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MTG players often adopt tribal tactics — what player has not constructed a goblin deck at some point? — while the forthcoming ATLA Universes Beyond set brings back 2 well-known mechanics that match seamlessly with the theme.

Reappearing Tribal Mechanics

One first ability, named "Ally," was introduced with a Zendikar set which grants buffs whenever additional permanents with this subtype come onto the battlefield.

Meanwhile, "Shrine" represents another enchantment type that first appeared with Champions of Kamigawa. Although not exactly creature-based tribal theme, these enchantments also gain abilities when you controls additional Shrines in play.

A Comeback of the Ally Ability

While Shrines have appeared sporadically across newer releases, the Ally subtype has been far less common — until that ends with Avatar: The Last Airbender, where this feature gets central.

The protagonist Aang must gather numerous companions on the quest to restore peace to the four nations, so there's no better method to show that through an Magic set.

Revealed Cards Showcase

After the first card reveal, below is a look of one Allies plus one Shrine cards from the new ATLA set.

Teo: A Fan-Favorite Figure

This character is one cherished minor figure in ATLA, a boy of Earth Kingdom who resided in an Air Temple following his home was ruined in a disaster, which rendered him paraplegic.

Because of his father's skill in engineering, Teo is able to soar in the air with a flying device, and challenges Aang in a flying contest.

The card Teo represents his love for flying along with the Earth Tribe's reliance of flying machines through allowing the player loot whenever a player attacks with an airborne creature, while additionally pumping your creatures with counters at the same time.

Northern Air Temple: The Powerful Shrine Enchantment

Speaking of Teo's home, it is represented in a card named Northern Air Temple, which drains an opponent's life total upon entering play, based on the number Shrine cards you control.

The card also drains one more point anytime a Shrine comes onto the battlefield.

It appears to be a strong addition, given the card's cheap mana cost and good ETB effect.

A major drawback of Shrine decks outside of EDH are that these cards are typically Legendary, but this card is great in combination alongside Sanctum of Stone Fangs, which deals damage to all opponents at the beginning of your main phase.

A Timely Collaboration

At a time while crossover sets have been garnering significant criticism by fans, a beloved franchise such as Avatar: The Last Airbender could be precisely what Magic: The Gathering requires.

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