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MTG players frequently embrace tribal tactics — what player hasn't constructed a zombie deck at some point? — while this upcoming ATLA Universes Beyond set is reintroducing two well-known examples which fit seamlessly with its theme.

Returning Tribe-Supporting Abilities

The first mechanic, called "Allies," was introduced in a Zendikar set which gives buffs whenever additional permanents bearing the Ally type come onto the field.

Meanwhile, "Shrines" represents another enchantment subtype which originated with Champions of Kamigawa. Although not exactly creature-based tribe, Shrines likewise gain abilities when a player has additional Shrines on the battlefield.

The Comeback of Allies Mechanic

While Shrines have been appeared here and there across newer sets, the Ally mechanic was seldom seen — but this ends in Avatar: The Last Airbender, where this feature gets central.

The protagonist Aang must gather numerous companions on the quest to bring back balance to the world, so it's no more fitting method to reflect that through a Magic set.

Revealed Card Preview

Following its first set announcement, here is previews at one Ally plus a Shrines cards from the upcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender release.

Teo, Spirited Glider: A Beloved Character

Teo is a cherished minor character in Avatar: The Last Airbender, a boy of the Earth Tribe who resided in the Northern Air Temple following his home was ruined by a disaster, which left him paraplegic.

Thanks to his father's skill with engineering, Teo is able to fly through the skies using his glider, even dares Aang to a flying race.

The card Teo, Spirited Glider represents Teo's fondness of the skies and his tribe's use of gliders through allowing you loot whenever a player attacks using an airborne unit, while additionally pumping your team with counters at the same time.

The Temple Card: A Strong Shrine Enchantment

Speaking of his dwelling, this appears in a card named The Northern Air Temple, which reduces your opponent's life total when entering play, depending on how many of Shrines you control.

The card also drains one more life whenever another Shrine comes onto the field.

This looks like a strong card, considering its low cost and valuable ETB ability.

A major drawback of Shrine strategies in formats besides Commander are that Shrines are always legendary permanents, however this card is effective in combination with another Shrine, which deals damage to all opponents during the start of your main phase.

A Timely Crossover

At a time when crossover products are garnering significant backlash by fans, an iconic franchise like Avatar could be precisely just what Magic: The Gathering needs.

Spoiler season is already here, and the full set set to be launched November 21st.