Scale Up

Scale Up was introduced in the 2019 set Modern Horizons, a groundbreaking expansion designed specifically for the Modern format of Magic: The Gathering. Unlike standard sets, Modern Horizons bypassed the traditional Standard rotation, allowing Wizards of the Coast to print cards intended for high-power, non-rotating environments. The card was designed to provide a versatile, mana-efficient boost to creatures, drawing inspiration from older, powerful combat spells while refining them for a contemporary competitive landscape.

The card features artwork by Suzanne Helmigh, who sought to capture the visceral, transformative nature of the sorcery. Her illustration emphasizes the sudden physical shift of the subject, utilizing dynamic lighting and motion to represent the dramatic increase in power. Upon its release, Scale Up was widely noted by players for its synergy with infect-based decks, quickly becoming a staple in strategies that rely on explosive, sudden damage output to close out games.