ascendancy remains a powerful and competitive card that rewards players for their ability to create an exponential growth rate through +1/+1 counters.

Simic Ascendancy shines in scenarios where a single player can amass an overwhelming board presence. In a 1v1 or small multiplayer setting, this enchantment's potential for exponential growth is unmatched.

• High-Curve Creatures: When paired with high-power creatures like Luminarch Ascension or Kraul Prince of the Mire, Simic Ascendancy can quickly accumulate counters, making it difficult for opponents to keep up.
• Synergy with +1/+1 Counter Generation: Cards that produce +1/+1 counters, such as Primal Bellow or Growth Spiral, accelerate the enchantment's growth, ensuring a swift victory.

In larger multiplayer games, however, Simic Ascendancy may falter due to its vulnerability to counterplay and removal effects:

• Removal Spells: Opponents can target this enchantment with cards like Dissatisfy or Anguished Unmaking, disrupting the player's plans.
• Counter Measures: Cards that prevent or destroy +1/+1 counters, such as Kumena, Tyrant of Orazca or Vandalblast, can neuter Simic Ascendancy's advantage.

In a multiplayer setting with multiple players and a focus on combo-based gameplay, the enchantment's potential for exponential growth is reduced:

• Combo Disruption: When opponents are focused on disrupting each other's combos, Simic Ascendancy's effect may be insufficient to win the game.
• Shared Resources: In games where resources are shared or contested, the player with Simic Ascendancy may struggle to accumulate enough counters for a decisive victory.

Simic Ascendancy has a history dating back to the Lorwyn/Shadowmoor sets ( lcc ) released in 2007. This enchantment is a staple in many Simic and tribal decks due to its ability to create a win condition through a simple +1/+1 counter mechanism.

Key printings:

• Lorwyn ( lcc ): The original printing of this card.
• Shadowmoor ( lcc ): A reprint of the same design from the Lorwyn set.

Reprints:

• Simic Ascendancy was reprinted in various sets, including:
  • Modern Masters 2017
  • Lorwyn-Shadowmoor Reprint Collection

Tournament Presence:

• This enchantment has seen play in various formats, including Modern and Commander.
• Its ability to generate +1/+1 counters and provide a win condition makes it an attractive inclusion in Simic tribal decks.
• In the format of Commander (EDH), Simic Ascendancy is often used as part of larger combo or ramp strategies.

EDHREC Stats:

• As of this summary, EDHREC lists 4.7% of Simic Ascendancy's total occurrences on their site in Commander decklists.
• Its average price is around $0.34 USD, making it an accessible and affordable choice for many players.

Iconic Decks:

• Simic Ascendancy is a key component in several iconic decks, including:
  • Luminous Bonds (a popular Modern deck archetype)
  • Simic Midrange (an EDH decklist on EDHREC's website)

Its ability to provide an easy win condition and support tribal strategies has cemented Simic Ascendancy as a staple in many Magic decks.

Simic Ascendancy is a testament to the Simic Combine's innovative approach to augmenting living organisms. This enchantment embodies their philosophy of merging organic and synthetic elements to create superior beings.

The card's ability to add +1/+1 counters to a target creature mirrors the Simic's method of grafting artificial limbs or organs onto living creatures, enhancing their physical prowess Ajani's Pridemate. The combination of Green and Blue mana costs reflects the Combine's emphasis on both growth and adaptation, as seen in cards like Evolving Wilds and Bloom Muzzle.

When a creature gains +1/+1 counters, Simic Ascendancy rewards the player with an equivalent number of growth counters. This synergy showcases the Combine's expertise in biotechnology, where they strive to understand and replicate the processes that govern life itself Vines of Vastwood. The more growth counters accumulated on Simic Ascendancy, the closer the player is to achieving a breakthrough in their research.

The win condition, triggered at twenty or more growth counters, represents a monumental achievement in the Simic's pursuit of scientific progress. It implies that the player has unlocked a fundamental secret of life, one that grants them an unparalleled advantage over their opponents Jace, the Mind Sculptor.

Simic Ascendancy is a rare card, fitting for its extraordinary abilities and the high stakes involved in its gameplay. Its inclusion in the Lorwyn/Shadowmoor block reflects the set's focus on the Simic Combine's mysterious and often sinister operations Lure of Revathy.