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Magic: The Gathering fans often embrace tribal decks — who hasn't built an elf deck before? — while this new Avatar: The Last Airbender Universes Beyond release revives 2 well-known examples that fit seamlessly with its theme.

Returning Tribal Abilities

One initial ability, known as "Ally," first introduced with the Zendikar and provides boosts whenever more creatures with this type come onto play.

On the other hand, "Shrines" is an enchantment-based subtype that originated in Kamigawa. While not creature-based tribal theme, these enchantments also become power when a player owns more Shrines in play.

The Comeback of Allies Mechanic

Although Shrine cards have been shown up sporadically in newer sets, the Ally subtype has been much rarer — but this ends with ATLA, where the feature is heavily featured.

Aang has to recruit numerous companions on his quest to bring back balance to the four nations, and it's no better method to reflect this through an Magic: The Gathering set.

Exclusive Card Showcase

After the first card reveal, here is previews of an Ally and one Shrines card from the new ATLA release.

Teo: A Beloved Character

This character stands as a cherished supporting figure from Avatar: The Last Airbender, a boy from Earth Kingdom that resided at the Northern Air Temple following his home was ruined by a flood, an event that left him paraplegic.

Thanks to his dad's expertise in engineering, he can soar through the skies with his glider, even dares Aang to an aerial race.

The card Teo showcases his passion of flying along with his tribe's reliance on gliders by letting you draw and discard each time you attack using an airborne unit, and also boosting your creatures with counters in the process.

Northern Air Temple: A Strong Shrine Enchantment

Speaking of Teo's dwelling, it is represented in a card named Northern Air Temple, that drains an opponent's life total upon coming into play, based on the number of Shrines you control.

It furthermore removes one more point whenever another Shrine enters the battlefield.

This looks like a strong addition, given its low mana cost and good ETB effect.

A major weakness for Shrine decks in formats besides EDH are the fact that Shrines are always Legendary, however this card is great when paired with Sanctum of Stone Fangs, that deals damage to every opponent at the beginning of your turn.

The Timely Collaboration

Currently while crossover products have been garnering a lot of backlash by fans, a beloved franchise like Avatar can be precisely just what Magic: The Gathering needs.

Preview period is already here, with all cards will be released November 21st.