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MTG enthusiasts often embrace tribe-based tactics — what player hasn't constructed a zombie strategy once or twice? — and the forthcoming ATLA Universes Beyond set brings back two popular mechanics which fit seamlessly to the setting.

Reappearing Tribal Abilities

The first ability, called "Ally," was introduced with a Zendikar which gives boosts each time more permanents with this type come onto the battlefield.

Alternatively, "Shrines" represents an enchantment-based type that originated with Champions of Kamigawa. Although not a creature tribe, these enchantments also gain abilities as you has more of them on the battlefield.

A Return of Allies Mechanic

While Shrine cards have been appeared sporadically across newer sets, Allies mechanic has been far less common — until this changes in Avatar: The Last Airbender, in which this feature is heavily featured.

The protagonist Aang must gather numerous companions during his quest to bring back peace across the four nations, so it's no better way to represent that in an Magic expansion.

Revealed Card Showcase

Following the initial set announcement, below is previews at an Ally and one Shrine card from the upcoming ATLA set.

Teo: A Fan-Favorite Figure

This character stands as a beloved supporting character in ATLA, a boy of the Earth Tribe that lived at the Northern Air Temple after his village was ruined by a flood, an event that left him paraplegic.

Thanks to his father's expertise with engineering, he can glide in the air using his glider, even challenges Aang to a flying race.

This card Teo, Spirited Glider represents his love for the skies and the Earth Tribe's use of gliders by allowing you draw and discard each time you attack with an airborne unit, while also pumping your creatures via counters in the process.

Northern Air Temple: A Powerful Shrine

Speaking of Teo's home, it is represented as a card named The Northern Air Temple, which drains your opponent's life total upon coming into the battlefield, based on how many of Shrines you control.

The card also removes an additional life anytime a Shrine enters the field.

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

One big weakness of Shrine-based decks outside of EDH is the fact that these cards are always legendary permanents, but this card is effective in combination with Sanctum of Stone Fangs, that deals damage to all opponents during the start of your main phase.

The Welcome Collaboration

Currently when Universes Beyond sets are receiving a lot of criticism by fans, an iconic series like Avatar: The Last Airbender could be precisely what Magic: The Gathering requires.

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