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Magic: The Gathering players frequently adopt tribe-based decks — what player hasn't assembled a goblin strategy at some point? — and this forthcoming ATLA Universes Beyond set revives two well-known mechanics which match seamlessly with its theme.

Returning Tribal Mechanics

The initial mechanic, called "Ally," first introduced in the Zendikar and gives boosts whenever more creatures bearing this type come onto the battlefield.

On the other hand, "Shrines" is an enchantment subtype that first appeared with Kamigawa. Although not exactly a creature tribal theme, these enchantments likewise become abilities when a player owns more Shrines on the battlefield.

A Comeback for Allies Ability

While Shrine cards have been appeared occasionally in recent sets, the Ally mechanic has been seldom seen — until this changes in Avatar: The Last Airbender, in which this feature gets central.

Aang has to recruit a lot of allies on the journey to restore balance to the world, and there's no better method to show that through a Magic set.

Exclusive Card Showcase

Following its initial set announcement, here are a look of one Allies plus one Shrine card from the upcoming ATLA release.

Teo: A Beloved Character

This character is a beloved minor character in ATLA, a boy from Earth Kingdom that lived at an Air Temple following his village was destroyed by a flood, which rendered him paraplegic.

Due to his dad's expertise with mechanics, he can glide through the skies with his glider, even challenges the Avatar to an aerial contest.

The card Teo, Spirited Glider showcases his fondness for the skies along with his tribe's reliance on flying machines through letting you loot each time a player attacks with a flying unit, while additionally strengthening your team with +1/+1 counters in the process.

The Temple Card: A Powerful Shrine

Regarding Teo's dwelling, it appears in the card Northern Air Temple, that drains an opponent's life upon entering play, depending on how many of Shrines you control.

It also removes one more point anytime another Shrine comes onto the battlefield.

It appears to be an impactful addition, considering the card's low mana cost and good enter the battlefield ability.

One major weakness of Shrine decks outside of EDH is that these cards are typically Legendary, however this card is great in combination with another Shrine, that drains all opponents at the beginning of your main phase.

The Welcome Crossover

At a time while Universes Beyond sets have been receiving a lot of criticism from fans, an iconic franchise such as Avatar could be exactly just what Magic: The Gathering needs.

Spoiler season is already here, and all cards will be launched November 21st.