Reveal: The Way Magic's Avatar Set Reintroduces Two Popular Tribe-Focused Mechanics

MTG enthusiasts frequently embrace tribe-based tactics — who has not assembled a goblin deck before? — while this forthcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender crossover release brings back 2 popular mechanics that fit seamlessly to the flavor.

Reappearing Tribal Abilities

One first mechanic, known as "Ally," was introduced with the Zendikar and gives buffs each time additional permanents with this subtype enter play.

Alternatively, "Shrines" represents an enchantment subtype which originated with Kamigawa. Although not exactly a creature tribal theme, these enchantments likewise gain strength as a player owns more of them on the battlefield.

The Comeback for Allies Ability

While Shrine cards have shown up sporadically in recent sets, the Ally subtype was seldom seen — but that ends with ATLA, in which this feature is prominently used.

Aang must recruit many companions during the quest to restore balance across the four nations, and there's no better method to reflect this in an Magic: The Gathering expansion.

Exclusive Cards Showcase

After the initial set announcement, below are previews of one Allies plus a Shrines card from the new Avatar: The Last Airbender set.

Teo, Spirited Glider: A Beloved Character

This character is a cherished supporting figure from ATLA, a young man from Earth Kingdom that lived in the Northern Air Temple after his village was destroyed by a disaster, an event that rendered him unable to walk.

Because of his dad's skill in engineering, he can soar in the air with his glider, even dares the Avatar in a flying contest.

This card Teo, Spirited Glider represents Teo's passion for flying and his tribe's reliance on flying machines through letting the player loot each time you attack with a flying unit, and additionally strengthening your team via counters at the same time.

The Temple Card: The Strong Shrine Enchantment

Speaking of his dwelling, this appears in a card named Northern Air Temple, which drains your opponent's life total when entering play, depending on the number Shrine cards you control.

It also drains an additional point anytime another Shrine comes onto the battlefield.

This appears to be a powerful addition, given the card's cheap mana cost plus valuable enter the battlefield effect.

One big weakness of Shrine strategies in formats besides EDH are the fact that these cards are always legendary permanents, but this card is great when paired alongside another Shrine, which drains every opponent at the beginning of your main phase.

A Welcome Crossover

Currently while Universes Beyond products have been garnering significant hate by the community, an iconic franchise like Avatar can be exactly what Magic: The Gathering requires.

Preview period is already here, with all cards will be released November 21st.