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MTG enthusiasts consistently enjoy tribe-based decks — what player hasn't constructed a goblin deck at some point? — and the upcoming ATLA Universes Beyond set brings back 2 well-known examples which align seamlessly with the theme.

Reappearing Tribal Abilities

One initial mechanic, named "Allies," first introduced with the Zendikar set and gives boosts whenever more permanents bearing this type come onto the battlefield.

On the other hand, "Shrine" represents an enchantment-based subtype which originated in Kamigawa. Although not creature-based tribal theme, these enchantments also gain strength as you has additional Shrines on the battlefield.

A Return for the Ally Mechanic

While Shrine cards have shown up occasionally across recent sets, Allies mechanic was much rarer — until this changes in Avatar: The Last Airbender, where this mechanic is heavily featured.

The protagonist Aang must recruit many friends on his quest to restore balance to the world, so it's no better way to show that through a Magic set.

Exclusive Cards Showcase

Following the first set reveal, here is a look at one Allies plus a Shrine card in the upcoming ATLA set.

Teo, Spirited Glider: A Beloved Character

Teo stands as a popular supporting figure from Avatar: The Last Airbender, a young man from Earth Kingdom that resided at an Air Temple after his village was ruined in a disaster, an event that left him paraplegic.

Because of his dad's prowess in engineering, Teo can soar through the skies with a flying device, even dares the Avatar in an aerial race.

This card Teo, Spirited Glider reproduces Teo's passion for flying along with the Earth Tribe's use on gliders through letting the player loot whenever you attack using a flying unit, and additionally pumping your team via +1/+1 counters at the same time.

Northern Air Temple: A Powerful Shrine Enchantment

Regarding Teo's home, this appears in the card The Northern Air Temple, that drains your opponent's life upon entering the battlefield, depending on how many Shrine cards you control.

The card also removes an additional point anytime a Shrine enters the battlefield.

It appears to be a powerful addition, considering the card's cheap mana cost and valuable enter the battlefield effect.

A major weakness for Shrine strategies in formats besides EDH is that these cards are typically legendary permanents, however Northern Air Temple can be great when paired alongside another Shrine, that drains all opponents at the beginning of your turn.

A Timely Crossover

Currently when crossover sets have been garnering a lot of criticism by the community, an iconic franchise like Avatar could be exactly just what Magic: The Gathering requires.

Spoiler season is already here, and the full set set to be launched November 21st.