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MTG players consistently adopt tribe-based decks — who has not built a zombie strategy at some point? — and the upcoming ATLA Universes Beyond set is reintroducing 2 beloved mechanics that match perfectly with the theme.

Reappearing Tribal Mechanics

One initial mechanic, named "Ally," was introduced with the Zendikar set and provides buffs whenever more creatures with the Ally subtype enter the field.

On the other hand, "Shrines" is an enchantment type that first appeared in Kamigawa. Although not exactly a creature tribal theme, these enchantments likewise gain strength as you has more Shrines on the battlefield.

The Comeback for Allies Ability

While Shrines have been appeared here and there across recent sets, the Ally subtype was seldom seen — but that ends with Avatar: The Last Airbender, where this feature is central.

The protagonist Aang must recruit a lot of allies during his quest to restore balance to the four nations, and there's no more fitting way to represent that in a Magic: The Gathering set.

Exclusive Cards Showcase

Following its first card reveal, below is a look of an Allies plus one Shrines card in the upcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender release.

Teo: The Beloved Figure

Teo is one cherished supporting character in ATLA, a young man of the Earth Tribe who lived in an Air Temple after his village was destroyed in a flood, which rendered him unable to walk.

Because of his father's expertise with engineering, Teo can soar through the skies using his glider, and dares the Avatar in a flying contest.

This card Teo, Spirited Glider represents Teo's fondness for flying along with his tribe's use on flying machines through letting you loot whenever you attack using an airborne creature, and additionally strengthening your team via +1/+1 counters in the process.

The Temple Card: A Strong Shrine Enchantment

Regarding his home, this is represented in a card named Northern Air Temple, that drains an opponent's life when coming into the battlefield, based on the number Shrine cards you control.

It also removes one more point whenever another Shrine comes onto the field.

This appears to be a powerful addition, given its low cost and valuable ETB ability.

A major drawback for Shrine decks outside of EDH is the fact that these cards are typically legendary permanents, but Northern Air Temple can be great in combination with Sanctum of Stone Fangs, which drains all opponents at the beginning of your main phase.

The Timely Crossover

At a time when crossover products are garnering a lot of hate by the community, a beloved franchise such as Avatar can be precisely what MTG needs.

Spoiler season has begun, with the full set will be released on Nov. 21.