Exclusive: How Magic's Avatar: The Last Airbender Expansion Revives 2 Popular Tribe-Focused Mechanics

MTG players frequently embrace tribe-based tactics — what player hasn't constructed a zombie deck before? — while the upcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender crossover set brings back 2 popular mechanics which fit perfectly with the theme.

Returning Tribal Mechanics

One first ability, known as "Allies," was introduced with a Zendikar set which grants boosts each time additional permanents with this type enter play.

Alternatively, "Shrine" is an enchantment type which first appeared in Champions of Kamigawa. While not creature-based tribal theme, Shrines likewise become abilities as a player has additional Shrines on the battlefield.

A Comeback for Allies Mechanic

While Shrine cards have appeared here and there in newer sets, the Ally mechanic has been much rarer — until that changes in ATLA, in which this mechanic gets prominently used.

Aang must recruit numerous allies on his quest to bring back balance to the world, and there's no better way to show that in an Magic: The Gathering expansion.

Revealed Cards Showcase

Following the initial set reveal, below is a look of an Ally plus a Shrine card in the upcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender set.

Teo: The Beloved Figure

Teo is a popular supporting figure in Avatar: The Last Airbender, a boy from the Earth Tribe who lived in the Northern Air Temple following his village was destroyed in a flood, which rendered him paraplegic.

Due to his dad's expertise with engineering, Teo is able to fly in the air using a flying device, even challenges Aang in a flying contest.

This card Teo showcases Teo's love for the skies and the Earth Tribe's use on gliders by allowing you loot each time you attack using a flying unit, while also strengthening your creatures via counters in the process.

Northern Air Temple: The Powerful Shrine

Speaking of Teo's dwelling, this appears in the card The Northern Air Temple, which drains an opponent's life upon entering play, based on the number of Shrines you control.

It furthermore removes an additional point whenever another Shrine enters the field.

It appears to be an impactful card, considering its low cost and good ETB ability.

One big drawback for Shrine decks in formats besides Commander is the fact that Shrines are typically Legendary, however Northern Air Temple can be effective in combination alongside another Shrine, which drains every opponent during the start of your turn.

The Timely Crossover

Currently while Universes Beyond sets have been receiving significant criticism by fans, a beloved franchise like Avatar could be precisely just what Magic: The Gathering needs.

Spoiler season is already here, with the full set set to be launched on Nov. 21.