🔗 Share this article

MTG enthusiasts consistently enjoy tribe-based strategies — who hasn't constructed a zombie strategy once or twice? — and the forthcoming ATLA Universes Beyond release brings back two popular mechanics which fit seamlessly with the setting.

Returning Tribe-Supporting Mechanics

One first ability, known as "Ally," was introduced with a Zendikar set which grants buffs each time more permanents with this type come onto the battlefield.

Alternatively, "Shrines" represents another enchantment subtype that first appeared in Champions of Kamigawa. Although not exactly a creature tribal theme, Shrines likewise become power as you owns more of them on the battlefield.

A Comeback of the Ally Ability

While Shrine cards have been shown up occasionally in newer sets, the Ally subtype has been seldom seen — until this ends in ATLA, in which this feature gets heavily featured.

Aang must gather a lot of friends on his quest to restore peace to the four nations, and there's no better way to show that through a Magic: The Gathering expansion.

Exclusive Card Preview

Following its first card reveal, here is previews at one Ally plus one Shrine card from the new Avatar: The Last Airbender set.

Teo: A Fan-Favorite Character

This character stands as a cherished supporting figure from Avatar: The Last Airbender, a boy of the Earth Tribe that resided in the Northern Air Temple after his home was ruined in a flood, an event that rendered him paraplegic.

Because of his dad's skill with mechanics, he can fly in the air with a flying device, and dares the Avatar to an aerial race.

The card Teo, Spirited Glider showcases his fondness of the skies along with his tribe's reliance on gliders by allowing you loot whenever a player attacks with a flying creature, and additionally strengthening your creatures with counters in the process.

Northern Air Temple: The Strong Shrine Enchantment

Speaking of his dwelling, this is represented as the card Northern Air Temple, which reduces your opponent's life total when coming into play, depending on the number of Shrines you control.

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

It appears to be an impactful card, considering the card's cheap mana cost and good enter the battlefield ability.

A major drawback for Shrine strategies in formats besides Commander are that Shrines are typically Legendary, but this card is effective in combination with another Shrine, that drains all opponents at the beginning of your turn.

A Timely Collaboration

At a time when Universes Beyond products are garnering significant criticism by fans, an iconic series such as Avatar could be precisely just what MTG requires.

Preview period is already here, with all cards will be launched on Nov. 21.