Scoop: The Way Magic's Avatar Expansion Revives 2 Popular Tribe-Focused Mechanics

Magic: The Gathering enthusiasts frequently embrace tribal tactics — who has not constructed an elf strategy at some point? — while the forthcoming ATLA crossover set is reintroducing two beloved examples which fit seamlessly to the flavor.

Reappearing Tribal Mechanics

The initial ability, named "Ally," first debuted with a Zendikar set which provides buffs each time more creatures bearing the Ally subtype enter the field.

Alternatively, "Shrine" is another enchantment-based type which first appeared with Champions of Kamigawa. While not exactly a creature tribe, Shrines also become power when you has more Shrines on the battlefield.

The Return of the Ally Mechanic

Although Shrines have been shown up here and there in newer releases, the Ally mechanic has been seldom seen — but this changes in ATLA, in which the mechanic is prominently used.

Aang has to recruit numerous allies during the quest to bring back balance to the four nations, so it's no better method to reflect this through a Magic: The Gathering set.

Exclusive Card Showcase

Following its first set announcement, here are previews at one Ally and a Shrine card in the upcoming ATLA release.

Teo, Spirited Glider: A Beloved Figure

This character is a beloved supporting figure in ATLA, a young man from the Earth Tribe that resided at an Air Temple following his village was ruined by a disaster, an event that left him paraplegic.

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

This card Teo, Spirited Glider represents his passion of the skies and the Earth Tribe's use of gliders by letting you draw and discard whenever you attack with a flying creature, and also strengthening your team with +1/+1 counters at the same time.

The Temple Card: A Strong Shrine

Speaking of Teo's home, it is represented in a card named The Northern Air Temple, that drains an opponent's life total upon entering the battlefield, depending on the number Shrine cards you control.

It also removes an additional point anytime another Shrine comes onto the battlefield.

It looks like an impactful card, given its cheap cost and good ETB ability.

A big drawback for Shrine strategies outside of Commander is that Shrines are always legendary permanents, but Northern Air Temple is effective when paired alongside Sanctum of Stone Fangs, which drains every opponent during the start of your turn.

The Welcome Crossover

Currently while crossover sets are receiving a lot of criticism by the community, an iconic franchise like Avatar: The Last Airbender could be exactly just what MTG needs.

Preview period is already here, and all cards set to be released November 21st.