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MTG enthusiasts often adopt tribal tactics — what player has not built an elf deck once or twice? — and this upcoming ATLA Universes Beyond set brings back 2 beloved mechanics that align perfectly with its theme.

Returning Tribal Mechanics

The initial mechanic, named "Ally," first introduced with the Zendikar set and provides boosts each time more permanents bearing the Ally type come onto play.

Alternatively, "Shrines" is another enchantment-based type that originated with Champions of Kamigawa. While not exactly creature-based tribe, Shrines likewise gain abilities when you has additional of them in play.

A Comeback for Allies Mechanic

Although Shrines have been shown up here and there in newer releases, the Ally subtype was much rarer — until this ends in ATLA, where this feature gets heavily featured.

The protagonist Aang has to recruit numerous friends during the quest to restore balance to the four nations, and it's no better method to show that in a Magic: The Gathering set.

Exclusive Cards Showcase

Following its first set reveal, below are a look at an Allies and a Shrine cards from the new Avatar: The Last Airbender release.

Teo, Spirited Glider: The Beloved Figure

Teo stands as one cherished supporting character in ATLA, a boy of the Earth Tribe who lived at the Northern Air Temple following his village was destroyed by a flood, which left him paraplegic.

Due to his dad's prowess with mechanics, Teo is able to fly in the air with a flying device, even challenges Aang to a flying race.

The card Teo, Spirited Glider showcases Teo's love for flying and his tribe's use on gliders by allowing you loot whenever you attack with a flying creature, while also boosting your team with counters in the process.

The Temple Card: The Strong Shrine

Speaking of Teo's dwelling, this appears in a card named The Northern Air Temple, which reduces an opponent's life total when entering play, depending on how many Shrine cards you have.

The card furthermore drains one more point whenever another Shrine comes onto the field.

It appears to be an impactful addition, considering the card's low mana cost and good ETB effect.

A major drawback for Shrine-based strategies outside of Commander is the fact that these cards are always legendary permanents, but Northern Air Temple is effective when paired alongside Sanctum of Stone Fangs, which drains every opponent at the beginning of your turn.

The Timely Crossover

At a time while crossover products have been receiving a lot of backlash from the community, a beloved series such as Avatar can be exactly just what Magic: The Gathering needs.

Preview period has begun, and all cards will be released November 21st.