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MTG players consistently enjoy tribe-based decks — who hasn't constructed a zombie strategy before? — while this forthcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender Universes Beyond release brings back 2 beloved examples that align seamlessly with its flavor.

Returning Tribal Abilities

One first mechanic, named "Allies," was introduced in the Zendikar set which gives bonuses whenever more permanents with the Ally subtype enter the field.

Alternatively, "Shrines" represents another enchantment-based type that first appeared with Kamigawa. While not a creature tribe, Shrines also gain strength when you has more of them in play.

The Return of the Ally Ability

While Shrine cards have been appeared occasionally in newer releases, Allies mechanic was much rarer — until that ends in ATLA, in which the feature gets heavily featured.

The protagonist Aang has to gather numerous companions during his quest to bring back peace across the world, so it's no more fitting method to show that through a Magic: The Gathering expansion.

Revealed Cards Preview

Following the first card reveal, below are a look at one Ally plus a Shrines card in the new ATLA set.

Teo, Spirited Glider: A Beloved Character

This character stands as a beloved supporting figure in ATLA, a boy of Earth Kingdom who lived at the Northern Air Temple following his home was ruined by a flood, which left him unable to walk.

Thanks to his father's expertise with engineering, he can fly in the air with a flying device, and dares the Avatar in a flying race.

The card Teo showcases his fondness for the skies and the Earth Tribe's use of flying machines through letting you loot each time you attack using an airborne unit, while also boosting your creatures with +1/+1 counters at the same time.

Northern Air Temple: A Powerful Shrine Enchantment

Regarding his home, it appears as a card named The Northern Air Temple, which reduces your opponent's life upon coming into the battlefield, based on how many of Shrines you control.

The card also removes one more point anytime a Shrine comes onto the field.

It appears to be an impactful addition, given the card's low cost and valuable enter the battlefield ability.

One major weakness of Shrine-based decks outside of Commander is that these cards are always legendary permanents, however this card can be effective when paired with another Shrine, that deals damage to all opponents at the beginning of your turn.

The Timely Crossover

Currently while Universes Beyond sets are receiving significant backlash from fans, a beloved series like Avatar: The Last Airbender could be exactly just what Magic: The Gathering requires.

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