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MTG players often embrace tribe-based decks — what player has not assembled an elf deck once or twice? — while this upcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender Universes Beyond set revives two popular examples which match seamlessly with the setting.

Returning Tribal Abilities

One first ability, named "Allies," first debuted with a Zendikar set and grants bonuses each time more permanents bearing this subtype enter play.

On the other hand, "Shrines" is another enchantment subtype that first appeared in Kamigawa. Although not a creature tribal theme, these enchantments also become power as you has more of them in play.

The Comeback of the Ally Ability

While Shrines have been appeared here and there in newer releases, Allies mechanic was far less common — until this ends with Avatar: The Last Airbender, in which this mechanic gets heavily featured.

The protagonist Aang must assemble many companions during his quest to bring back peace to the world, so it's no more fitting way to reflect this in an Magic: The Gathering expansion.

Revealed Cards Showcase

Following its first card reveal, below is previews at one Allies and one Shrine cards from the new ATLA release.

Teo, Spirited Glider: The Fan-Favorite Character

Teo stands as a popular minor character in ATLA, a young man of Earth Kingdom who lived in the Northern Air Temple after his home was destroyed by a flood, which rendered him unable to walk.

Because of his dad's prowess in engineering, he can fly in the air with a flying device, even challenges the Avatar to a flying contest.

This card Teo reproduces Teo's fondness for flying along with the Earth Tribe's reliance on gliders through allowing you loot whenever a player attacks using an airborne unit, while additionally pumping your creatures via +1/+1 counters at the same time.

The Temple Card: The Strong Shrine

Regarding his dwelling, it is represented as a card named The Northern Air Temple, that drains an opponent's life total upon coming into play, depending on how many Shrine cards you control.

The card furthermore removes one more life whenever a Shrine comes onto the field.

This appears to be a strong card, given its cheap cost and good ETB ability.

A major weakness for Shrine decks outside of Commander is the fact that Shrines are always legendary permanents, but this card can be effective when paired alongside another Shrine, which deals damage to every opponent during the start of your main phase.

A Timely Crossover

At a time when crossover products have been receiving significant hate from the community, an iconic series like Avatar: The Last Airbender could be exactly just what MTG needs.

Preview period has begun, with all cards set to be launched on Nov. 21.