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MTG fans often enjoy tribal decks — what player has not assembled an elf deck once or twice? — while the new ATLA Universes Beyond release revives 2 well-known examples which align seamlessly to the flavor.

Returning Tribe-Supporting Abilities

One initial ability, known as "Ally," first introduced in a Zendikar set which provides buffs each time additional creatures bearing the Ally subtype come onto the field.

Alternatively, "Shrines" represents another enchantment-based subtype that originated in Kamigawa. While not a creature tribe, Shrines also become power when you has more of them on the battlefield.

A Comeback of the Ally Ability

While Shrine cards have been appeared here and there across recent releases, the Ally mechanic was seldom seen — until this changes with Avatar: The Last Airbender, where this feature gets central.

Aang has to assemble a lot of allies during his quest to restore balance across the world, so it's no better method to represent this in an Magic: The Gathering expansion.

Exclusive Cards Preview

Following the initial set announcement, below are a look at one Allies and one Shrine cards from the upcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender set.

Teo: The Fan-Favorite Character

Teo is one popular supporting figure from ATLA, a boy of Earth Kingdom who resided in an Air Temple following his home was ruined by a flood, an event that rendered him paraplegic.

Because of his dad's skill with mechanics, he is able to fly through the skies with a flying device, even dares Aang in an aerial contest.

The card Teo, Spirited Glider represents his love of flying and his tribe's use on flying machines through letting the player loot each time a player attacks with an airborne unit, and additionally strengthening your creatures via counters at the same time.

Northern Air Temple: A Strong Shrine Enchantment

Speaking of Teo's dwelling, it is represented in the card The Northern Air Temple, that reduces an opponent's life total when coming into the battlefield, based on how many Shrine cards you control.

The card also drains an additional life whenever a Shrine enters the field.

This appears to be a strong addition, considering its cheap cost plus good enter the battlefield ability.

A major drawback for Shrine-based decks in formats besides Commander is that these cards are always legendary permanents, but this card can be great in combination alongside another Shrine, that drains all opponents during the start of your turn.

A Timely Collaboration

At a time when crossover products have been garnering significant criticism from the community, a beloved series like Avatar: The Last Airbender can be exactly what MTG needs.

Preview period is already here, with all cards set to be launched on Nov. 21.