Ascendant Packleader MTG Card


Indirect card advantage arises as opponents spend resources to tackle the growing threat of Ascendant Packleader. Early game pressure and resource acceleration are enabled by the low-cost, scalable nature of this creature. Ascendant Packleader’s presence on the board can shape gameplay, giving players a strategic edge.
Card setsReleased in 4 setsSee all
Mana cost
Converted mana cost1
RarityRare
TypeCreature — Wolf
Power 2
Toughness 1

Text of card

Ascendant Packleader enters the battlefield with a +1/+1 counter on it if you control a permanent with mana value 4 or greater. Whenever you cast a spell with mana value 4 or greater, put a +1/+1 counter on Ascendant Packleader.


Cards like Ascendant Packleader

Ascendant Packleader is a dynamic creature card that stands out in the vast menagerie of Magic: The Gathering. Resembling the steadfast Pelt Collector, this wolf benefits from creatures entering the battlefield with higher power. However, where Pelt Collector garners a +1/+1 counter each time this condition is met, Ascendant Packleader’s strength lies in its static boost whenever you cast a spell with mana value 4 or greater, regardless of the spell’s type.

Tarmogoyf is another card that players might draw parallels with, although it has a different mechanic that calculates power and toughness based on the variety of card types in all graveyards—a different angle of playability yet marking its own unique impact. Similarly, Scavenging Ooze offers a route to power itself up, albeit through its activated ability, which also conveniently disrupts opponent strategies relying on graveyard interactions.

While evaluating the potential of these cards, Ascendant Packleader stands as a strong choice for decks aiming to cast larger spells and enforces a compelling presence early in the game. Its ease of setup and potency in the right deck scheme demonstrates why it’s a consideration for players searching for impactful one-drops in Magic: The Gathering.

Pelt Collector - MTG Card versions
Tarmogoyf - MTG Card versions
Scavenging Ooze - MTG Card versions
Pelt Collector - MTG Card versions
Tarmogoyf - MTG Card versions
Scavenging Ooze - MTG Card versions

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Decks using this card

MTG decks using Ascendant Packleader. Dig deeper into the strategy of decks, sideboard cards, list ideas and export to play in ARENA or MOL.

#NameFormatArchetypeEvent
Mono-Green StompyMono-Green Stompy GladiatorGladiator Team Unified League
Gruul StompyGruul Stompy GladiatorGladiator Proving Grounds: Week 10 2024
Mono-Green AggroMono-Green Aggro StandardMono-Green AggroTraditional Standard Ranked Decklists: March 25, 2024
Gruul AggroGruul Aggro GladiatorGladiator Team Unified League
Domain ZooDomain Zoo ModernDomain ZooGrand Open Qualifier Prague 2024
WBRGWBRG StandardTraditional Standard Ranked Decklists: February 26, 2024
Selesnya AggroSelesnya Aggro StandardSelesnya AggroThe Pizza Box Open: Standard
Gruul MidrangeGruul Midrange GladiatorGladiator Team Unified League

Card Pros

Card Advantage: Ascendant Packleader may not directly allow you to draw cards, but it does pose a significant threat that requires an answer. Each time opponents deal with it, they are potentially using resources that could’ve targeted your more crucial cards—indirectly contributing to your card advantage over time.

Resource Acceleration: While Ascendant Packleader itself is not a direct source of resource acceleration, it’s a one-mana creature that can quickly become a larger threat on the board, pressuring opponents earlier in the game. This focus on the Packleader can divert attention and resources away from your capability to develop your mana base and other assets.

Instant Speed: Although Ascendant Packleader is a creature and not an instant, its mere presence can influence your gameplay similar to having an instant in hand. Its strength scaling with higher power creatures means you can efficiently manage your mana and play, aligning creature casts to bolster the Packleader, keeping opponents guessing about your next big move.


Card Cons

Discard Requirement: While not applicable for Ascendant Packleader, some cards force players to discard, which can hamper strategies, especially when resources are scarce.

Specific Mana Cost: Ascendant Packleader requires green mana, which means it can only be optimally used in decks that are heavy in green or with a reliable mana base supporting green.

Comparatively High Mana Cost: Though moderate, Ascendant Packleader’s two mana cost could be considered high when compared to one-mana creatures that start impacting the game sooner.


Reasons to Include Ascendant Packleader in Your Collection

Versatility: Ascendant Packleader offers flexibility in deck building. Its low mana cost means it can be played early, and it scales effectively as you have a higher power creature enter the battlefield, making it a solid choice for both aggressive and midrange decks.

Combo Potential: Its ability to grow based on the other creatures you summon creates synergy with decks that focus on both power boosts and those that flood the board with creatures. Additionally, it makes an excellent target for buffs or equipment, further maximizing its potential.

Meta-Relevance: Due to the ongoing popularity of creature-based strategies in various formats, Ascendant Packleader can be a pivotal card in games where establishing early board presence is crucial. It asserts pressure on opponents right from the start, setting the pace for the game in your favor.


How to beat

The Ascendant Packleader is a force to be reckoned with on the battlefield. This potent one-drop creature from Magic: The Gathering can quickly grow out of control if left unchecked. However, one effective strategy to overpower this card is through timely removal. Spells like Fatal Push and Bloodchief’s Thirst can be used to eliminate the Packleader before it becomes a larger threat.

Board wipes are another reliable method. A well-timed Wrath of God or Doomskar can reset the board, wiping out the Ascendant Packleader along with any other creatures that have bolstered its strength. Additionally, enchantment-based removal such as Pacifism can neutralize it without triggering its leave-the-battlefield abilities, providing a more subtle but effective solution.

Using these strategies, players can efficiently handle the threat posed by the Ascendant Packleader. By maintaining control over the board and managing threats as they emerge, players can keep the upper hand and prevent the Packleader from leading their opponent to victory.


BurnMana Recommendations

Exploring the strategic depths of MTG can turn a casual player into a formidable opponent. Ascendant Packleader shines as a versatile card that thrives in creature-heavy decks. Whether it’s creating early pressure or scaling as the game progresses, this card is tailor-made for players looking to assert dominance on the board. Embrace the synergy and competitive edge the Packleader offers. For those keen on mastering the intricacies of green mana strategies, this card is an indispensable ally. Enhance your deck and gameplay – join BurnMana and dive into the world of advanced MTG strategies with us.


Where to buy

If you're looking to purchase Ascendant Packleader MTG card by a specific set like Magic Online Promos and Innistrad: Crimson Vow, there are several reliable options to consider. One of the primary sources is your local game store, where you can often find booster packs, individual cards, and preconstructed decks from current and some past sets. They often offer the added benefit of a community where you can trade with other players.

For a broader inventory, particularly of older sets, online marketplaces like TCGPlayer, Card Kingdom and Card Market offer extensive selections and allow you to search for cards from specific sets. Larger e-commerce platforms like eBay and Amazon also have listings from various sellers, which can be a good place to look for sealed product and rare finds.

Additionally, Magic’s official site often has a store locator and retailer lists for finding Wizards of the Coast licensed products. Remember to check for authenticity and the condition of the cards when purchasing, especially from individual sellers on larger marketplaces.

Below is a list of some store websites where you can buy the Ascendant Packleader and other MTG cards:

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Printings

The Ascendant Packleader Magic the Gathering card was released in 3 different sets between 2021-11-19 and 2022-01-28. Illustrated by Alessandra Pisano.

#ReleasedNameCodeSymbolNumberFrameLayoutBorderArtist
12002-06-24Magic Online PromosPRM 954012015NormalBlackAlessandra Pisano
22021-11-19Innistrad: Crimson VowVOW 3832015NormalBlackAlessandra Pisano
32021-11-19Innistrad: Crimson VowVOW 1862015NormalBlackAlessandra Pisano
42022-01-28Innistrad: Double FeatureDBL 4532015NormalBlackAlessandra Pisano

Legalities

Magic the Gathering formats where Ascendant Packleader has restrictions

FormatLegality
StandardLegal
HistoricbrawlLegal
HistoricLegal
LegacyLegal
OathbreakerLegal
GladiatorLegal
PioneerLegal
CommanderLegal
ModernLegal
FutureLegal
VintageLegal
DuelLegal
ExplorerLegal
BrawlLegal
PennyLegal
TimelessLegal

Rules and information

The reference guide for Magic: The Gathering Ascendant Packleader card rulings provides official rulings, any errata issued, as well as a record of all the functional modifications that have occurred.

Date Text
2021-11-19 Ascendant Packleader's first ability considers only permanents already on the battlefield when determining if it should apply. If Ascendant Packleader is entering the battlefield at the same time as another permanent, the replacement effect won't see that permanent.