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MTG enthusiasts consistently enjoy tribal decks — what player hasn't assembled a zombie strategy before? — and the forthcoming ATLA Universes Beyond release is reintroducing 2 popular examples that align perfectly to the setting.

Reappearing Tribe-Supporting Abilities

One initial mechanic, called "Allies," first debuted in a Zendikar set which grants bonuses each time more creatures bearing this subtype come onto the field.

On the other hand, "Shrine" represents another enchantment-based type that first appeared with Champions of Kamigawa. While not exactly a creature tribe, these enchantments also become strength as a player controls more Shrines on the battlefield.

The Comeback for the Ally Mechanic

While Shrines have been appeared sporadically across newer sets, Allies subtype has been far less common — but this ends in Avatar: The Last Airbender, where the feature gets heavily featured.

Aang must gather many friends during his journey to bring back balance to the four nations, and it's no more fitting way to reflect this in a Magic set.

Exclusive Card Preview

After its initial set reveal, below are a look of an Allies and a Shrines card in the new ATLA release.

Teo, Spirited Glider: A Beloved Figure

This character is a cherished minor character from Avatar: The Last Airbender, a boy from Earth Kingdom who resided in the Northern Air Temple following his home was destroyed in a disaster, an event that rendered him paraplegic.

Due to his dad's skill with mechanics, Teo can fly in the air with his glider, and dares the Avatar to a flying contest.

The card Teo, Spirited Glider represents Teo's passion for flying and the Earth Tribe's use of gliders by allowing you loot whenever a player attacks with an airborne unit, and additionally pumping your team via +1/+1 counters at the same time.

The Temple Card: A Powerful Shrine

Regarding his home, it is represented as a card named Northern Air Temple, that drains an opponent's life total when entering the battlefield, depending on the number of Shrines you have.

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

This looks like a strong card, given its low mana cost and valuable ETB effect.

One big drawback of Shrine-based decks in formats besides EDH is that these cards are always legendary permanents, however Northern Air Temple is effective when paired with Sanctum of Stone Fangs, which deals damage to all opponents at the beginning of your main phase.

The Welcome Collaboration

Currently while Universes Beyond products have been receiving significant criticism by fans, a beloved series such as Avatar: The Last Airbender can be precisely what Magic: The Gathering needs.

Spoiler season has begun, with the full set set to be released November 21st.