🔗 Share this article Scoop: The Way Magic's Avatar Set Brings Back Two Popular Tribe-Focused Gameplay Features Magic: The Gathering enthusiasts frequently enjoy tribe-based decks — who has not constructed an elf strategy before? — and this forthcoming ATLA Universes Beyond set brings back two popular mechanics that match perfectly with the setting. Returning Tribal Mechanics The initial ability, known as "Ally," first introduced with the Zendikar set and gives buffs whenever more creatures with the Ally type come onto the battlefield. Meanwhile, "Shrine" represents another enchantment-based subtype which originated in Kamigawa. While not exactly a creature tribal theme, these enchantments likewise become power as you controls additional Shrines on the battlefield. The Comeback for the Ally Mechanic Although Shrine cards have been appeared occasionally across newer sets, the Ally mechanic has been far less common — but this ends with Avatar: The Last Airbender, in which this mechanic gets central. The protagonist Aang must assemble numerous allies during his quest to restore peace to the four nations, and it's no more fitting way to represent that through an Magic expansion. Exclusive Cards Preview Following its initial card reveal, here are a look of one Ally and a Shrines cards in the upcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender set. Teo: The Fan-Favorite Figure This character is a popular supporting figure in ATLA, a young man from Earth Kingdom that lived in the Northern Air Temple after his village was destroyed by a flood, which rendered him paraplegic. Because of his father's expertise in engineering, he is able to soar through the skies using a flying device, and challenges Aang to an aerial contest. The card Teo showcases Teo's fondness of the skies along with his tribe's use on gliders by letting you loot each time you attack with an airborne unit, while also pumping your team via +1/+1 counters in the process. The Temple Card: A Powerful Shrine Regarding Teo's home, this is represented as a card named Northern Air Temple, that drains an opponent's life upon coming into play, based on the number Shrine cards you have. It furthermore removes one more point whenever another Shrine comes onto the battlefield. This appears to be a powerful addition, considering the card's low cost and valuable ETB ability. A major drawback for Shrine decks in formats besides Commander is that Shrines are typically legendary permanents, but Northern Air Temple is effective when paired alongside Sanctum of Stone Fangs, which deals damage to every opponent during the start of your main phase. The Timely Crossover At a time while Universes Beyond products are receiving significant criticism by the community, an iconic series like Avatar can be exactly what MTG requires. Preview period is already here, and the full set will be released on Nov. 21.