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MTG enthusiasts often embrace tribal strategies — what player has not assembled a zombie deck at some point? — and the upcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender Universes Beyond release is reintroducing two well-known examples that match perfectly to its flavor.

Returning Tribe-Supporting Abilities

The initial ability, named "Ally," first debuted with a Zendikar which grants bonuses each time additional creatures bearing this type enter the battlefield.

On the other hand, "Shrine" is an enchantment-based type which originated in Kamigawa. While not creature-based tribal theme, Shrines also become strength when a player owns additional of them in play.

The Return of Allies Mechanic

While Shrines have been shown up sporadically across newer sets, the Ally mechanic has been seldom seen — but this ends with Avatar: The Last Airbender, in which this mechanic gets central.

The protagonist Aang must assemble many allies on the journey to bring back balance across the four nations, so there's no better method to represent this in an Magic: The Gathering set.

Revealed Card Preview

Following its initial set announcement, below is previews of one Allies and a Shrine card from the new ATLA release.

Teo, Spirited Glider: The Fan-Favorite Figure

This character is a cherished supporting figure in Avatar: The Last Airbender, a young man of the Earth Tribe who lived at the Northern Air Temple after his village was destroyed in a flood, an event that rendered him unable to walk.

Due to his dad's expertise with engineering, he is able to soar in the air using a flying device, and challenges Aang to an aerial race.

This card Teo represents Teo's passion of flying and the Earth Tribe's reliance on gliders through letting you loot each time you attack using a flying creature, and additionally pumping your creatures with counters in the process.

Northern Air Temple: A Powerful Shrine

Speaking of his home, it is represented in the card The Northern Air Temple, which reduces an opponent's life upon coming into the battlefield, based on how many Shrine cards you control.

It furthermore drains one more point whenever a Shrine enters the field.

It appears to be an impactful addition, given its cheap cost and valuable enter the battlefield ability.

One big weakness for Shrine-based strategies in formats besides Commander are the fact that these cards are typically legendary permanents, however this card is effective when paired with Sanctum of Stone Fangs, that deals damage to every opponent at the beginning of your turn.

A Welcome Crossover

Currently while crossover sets have been receiving significant backlash from fans, a beloved series like Avatar: The Last Airbender could be exactly what Magic: The Gathering requires.

Spoiler season is already here, with all cards will be released November 21st.