Reveal: How Magic's Avatar Expansion Revives Two Popular Tribe-Focused Gameplay Features

MTG fans consistently adopt tribe-based tactics — who hasn't assembled an elf deck at some point? — and the forthcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender Universes Beyond release is reintroducing 2 beloved mechanics that align seamlessly to the flavor.

Reappearing Tribal Mechanics

One initial ability, called "Allies," first introduced with a Zendikar which provides boosts whenever additional permanents bearing the Ally type come onto the battlefield.

On the other hand, "Shrine" represents another enchantment subtype which first appeared in Kamigawa. Although not exactly a creature tribal theme, Shrines likewise gain power as you controls more of them in play.

The Return of Allies Ability

Although Shrines have been appeared sporadically across newer sets, Allies subtype was seldom seen — until that ends with ATLA, where the mechanic gets prominently used.

The protagonist Aang must gather many allies during his quest to bring back peace across the world, and there's no more fitting method to show that in a Magic: The Gathering set.

Exclusive Cards Showcase

After the first set announcement, here is previews at one Ally plus a Shrine card in the upcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender release.

Teo: A Beloved Character

Teo is one beloved supporting figure from ATLA, a young man of Earth Kingdom who lived in the Northern Air Temple following his village was ruined by a flood, an event that left him paraplegic.

Due to his father's expertise with mechanics, Teo is able to glide in the air with a flying device, even challenges the Avatar to a flying race.

The card Teo, Spirited Glider represents Teo's fondness of flying and the Earth Tribe's use on gliders through allowing the player draw and discard each time you attack using an airborne creature, while additionally strengthening your team with counters at the same time.

Northern Air Temple: A Powerful Shrine Enchantment

Speaking of Teo's dwelling, this appears as a card named Northern Air Temple, which drains your opponent's life total when entering play, based on the number Shrine cards you have.

The card furthermore removes one more life anytime another Shrine comes onto the battlefield.

It appears to be a powerful card, considering the card's cheap cost plus good ETB effect.

One big drawback for Shrine decks outside of Commander is the fact that Shrines are always legendary permanents, however this card is effective in combination alongside another Shrine, that deals damage to all opponents during the start of your turn.

A Timely Collaboration

At a time when Universes Beyond sets are receiving significant backlash from fans, a beloved franchise like Avatar: The Last Airbender could be exactly just what Magic: The Gathering needs.

Preview period is already here, with all cards set to be released on Nov. 21.

Kimberly Huffman
Kimberly Huffman

A passionate hiker and outdoor writer who documents trails worldwide and advocates for sustainable adventure travel.