🔗 Share this article

MTG players consistently embrace tribe-based decks — who hasn't constructed a zombie strategy before? — and this forthcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender crossover release revives two well-known examples which fit seamlessly with the theme.

Returning Tribal Mechanics

The first mechanic, known as "Allies," first introduced with the Zendikar which provides boosts each time additional creatures with this type enter play.

Meanwhile, "Shrine" represents an enchantment type that first appeared with Champions of Kamigawa. While not creature-based tribe, these enchantments likewise become abilities as you has more of them in play.

The Comeback of Allies Mechanic

Although Shrine cards have been shown up occasionally across recent sets, Allies subtype was seldom seen — until that changes with Avatar: The Last Airbender, in which the feature gets central.

The protagonist Aang must gather numerous friends on his quest to bring back peace to the four nations, and there's no better way to reflect that in a Magic: The Gathering expansion.

Exclusive Card Showcase

After its first set announcement, below are previews of one Ally plus one Shrine card from the upcoming ATLA release.

Teo, Spirited Glider: The Fan-Favorite Character

This character stands as a cherished minor figure in Avatar: The Last Airbender, a young man from the Earth Tribe that lived in the Northern Air Temple following his home was destroyed in a disaster, an event that rendered him unable to walk.

Due to his dad's skill with engineering, he can glide through the skies using his glider, even dares the Avatar in a flying contest.

This card Teo, Spirited Glider reproduces his love for flying and his tribe's reliance of flying machines through letting the player loot whenever a player attacks using a flying unit, and additionally boosting your team with counters in the process.

Northern Air Temple: The Strong Shrine Enchantment

Speaking of Teo's home, this appears as the card Northern Air Temple, which drains your opponent's life total upon coming into the battlefield, based on the number Shrine cards you have.

The card furthermore removes one more life anytime another Shrine comes onto the battlefield.

This appears to be an impactful addition, given its cheap mana cost plus valuable ETB ability.

A major drawback of Shrine strategies outside of EDH is the fact that these cards are typically legendary permanents, but Northern Air Temple can be great in combination with Sanctum of Stone Fangs, which drains every opponent during the start of your main phase.

The Timely Crossover

Currently while Universes Beyond sets are garnering significant criticism by fans, a beloved series such as Avatar: The Last Airbender can be exactly what MTG needs.

Spoiler season is already here, with all cards will be launched on Nov. 21.