The Hidden Gem of Strixhaven: Building Aziza, Mage Tower Captain

Secrets of Strixhaven is positively brimming with fantastic new commanders and thrilling new cards to put in the ninety-nine. From the upcoming cycle of elder dragons to the five Strixhaven commander precons there are so many great legendaries to build entire decks around. Amidst this plethora of flashy and explosive cards, I want to highlight a commander that has potentially flown under the radar.

So What's the Game-plan?

After play-testing Aziza, it became somewhat apparent that a two cmc commander can actually seem like a removal magnet. If it's the first spell you cast, that can sometimes draw the ire or fear of the table. I personally would prefer to first get some tokens or ramp on the board before Aziza, if possible. Once you have some ramp and/or creatures on board, then cast Aziza. Optimally, by turn 4 you should be able to copy your first spell. After that, I would try to protect from board wipes all while building up tokens and accruing value. Sometimes that value is expressed through treasures to setup some of the many pay X token spells and sometimes that value is simply an overwhelming board state.

What About Removal?

Full Deck List

If you are curious on my take on a full Aziza deck check it out below

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, Aziza can function as a token doubler as well as a powerful spell-slinger commander. So many instant and sorcery spells go from being good to being outstanding if you're able to copy them. Because of this, there are so many different options for spells to put in this deck. I tried to build an all around solid build with this commander but one could focus on the spell-slinger side a bit more than the token side. If there are any cards you think I should have considered, please keep the conversation going in the comments below.