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

MTG players frequently adopt tribal strategies — what player hasn't built a goblin deck before? — and this upcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender Universes Beyond release is reintroducing 2 popular examples that fit perfectly with the flavor.

Reappearing Tribe-Supporting Abilities

The first mechanic, known as "Allies," first introduced with the Zendikar set which grants bonuses each time more permanents bearing this type enter the field.

On the other hand, "Shrines" represents an enchantment-based type which originated in Champions of Kamigawa. Although not exactly creature-based tribe, these enchantments also become power when you has additional Shrines on the battlefield.

A Comeback for the Ally Mechanic

While Shrine cards have been shown up occasionally across recent sets, Allies subtype was much rarer — but that changes with ATLA, where the mechanic gets central.

The protagonist Aang must gather numerous companions during the journey to restore balance across the world, and it's no more fitting way to represent that through a Magic: The Gathering expansion.

Revealed Card Showcase

Following its first card announcement, here is a look at an Ally and one Shrine cards in the upcoming ATLA release.

Teo: A Beloved Character

This character is a beloved supporting figure in Avatar: The Last Airbender, a young man of the Earth Tribe that resided at the Northern Air Temple after his home was ruined in a flood, an event that left him paraplegic.

Due to his father's skill in engineering, Teo can soar in the air with a flying device, and dares Aang in an aerial contest.

This card Teo showcases his love for the skies and his tribe's reliance on flying machines through letting you draw and discard whenever you attack using an airborne creature, while also strengthening your team with +1/+1 counters in the process.

Northern Air Temple: A Powerful Shrine

Speaking of his dwelling, it appears as a card named Northern Air Temple, which drains an opponent's life total upon entering the battlefield, depending on how many of Shrines you have.

The card furthermore drains an additional point whenever a Shrine enters the field.

It appears to be an impactful addition, considering its low cost and good enter the battlefield effect.

A big drawback of Shrine strategies outside of EDH are the fact that Shrines are typically Legendary, but Northern Air Temple is great when paired with another Shrine, which drains all opponents at the beginning of your main phase.

A Timely Collaboration

Currently while crossover products are receiving a lot of criticism by fans, an iconic series like Avatar: The Last Airbender could be precisely just what MTG requires.

Preview period is already here, with all cards will be launched on Nov. 21.

Tracy Wright
Tracy Wright

Lena is a strategy consultant and avid gamer, sharing practical advice to help readers master complex challenges.