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MTG enthusiasts frequently enjoy tribe-based decks — who has not constructed a zombie strategy once or twice? — while the upcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender Universes Beyond set revives two well-known mechanics which match seamlessly with the setting.

Returning Tribal Abilities

The first ability, known as "Ally," was debuted with a Zendikar set which provides bonuses each time more permanents bearing this subtype come onto the battlefield.

On the other hand, "Shrines" represents another enchantment-based type which originated in Kamigawa. While not exactly a creature tribal theme, Shrines also become strength when you owns additional of them in play.

A Return for Allies Mechanic

While Shrine cards have appeared occasionally across newer sets, the Ally subtype was far less common — until that changes in Avatar: The Last Airbender, where the feature is prominently used.

Aang has to recruit many companions during the quest to restore peace to the four nations, and it's no more fitting way to show that in a Magic expansion.

Revealed Cards Preview

Following its initial set announcement, below is a look of one Allies plus a Shrines card from the new Avatar: The Last Airbender set.

Teo: The Beloved Character

This character is a cherished supporting figure from Avatar: The Last Airbender, a young man of the Earth Tribe who resided at the Northern Air Temple after his home was destroyed by a flood, which rendered him paraplegic.

Due to his dad's skill with mechanics, he can soar through the skies with his glider, even challenges the Avatar in a flying contest.

This card Teo, Spirited Glider showcases his fondness of flying along with his tribe's reliance on gliders by letting you loot each time you attack using an airborne creature, and additionally strengthening your creatures via +1/+1 counters in the process.

The Temple Card: The Powerful Shrine

Regarding his dwelling, it appears as the card The Northern Air Temple, which drains your opponent's life when entering play, based on how many of Shrines you have.

The card furthermore drains one more life anytime another Shrine enters the battlefield.

This looks like a powerful addition, considering the card's low mana cost and good ETB ability.

One big weakness of Shrine-based decks outside of EDH is that these cards are always Legendary, but Northern Air Temple can be effective in combination alongside another Shrine, which drains every opponent at the beginning of your main phase.

A Welcome Crossover

Currently while Universes Beyond products are receiving significant hate from fans, an iconic series like Avatar: The Last Airbender could be exactly what MTG needs.

Spoiler season has begun, and all cards will be released November 21st.