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

Magic: The Gathering enthusiasts frequently embrace tribal tactics — what player hasn't assembled a goblin deck once or twice? — while the upcoming ATLA Universes Beyond release is reintroducing 2 popular examples which match seamlessly to the setting.

Returning Tribe-Supporting Mechanics

One first ability, named "Allies," first debuted with the Zendikar and gives buffs whenever additional permanents bearing this type enter the field.

On the other hand, "Shrines" is another enchantment subtype which originated with Champions of Kamigawa. While not exactly a creature tribe, these enchantments likewise become strength as a player controls additional Shrines on the battlefield.

The Comeback for the Ally Ability

Although Shrine cards have been shown up occasionally in recent sets, Allies subtype was much rarer — but that ends with ATLA, where this feature is heavily featured.

The protagonist Aang must gather numerous companions during the journey to bring back peace to the four nations, and there's no better method to reflect this through a Magic: The Gathering expansion.

Exclusive Cards Showcase

Following its first card announcement, below is previews of an Ally plus a Shrines card in the new ATLA release.

Teo, Spirited Glider: A Fan-Favorite Figure

This character stands as a cherished minor figure from ATLA, a young man from Earth Kingdom that resided at an Air Temple after his home was destroyed by a disaster, an event that left him unable to walk.

Because of his father's expertise with mechanics, Teo is able to glide in the air using a flying device, and challenges Aang in an aerial race.

This card Teo represents Teo's love of the skies along with his tribe's use of gliders by letting you loot each time you attack using a flying unit, and additionally strengthening your team with +1/+1 counters at the same time.

Northern Air Temple: The Strong Shrine

Regarding Teo's dwelling, this is represented in the card Northern Air Temple, that reduces your opponent's life total upon entering play, depending on how many Shrine cards you control.

The card furthermore drains an additional life anytime another Shrine comes onto the field.

This appears to be an impactful addition, considering its cheap mana cost plus valuable ETB ability.

One major weakness of Shrine decks in formats besides Commander is the fact that these cards are typically legendary permanents, but this card can be great when paired alongside another Shrine, that deals damage to all opponents at the beginning of your turn.

The Timely Crossover

Currently while Universes Beyond products have been receiving significant backlash from the community, an iconic franchise like Avatar can be exactly just what MTG requires.

Spoiler season is already here, with all cards set to be released November 21st.

Shelly Arias
Shelly Arias

A passionate gamer and tech enthusiast, Lena shares insights on gaming trends and community highlights.