Scoop: How Magic's Avatar Expansion Brings Back 2 Fan-Favorite Tribe-Focused Mechanics

MTG enthusiasts frequently enjoy tribal strategies — what player has not assembled a zombie deck before? — and the upcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender Universes Beyond set revives two beloved examples which match seamlessly to the flavor.

Returning Tribe-Supporting Abilities

The initial mechanic, called "Allies," first introduced with a Zendikar set and gives boosts each time additional permanents with the Ally type come onto the field.

On the other hand, "Shrine" represents another enchantment-based subtype which first appeared with Champions of Kamigawa. While not exactly a creature tribal theme, Shrines also become strength when a player has more Shrines in play.

The Comeback of the Ally Ability

While Shrines have appeared here and there across recent sets, the Ally mechanic has been much rarer — until this ends in Avatar: The Last Airbender, in which the feature gets central.

Aang must recruit many companions on his journey to restore peace across the world, and it's no better method to show that in an Magic expansion.

Exclusive Card Showcase

Following the first card announcement, below are a look at an Allies and one Shrines card from the upcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender release.

Teo, Spirited Glider: A Beloved Character

Teo stands as a beloved supporting figure in ATLA, a young man of the Earth Tribe who resided in the Northern Air Temple after his home was destroyed in a flood, an event that rendered him paraplegic.

Due to his father's skill with mechanics, Teo is able to fly in the air using his glider, and challenges Aang in an aerial contest.

This card Teo represents his fondness for the skies and the Earth Tribe's reliance of gliders through letting you loot whenever you attack with a flying creature, while also strengthening your team with counters at the same time.

Northern Air Temple: The Strong Shrine

Regarding Teo's home, it appears as the card Northern Air Temple, which drains an opponent's life total when entering the battlefield, depending on the number Shrine cards you have.

It also removes an additional life anytime a Shrine comes onto the battlefield.

This appears to be a strong addition, considering the card's low cost plus good ETB effect.

One big drawback for Shrine-based strategies outside of EDH is the fact that Shrines are typically Legendary, but Northern Air Temple is effective when paired with another Shrine, that drains every opponent at the beginning of your turn.

The Welcome Crossover

Currently when Universes Beyond sets have been garnering a lot of hate from fans, an iconic series like Avatar: The Last Airbender could be exactly what MTG requires.

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

Stacey Fields
Stacey Fields

Elara is a published novelist and writing coach with a passion for helping aspiring authors find their unique voice and build engaging stories.