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MTG enthusiasts often enjoy tribe-based strategies — who has not constructed a zombie strategy once or twice? — and the forthcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender Universes Beyond release brings back 2 well-known examples which align seamlessly to the theme.

Returning Tribal Abilities

One first ability, called "Allies," was introduced with the Zendikar set which gives boosts whenever more creatures with this type come onto play.

On the other hand, "Shrines" represents an enchantment-based subtype that first appeared with Champions of Kamigawa. While not exactly creature-based tribal theme, Shrines also gain abilities when a player controls more Shrines on the battlefield.

A Comeback for the Ally Ability

Although Shrines have appeared occasionally across newer releases, Allies subtype was seldom seen — but that changes with ATLA, where this feature gets heavily featured.

The protagonist Aang must recruit numerous companions during the journey to restore balance to the four nations, so there's no better way to show this through an Magic: The Gathering expansion.

Exclusive Cards Preview

After the first card announcement, below are previews at one Ally plus a Shrines cards from the upcoming ATLA release.

Teo, Spirited Glider: A Beloved Character

Teo stands as a popular supporting character from ATLA, a boy of the Earth Tribe who resided at an Air Temple after his home was destroyed by a flood, which rendered him unable to walk.

Due to his father's skill in engineering, he is able to fly in the air using his glider, even dares the Avatar to an aerial contest.

This card Teo, Spirited Glider showcases Teo's fondness of the skies and the Earth Tribe's use of flying machines through letting you loot whenever a player attacks using an airborne creature, and additionally pumping your creatures via +1/+1 counters at the same time.

Northern Air Temple: The Strong Shrine

Speaking of Teo's dwelling, it is represented as a card named Northern Air Temple, which reduces your opponent's life total when entering the battlefield, depending on how many Shrine cards you have.

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

It looks like a strong addition, given its low mana cost and valuable enter the battlefield ability.

A big weakness of Shrine-based decks outside of Commander is the fact that these cards are typically legendary permanents, however this card is great when paired alongside another Shrine, which deals damage to all opponents during the start of your turn.

A Timely Collaboration

Currently when Universes Beyond sets are garnering significant criticism from fans, an iconic franchise such as Avatar: The Last Airbender could be exactly what MTG needs.

Preview period has begun, and the full set will be launched November 21st.