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MTG players frequently embrace tribal tactics — who hasn't constructed a goblin strategy once or twice? — and the upcoming ATLA Universes Beyond set is reintroducing two popular examples that match seamlessly to the flavor.

Reappearing Tribe-Supporting Abilities

One initial ability, named "Ally," first debuted in a Zendikar which grants boosts whenever additional permanents with this subtype come onto play.

Alternatively, "Shrine" represents another enchantment subtype that first appeared with Kamigawa. Although not exactly creature-based tribal theme, Shrines also gain strength as you controls additional Shrines in play.

A Comeback of the Ally Ability

Although Shrines have appeared sporadically in recent sets, the Ally subtype has been much rarer — but that changes in Avatar: The Last Airbender, in which this feature is prominently used.

Aang must gather many companions on the journey to restore balance across the four nations, and there's no more fitting method to show that through a Magic set.

Exclusive Cards Preview

Following the initial card announcement, here is previews at one Allies plus a Shrines cards from the new ATLA release.

Teo, Spirited Glider: A Fan-Favorite Character

Teo is one cherished supporting figure in Avatar: The Last Airbender, a young man of the Earth Tribe that resided at an Air Temple after his village was destroyed in a disaster, an event that left him unable to walk.

Thanks to his father's skill in engineering, he can glide in the air with his glider, and challenges the Avatar in an aerial contest.

The card Teo showcases Teo's love of flying along with his tribe's reliance of gliders by allowing you draw and discard whenever a player attacks using a flying unit, while additionally pumping your creatures with counters in the process.

Northern Air Temple: A Powerful Shrine Enchantment

Regarding Teo's dwelling, this is represented as the card The Northern Air Temple, that reduces your opponent's life upon coming into play, based on how many of Shrines you have.

The card furthermore drains an additional life anytime a Shrine comes onto the battlefield.

It appears to be a strong addition, given the card's low cost plus good ETB effect.

A big weakness of Shrine decks in formats besides Commander is that these cards are typically Legendary, however Northern Air Temple is effective when paired with Sanctum of Stone Fangs, which drains every opponent at the beginning of your turn.

The Welcome Collaboration

Currently while Universes Beyond products have been receiving significant criticism from the community, a beloved franchise like Avatar: The Last Airbender can be precisely what Magic: The Gathering needs.

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