Aerial Assault

Description

Aerial Assault is the first card in the 2019 Magic: The Gathering Core Set, designated as card number 1 with the set code M20. This common sorcery card is printed with a foil finish, adding a distinctive reflective sheen to the card's surface that appeals to finish-focused collectors. The card requires three mana of white color identity to cast, positioning it as an early-game tool for decks centered on the white mana strategy. Mechanically, Aerial Assault serves as a targeted removal spell. It allows the player to destroy a target creature that is already tapped, providing a tactical advantage when the opponent has committed resources to the battlefield. Beyond the removal effect, the card generates life gain, awarding the controller one life for each creature they control that possesses the flying keyword. This dual effect makes it particularly synergistic in decks that utilize aerial units, turning defensive removal into a resource-generating play. The card features art by Dan Murayama Scott, whose illustration complements the white-aligned aesthetic of the Core Set. The flavor text, attributed to ornithologist Bunder Diedreck, adds a layer of narrative depth to the card's theme of avian combat. As a staple of the M20 set, Aerial Assault represents the fundamental design philosophy of the Core Set, focusing on accessible gameplay mechanics and clear strategic interactions. Collectors often seek the foil variant for its visual appeal and its status as the opening card of the set, making it a notable entry in any Magic: The Gathering collection. Whether you are building a competitive white deck or curating a set of foil commons, this card offers both functional utility and collectible value. Its straightforward yet effective design ensures it remains a recognizable piece of modern Magic history, bridging the gap between casual play and serious collection building.