Reveal: The Way Magic's Avatar Set Brings Back 2 Popular Tribal Mechanics

MTG fans frequently adopt tribal decks — what player has not assembled a goblin strategy at some point? — and this forthcoming ATLA crossover set is reintroducing two beloved examples that fit perfectly with the setting.

Returning Tribe-Supporting Abilities

The first ability, called "Ally," was debuted in a Zendikar set and provides boosts each time additional creatures bearing the Ally type come onto the battlefield.

Alternatively, "Shrines" is another enchantment-based type which originated with Kamigawa. Although not a creature tribal theme, these enchantments likewise become strength as a player controls more Shrines in play.

The Return of Allies Mechanic

While Shrine cards have been shown up here and there in newer releases, the Ally mechanic was far less common — but this changes in ATLA, in which the mechanic gets prominently used.

The protagonist Aang has to gather numerous allies on the journey to bring back peace to the world, so there's no more fitting way to represent that in a Magic: The Gathering expansion.

Revealed Card Showcase

After its initial card announcement, here is a look of one Allies plus one Shrine cards in the new ATLA release.

Teo: The Beloved Character

Teo is a popular minor character from ATLA, a boy of Earth Kingdom that resided in the Northern Air Temple following his home was ruined in a disaster, which rendered him unable to walk.

Thanks to his father's skill in engineering, Teo can glide in the air using a flying device, and dares Aang to a flying contest.

The card Teo, Spirited Glider showcases Teo's passion of the skies and the Earth Tribe's use on flying machines by letting the player draw and discard whenever a player attacks using an airborne creature, while additionally strengthening your team via +1/+1 counters in the process.

Northern Air Temple: A Strong Shrine Enchantment

Regarding his dwelling, it appears as the card Northern Air Temple, that reduces your opponent's life when entering play, depending on how many of Shrines you control.

It furthermore removes one more life whenever another Shrine enters the field.

It looks like a powerful addition, considering its low mana cost and valuable enter the battlefield ability.

One big drawback for Shrine-based decks outside of Commander is that these cards are always legendary permanents, however this card can be great in combination with Sanctum of Stone Fangs, which drains all opponents during the start of your main phase.

The Welcome Collaboration

Currently when Universes Beyond products are receiving a lot of criticism by the community, a beloved series such as Avatar could be precisely just what Magic: The Gathering needs.

Spoiler season is already here, and the full set will be launched on Nov. 21.

Robin Hebert
Robin Hebert

A passionate writer and life coach dedicated to helping others achieve their full potential through mindful practices.

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