Magic: The Gathering players consistently adopt tribe-based decks — what player has not built an elf strategy once or twice? — while this forthcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender Universes Beyond release revives two popular mechanics that match perfectly with the flavor.
The initial ability, called "Allies," first debuted in the Zendikar which grants bonuses each time more permanents with the Ally type come onto play.
Alternatively, "Shrine" is another enchantment-based subtype which originated in Champions of Kamigawa. While not a creature tribal theme, Shrines also become power when a player owns additional of them on the battlefield.
Although Shrine cards have been shown up here and there in newer releases, Allies subtype was far less common — but that changes in ATLA, where this feature gets prominently used.
Aang must recruit many allies during the journey to bring back balance across the four nations, and there's no more fitting method to represent that through a Magic expansion.
Following the initial card reveal, below are a look at one Allies and one Shrines card in the upcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender release.
This character is one cherished minor character in ATLA, a boy of the Earth Tribe who lived at the Northern Air Temple after his village was ruined in a flood, which left him unable to walk.
Because of his father's skill in mechanics, Teo can fly in the air using a flying device, even dares Aang to an aerial race.
This card Teo, Spirited Glider showcases his love of flying along with his tribe's use of flying machines through allowing the player draw and discard each time a player attacks with an airborne creature, and also boosting your creatures with counters at the same time.
Regarding Teo's dwelling, it is represented in the card Northern Air Temple, that drains your opponent's life upon entering play, based on how many Shrine cards you control.
It also removes an additional point whenever another Shrine enters the field.
It appears to be a powerful card, considering its cheap mana cost and good ETB ability.
A major drawback for Shrine strategies in formats besides Commander is the fact that Shrines are always Legendary, but this card can be great when paired with another Shrine, that deals damage to all opponents during the start of your turn.
Currently when Universes Beyond products are garnering significant hate by fans, a beloved franchise such as Avatar can be precisely just what Magic: The Gathering requires.
Spoiler season is already here, and all cards will be launched November 21st.
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