Exclusive: How Magic's Avatar: The Last Airbender Set Revives Two Popular Tribal Mechanics

MTG enthusiasts often enjoy tribe-based decks — what player hasn't constructed a goblin deck once or twice? — while the new Avatar: The Last Airbender Universes Beyond set brings back 2 beloved mechanics that fit perfectly to the flavor.

Returning Tribe-Supporting Abilities

One initial ability, known as "Allies," first debuted with a Zendikar set which grants buffs whenever additional creatures with the Ally type come onto the battlefield.

On the other hand, "Shrine" is another enchantment subtype that originated in Champions of Kamigawa. Although not a creature tribe, Shrines likewise gain power when you has more of them on the battlefield.

A Comeback of the Ally Mechanic

Although Shrine cards have shown up occasionally in newer sets, Allies subtype was far less common — until that ends with ATLA, in which the feature gets central.

Aang has to gather many allies on his quest to restore balance to the four nations, so it's no more fitting way to show that through an Magic set.

Exclusive Card Showcase

After its initial set reveal, below is a look of one Allies plus a Shrine card in the upcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender release.

Teo, Spirited Glider: The Beloved Character

Teo stands as one cherished supporting figure from ATLA, a young man from Earth Kingdom who lived at an Air Temple following his home was destroyed by a flood, an event that left him paraplegic.

Because of his dad's expertise with engineering, he can soar through the skies with a flying device, and dares Aang to a flying contest.

This card Teo, Spirited Glider represents Teo's fondness for flying along with his tribe's reliance on gliders by allowing you loot each time you attack with an airborne unit, and additionally pumping your team with counters in the process.

Northern Air Temple: The Strong Shrine

Speaking of his home, it is represented as a card named Northern Air Temple, that drains an opponent's life total when entering play, based on the number Shrine cards you have.

It furthermore drains an additional life whenever another Shrine comes onto the field.

It appears to be a powerful card, considering its low mana cost and valuable enter the battlefield effect.

One big weakness of Shrine-based decks in formats besides Commander are that Shrines are always legendary permanents, but this card is effective in combination with another Shrine, that deals damage to all opponents during the start of your turn.

The Timely Crossover

At a time while crossover products have been garnering significant hate by fans, a beloved franchise like Avatar can be precisely what MTG requires.

Spoiler season has begun, and all cards will be released on Nov. 21.