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MTG players frequently adopt tribe-based strategies — who hasn't built a zombie strategy once or twice? — while this forthcoming ATLA Universes Beyond set is reintroducing 2 popular mechanics that match seamlessly to the flavor.

Returning Tribe-Supporting Abilities

One initial ability, called "Ally," first debuted in the Zendikar and provides bonuses whenever more permanents bearing this type enter play.

On the other hand, "Shrine" represents another enchantment subtype that originated in Champions of Kamigawa. Although not a creature tribal theme, Shrines also become power as a player has more of them in play.

A Comeback for the Ally Mechanic

Although Shrine cards have been shown up sporadically across newer sets, the Ally mechanic has been seldom seen — but that changes with Avatar: The Last Airbender, in which the mechanic is heavily featured.

The protagonist Aang has to gather many friends on his quest to restore balance to the world, and it's no more fitting way to show this through an Magic set.

Exclusive Cards Preview

Following its first card announcement, here are previews at an Allies plus a Shrine cards in the new Avatar: The Last Airbender set.

Teo, Spirited Glider: A Fan-Favorite Figure

Teo stands as a cherished supporting figure in Avatar: The Last Airbender, a boy from the Earth Tribe who lived at an Air Temple after his home was destroyed in a disaster, an event that rendered him unable to walk.

Because of his dad's prowess with mechanics, Teo can fly in the air using his glider, and challenges Aang in a flying contest.

The card Teo, Spirited Glider represents his fondness for flying along with the Earth Tribe's use on gliders by allowing you draw and discard whenever you attack with an airborne unit, while additionally strengthening your team with counters in the process.

Northern Air Temple: The Strong Shrine Enchantment

Regarding Teo's dwelling, this appears as a card named The Northern Air Temple, that reduces an opponent's life total upon coming into play, depending on how many of Shrines you have.

The card furthermore removes an additional life whenever a Shrine comes onto the battlefield.

This looks like an impactful addition, given the card's cheap cost plus good ETB effect.

A big weakness for Shrine-based strategies outside of Commander is that these cards are typically Legendary, however Northern Air Temple is great in combination alongside another Shrine, which drains all opponents during the start of your main phase.

The Welcome Collaboration

At a time when crossover sets are garnering a lot of hate from fans, an iconic franchise such as Avatar: The Last Airbender can be exactly just what Magic: The Gathering needs.

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