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Magic: The Gathering players frequently enjoy tribal decks — what player has not built a goblin deck before? — while the new ATLA Universes Beyond set revives two well-known examples that align perfectly to the theme.

Returning Tribal Mechanics

One initial ability, named "Allies," was debuted in the Zendikar which grants buffs whenever more creatures with this type come onto the field.

On the other hand, "Shrines" represents another enchantment subtype that first appeared in Kamigawa. While not a creature tribal theme, these enchantments also become abilities as you has additional of them in play.

The Comeback for Allies Ability

While Shrine cards have been shown up here and there across newer releases, the Ally subtype has been far less common — until that ends in Avatar: The Last Airbender, where the mechanic gets heavily featured.

The protagonist Aang has to gather numerous companions on the journey to bring back peace to the world, so it's no better way to represent this through an Magic: The Gathering expansion.

Exclusive Cards Preview

Following its first card announcement, here are previews at one Allies plus one Shrine card from the new Avatar: The Last Airbender release.

Teo, Spirited Glider: A Beloved Figure

This character stands as a beloved supporting character in Avatar: The Last Airbender, a boy from the Earth Tribe that lived in an Air Temple following his home was ruined by a flood, an event that rendered him unable to walk.

Because of his dad's prowess with mechanics, he is able to soar in the air using his glider, even challenges Aang to a flying contest.

This card Teo, Spirited Glider reproduces his love for the skies along with the Earth Tribe's reliance of flying machines by allowing you loot each time a player attacks using an airborne unit, while additionally strengthening your creatures with counters in the process.

The Temple Card: The Powerful Shrine

Regarding his home, it appears as the card Northern Air Temple, that drains your opponent's life total upon coming into play, depending on how many Shrine cards you have.

It also removes one more point whenever another Shrine comes onto the battlefield.

This appears to be an impactful addition, considering the card's cheap mana cost and good enter the battlefield ability.

A major drawback of Shrine decks in formats besides Commander are that these cards are always legendary permanents, but this card is great in combination with another Shrine, which deals damage to all opponents during the start of your turn.

A Welcome Crossover

Currently when crossover products have been garnering significant hate from the community, an iconic franchise like Avatar can be precisely what Magic: The Gathering needs.

Preview period is already here, and the full set will be launched November 21st.