mtg counter target spell cards Counterspell - Single Card Counter target spell. Counterspell | Mystery Booster 2

Yes, the restriction is relevant, but remember this includes equip costs, the hour counters on Midnight Clock, a second trigger with Strionic Resonator, or a copy from Isochron Scepter

On top of that, there are also a handful of creatures that have lifelink outright: If you are in need of life, Heliods Intervention is an X spell can gain you life equal to twice the amount of X

Remand is a lovely little card and is continuing to get better

Finally, any variety of green and/or white creatures can round out this deck and fill out its curve

Are there other ways we can put the Leviathan Creature type to use

Nothing to say here