Hardened Academic

Description

The Hardened Academic is a Rare creature card from the 2026 Magic: The Gathering expansion, Secrets of Strixhaven. Identified by card number 351 in the SOS set code, this Bird Cleric offers a compelling blend of speed and strategic utility for players and collectors alike. Designed by Vincent Christiaens, the card brings a distinct visual identity to the collection while providing robust gameplay options. As a two-mana creature with the Bird and Cleric subtypes, the Hardened Academic provides immediate board presence. Its Flying and Haste abilities allow it to attack or block the turn it is played, making it an aggressive tool for red and white decks. The card’s activated ability enables players to discard a card to grant Lifelink until end of turn, adding a layer of defensive resilience and life gain to aggressive strategies. Collectors and players value this card for its graveyard synergy. Whenever cards leave your graveyard, you can place a +1/+1 counter on a target creature you control. This mechanic encourages deck building that focuses on card advantage and resource management, rewarding players who can manipulate the graveyard space effectively. The interplay between its offensive haste and its supportive graveyard triggers makes it a versatile addition to various formats. For Magic: The Gathering enthusiasts, this card represents the intricate design philosophy of Secrets of Strixhaven. It appeals to those who appreciate creatures that contribute to both combat and resource accumulation. Whether you are building a competitive deck or expanding your library of rare creatures, the Hardened Academic offers significant strategic depth.