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Magic: The Gathering fans frequently embrace tribe-based tactics — what player hasn't constructed a goblin deck once or twice? — and this forthcoming ATLA Universes Beyond release brings back two well-known mechanics that align perfectly with its theme.

Returning Tribal Abilities

The initial ability, named "Ally," first introduced in a Zendikar which grants bonuses whenever more creatures bearing the Ally subtype come onto the battlefield.

Meanwhile, "Shrines" is another enchantment-based type that first appeared in Kamigawa. Although not exactly a creature tribal theme, Shrines also become power when a player controls more of them on the battlefield.

The Return of Allies Ability

Although Shrine cards have shown up occasionally in newer releases, Allies subtype has been much rarer — until that changes in Avatar: The Last Airbender, where the feature is prominently used.

Aang must assemble numerous companions during his quest to restore peace across the world, so it's no better way to show this through a Magic: The Gathering set.

Revealed Cards Showcase

Following the first set reveal, below are previews of one Allies plus one Shrine cards in the upcoming ATLA set.

Teo, Spirited Glider: A Fan-Favorite Character

Teo is one popular supporting character in Avatar: The Last Airbender, a young man from the Earth Tribe who resided in an Air Temple following his home was ruined by a flood, which left him paraplegic.

Thanks to his father's expertise with mechanics, Teo is able to soar through the skies using his glider, and challenges Aang in a flying race.

The card Teo, Spirited Glider represents Teo's love of flying and the Earth Tribe's use of flying machines by allowing the player draw and discard whenever a player attacks with an airborne creature, and additionally strengthening your creatures via +1/+1 counters at the same time.

Northern Air Temple: The Strong Shrine Enchantment

Speaking of Teo's dwelling, it is represented in the card Northern Air Temple, which reduces an opponent's life total when entering the battlefield, depending on how many of Shrines you have.

The card also removes one more point whenever another Shrine comes onto the battlefield.

It appears to be a strong addition, considering the card's low cost plus good enter the battlefield effect.

A major weakness of Shrine strategies outside of EDH is the fact that Shrines are always legendary permanents, however Northern Air Temple is effective when paired with Sanctum of Stone Fangs, which drains every opponent during the start of your main phase.

The Timely Crossover

At a time when Universes Beyond products are garnering a lot of backlash from fans, a beloved series like Avatar: The Last Airbender can be exactly just what MTG requires.

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