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MTG players often enjoy tribal strategies — what player hasn't constructed an elf strategy once or twice? — and the new ATLA Universes Beyond release brings back two beloved examples that match seamlessly to its theme.

Reappearing Tribal Mechanics

The first ability, known as "Allies," was introduced in a Zendikar set and gives buffs each time additional creatures bearing the Ally type come onto the battlefield.

On the other hand, "Shrine" represents an enchantment subtype which originated in Champions of Kamigawa. While not creature-based tribal theme, Shrines likewise become power as a player controls more of them in play.

The Comeback of Allies Mechanic

While Shrine cards have been appeared here and there in newer sets, Allies subtype was seldom seen — until this changes in Avatar: The Last Airbender, in which the mechanic is heavily featured.

Aang has to assemble numerous friends on his journey to restore balance to the four nations, and it's no more fitting method to show that in a Magic: The Gathering set.

Exclusive Card Showcase

After the first card reveal, here is previews at an Ally and a Shrines cards in the upcoming ATLA release.

Teo, Spirited Glider: The Fan-Favorite Character

Teo is a cherished minor character from Avatar: The Last Airbender, a young man from Earth Kingdom that resided at an Air Temple after his home was destroyed by a flood, which rendered him unable to walk.

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

The card Teo, Spirited Glider showcases his fondness for flying along with his tribe's reliance on flying machines by allowing you draw and discard each time a player attacks using an airborne unit, and additionally pumping your creatures via +1/+1 counters in the process.

The Temple Card: A Powerful Shrine Enchantment

Regarding Teo's home, it appears in the card The Northern Air Temple, that reduces your opponent's life upon entering the battlefield, based on the number Shrine cards you have.

It furthermore drains an additional life whenever another Shrine comes onto the field.

It looks like a strong addition, considering its low cost plus good enter the battlefield effect.

A big weakness of Shrine decks in formats besides Commander is that these cards are always Legendary, however this card is effective in combination alongside another Shrine, which drains all opponents during the start of your main phase.

The Welcome Collaboration

Currently when Universes Beyond products are receiving significant hate from fans, an iconic series like Avatar could be exactly just what MTG requires.

Spoiler season has begun, and all cards will be released November 21st.