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Magic: The Gathering fans frequently adopt tribe-based tactics — what player has not assembled a zombie strategy at some point? — while the new ATLA Universes Beyond set revives 2 beloved mechanics which align seamlessly to the theme.

Returning Tribe-Supporting Abilities

One first ability, called "Allies," first debuted in a Zendikar and gives buffs whenever more permanents with this subtype enter the field.

Meanwhile, "Shrines" represents another enchantment subtype that originated in Champions of Kamigawa. Although not exactly creature-based tribe, these enchantments also become power when a player owns additional of them on the battlefield.

A Comeback of Allies Ability

Although Shrine cards have shown up sporadically in newer sets, Allies subtype was far less common — until this ends in Avatar: The Last Airbender, where this feature is prominently used.

The protagonist Aang must recruit a lot of allies during his journey to restore balance across the four nations, so it's no more fitting way to reflect this in a Magic expansion.

Exclusive Card Preview

Following the first set announcement, here are a look at an Ally plus one Shrine card from the upcoming ATLA set.

Teo, Spirited Glider: A Fan-Favorite Figure

This character is a cherished minor character from ATLA, a boy from the Earth Tribe who resided at the Northern Air Temple following his home was ruined in a flood, which left him paraplegic.

Due to his dad's prowess with engineering, he can glide in the air with a flying device, and dares the Avatar in a flying race.

This card Teo, Spirited Glider showcases his passion of the skies along with the Earth Tribe's reliance of gliders through letting you loot whenever you attack using a flying unit, and also pumping your creatures with counters in the process.

The Temple Card: A Powerful Shrine

Speaking of his dwelling, it appears in a card named The Northern Air Temple, which reduces an opponent's life upon entering the battlefield, based on the number Shrine cards you control.

The card furthermore drains one more life anytime a Shrine enters the field.

It appears to be a powerful addition, given the card's cheap cost plus valuable enter the battlefield effect.

A big weakness for Shrine-based strategies in formats besides EDH is the fact that these cards are always legendary permanents, but this card can be effective when paired with Sanctum of Stone Fangs, which drains all opponents during the start of your main phase.

A Welcome Crossover

Currently while crossover sets have been garnering significant hate by fans, a beloved series like Avatar: The Last Airbender could be exactly just what MTG requires.

Preview period has begun, with all cards will be released November 21st.