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Magic: The Gathering players consistently adopt tribe-based strategies — what player has not assembled an elf strategy before? — while the upcoming ATLA Universes Beyond set revives two beloved mechanics that align seamlessly to the theme.

Returning Tribe-Supporting Abilities

The first ability, named "Ally," was debuted with a Zendikar set which grants buffs whenever more permanents with the Ally type come onto the field.

On the other hand, "Shrine" is another enchantment type which first appeared in Champions of Kamigawa. Although not creature-based tribal theme, these enchantments likewise gain strength as you has more Shrines on the battlefield.

A Comeback for Allies Ability

Although Shrine cards have been shown up sporadically across recent releases, the Ally subtype was much rarer — but that ends in Avatar: The Last Airbender, where the mechanic is prominently used.

Aang has to gather many companions during his journey to restore peace across the four nations, and there's no more fitting method to represent this in a Magic: The Gathering expansion.

Exclusive Cards Preview

After its first card announcement, below is a look at an Ally and one Shrines card from the upcoming ATLA set.

Teo: A Fan-Favorite Character

Teo stands as a beloved supporting character from ATLA, a young man from Earth Kingdom who resided in the Northern Air Temple following his home was destroyed in a disaster, an event that rendered him unable to walk.

Because of his father's expertise in mechanics, he is able to glide in the air with a flying device, and dares the Avatar to a flying contest.

This card Teo, Spirited Glider reproduces his love of flying along with the Earth Tribe's reliance on gliders through allowing you draw and discard each time you attack with an airborne creature, while also pumping your team with +1/+1 counters in the process.

The Temple Card: The Strong Shrine

Regarding Teo's dwelling, it appears in the card Northern Air Temple, that drains your opponent's life when coming into play, based on how many Shrine cards you control.

It furthermore removes one more point whenever a Shrine enters the field.

This looks like a strong addition, given its low cost plus good ETB ability.

One major drawback for Shrine-based strategies outside of EDH is the fact that these cards are typically Legendary, but Northern Air Temple is great in combination alongside Sanctum of Stone Fangs, which drains every opponent at the beginning of your turn.

A Timely Crossover

At a time while crossover sets are receiving a lot of criticism by fans, an iconic franchise like Avatar: The Last Airbender can be exactly just what MTG needs.

Spoiler season is already here, with all cards set to be launched on Nov. 21.