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MTG enthusiasts consistently embrace tribe-based decks — who has not built a goblin deck once or twice? — and this forthcoming ATLA Universes Beyond set brings back two popular examples which align perfectly to the setting.

Returning Tribal Abilities

The initial mechanic, called "Allies," first debuted in a Zendikar which grants bonuses each time more permanents bearing this type enter the field.

On the other hand, "Shrines" represents an enchantment type that originated in Kamigawa. Although not exactly creature-based tribal theme, Shrines also gain abilities when you owns more Shrines on the battlefield.

A Return of Allies Ability

While Shrine cards have appeared occasionally in newer releases, Allies mechanic was far less common — until this ends with Avatar: The Last Airbender, in which this feature is prominently used.

Aang has to recruit numerous allies during the journey to bring back peace across the four nations, and it's no more fitting way to reflect that through a Magic expansion.

Revealed Cards Preview

After its initial set announcement, here are previews of an Allies plus a Shrine cards in the upcoming ATLA set.

Teo, Spirited Glider: A Beloved Figure

This character stands as a cherished supporting character in Avatar: The Last Airbender, a young man of the Earth Tribe that lived in the Northern Air Temple following his home was ruined in a disaster, which rendered him paraplegic.

Because of his dad's prowess with mechanics, he can soar in the air using his glider, even dares the Avatar in an aerial race.

The card Teo reproduces Teo's fondness of the skies along with the Earth Tribe's reliance on gliders through letting the player loot each time a player attacks using a flying creature, and also strengthening your creatures via +1/+1 counters in the process.

The Temple Card: A Powerful Shrine

Speaking of his dwelling, this is represented in the card Northern Air Temple, which reduces your opponent's life total when entering play, based on how many Shrine cards you control.

It furthermore removes an additional point whenever another Shrine enters the battlefield.

It looks like an impactful addition, considering the card's cheap cost plus valuable ETB ability.

A major drawback for Shrine strategies in formats besides Commander is the fact that Shrines are always Legendary, however Northern Air Temple can be great in combination with another Shrine, that drains all opponents at the beginning of your main phase.

A Welcome Crossover

At a time while crossover products have been garnering significant backlash from fans, a beloved franchise like Avatar: The Last Airbender can be exactly what MTG requires.

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