Scoop: How Magic: The Gathering's Avatar: The Last Airbender Expansion Brings Back 2 Fan-Favorite Tribe-Focused Mechanics
Magic: The Gathering fans often enjoy tribal strategies — what player hasn't assembled an elf strategy at some point? — while the new ATLA Universes Beyond release brings back 2 popular examples that align seamlessly with its flavor.
Returning Tribe-Supporting Abilities
The first ability, known as "Allies," first introduced with a Zendikar set which gives boosts each time more permanents with this type enter the field.
On the other hand, "Shrine" is another enchantment subtype that first appeared in Kamigawa. While not a creature tribal theme, Shrines also become power when you owns more Shrines on the battlefield.
The Comeback for the Ally Mechanic
While Shrines have shown up occasionally across newer releases, the Ally subtype has been far less common — but that ends with ATLA, where this mechanic is heavily featured.
The protagonist Aang has to recruit a lot of companions on his quest to bring back balance across the world, and there's no better method to show that in a Magic: The Gathering expansion.
Exclusive Card Showcase
Following its first set reveal, below is previews at an Ally plus a Shrine card from the new Avatar: The Last Airbender release.
Teo, Spirited Glider: The Beloved Figure
Teo stands as one cherished supporting figure from ATLA, a boy of the Earth Tribe who lived in an Air Temple after his home was ruined in a disaster, an event that rendered him paraplegic.
Thanks to his dad's expertise in mechanics, he is able to soar through the skies with his glider, and dares the Avatar in an aerial race.
The card Teo, Spirited Glider represents his passion of flying along with the Earth Tribe's use on gliders by allowing the player draw and discard each time you attack with an airborne creature, while also pumping your creatures via counters at the same time.
Northern Air Temple: The Strong Shrine Enchantment
Speaking of Teo's dwelling, it appears as the card Northern Air Temple, that reduces your opponent's life total upon coming into play, based on the number Shrine cards you control.
The card furthermore removes one more life whenever a Shrine enters the field.
It looks like a strong addition, considering the card's low mana cost and valuable ETB ability.
A big drawback of Shrine-based decks outside of Commander is the fact that these cards are typically Legendary, but Northern Air Temple is great when paired with another Shrine, that deals damage to every opponent at the beginning of your turn.
The Timely Collaboration
At a time while crossover products are garnering significant backlash from fans, a beloved franchise such as Avatar: The Last Airbender can be exactly what Magic: The Gathering needs.
Spoiler season has begun, and the full set set to be released on Nov. 21.