Scoop: The Way Magic: The Gathering's Avatar Set Revives 2 Popular Tribal Gameplay Features

MTG fans often adopt tribal decks — who hasn't built a zombie strategy once or twice? — while the upcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender Universes Beyond release revives two beloved examples which align perfectly to the flavor.

Reappearing Tribe-Supporting Abilities

One first ability, called "Ally," first debuted in a Zendikar set and grants buffs whenever more creatures with the Ally subtype come onto play.

Meanwhile, "Shrine" is an enchantment subtype that first appeared with Kamigawa. Although not a creature tribal theme, these enchantments likewise become power when you has more Shrines in play.

A Comeback of the Ally Mechanic

Although Shrine cards have been appeared sporadically across recent sets, Allies subtype has been much rarer — but this changes with Avatar: The Last Airbender, in which the feature gets heavily featured.

Aang has to assemble numerous companions during the journey to restore balance to the four nations, so it's no better method to represent this through a Magic set.

Revealed Cards Preview

Following its initial set reveal, here are previews at an Ally plus one Shrine cards from the upcoming ATLA set.

Teo, Spirited Glider: A Fan-Favorite Figure

This character stands as a cherished minor figure in Avatar: The Last Airbender, a young man of the Earth Tribe who lived in an Air Temple following his home was ruined by a disaster, which rendered him unable to walk.

Because of his dad's skill in mechanics, Teo can glide through the skies using a flying device, and dares the Avatar to an aerial contest.

This card Teo, Spirited Glider showcases his love of flying and his tribe's use of gliders through letting you loot each time a player attacks with a flying creature, and additionally pumping your team via counters at the same time.

The Temple Card: The Powerful Shrine

Regarding his dwelling, this is represented in the card Northern Air Temple, that drains your opponent's life total upon coming into play, depending on the number Shrine cards you control.

The card also removes one more point whenever a Shrine enters the battlefield.

It looks like a powerful addition, considering its low mana cost and valuable ETB effect.

One big drawback for Shrine-based decks outside of EDH is the fact that Shrines are typically legendary permanents, however this card is great when paired alongside Sanctum of Stone Fangs, that drains every opponent at the beginning of your turn.

A Timely Crossover

At a time when Universes Beyond sets have been garnering significant hate from fans, an iconic series such as Avatar: The Last Airbender can be precisely just what Magic: The Gathering requires.

Preview period is already here, with the full set will be launched November 21st.