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Magic: The Gathering enthusiasts frequently embrace tribe-based tactics — what player has not assembled a zombie strategy at some point? — and the new ATLA Universes Beyond set brings back 2 well-known mechanics which fit seamlessly to its theme.

Returning Tribal Abilities

One first ability, named "Ally," first debuted with a Zendikar set and provides buffs whenever more permanents bearing the Ally subtype come onto the battlefield.

Meanwhile, "Shrine" is an enchantment subtype that originated in Kamigawa. While not a creature tribe, these enchantments likewise become strength as you has additional of them in play.

A Return of Allies Mechanic

While Shrines have appeared sporadically across newer releases, the Ally subtype has been seldom seen — but this changes with ATLA, where the mechanic gets heavily featured.

Aang must recruit many allies on his journey to restore balance across the world, so it's no better way to show that in a Magic set.

Exclusive Card Preview

Following the initial set announcement, here are a look at an Allies plus one Shrines cards in the new ATLA release.

Teo, Spirited Glider: A Beloved Character

Teo is a beloved minor figure from ATLA, a boy of Earth Kingdom that lived at an Air Temple following his home was destroyed in a disaster, which rendered him unable to walk.

Because of his father's skill in engineering, Teo is able to soar through the skies using his glider, and challenges the Avatar in an aerial contest.

This card Teo, Spirited Glider reproduces his fondness for the skies along with the Earth Tribe's reliance on flying machines through allowing the player loot whenever you attack using a flying unit, and additionally boosting your creatures with counters at the same time.

Northern Air Temple: The Strong Shrine

Speaking of his dwelling, this is represented in a card named Northern Air Temple, which reduces an opponent's life when coming into the battlefield, based on how many Shrine cards you control.

The card furthermore removes an additional life anytime another Shrine enters the battlefield.

It appears to be a powerful addition, considering the card's low mana cost plus valuable enter the battlefield ability.

A major drawback for Shrine-based strategies in formats besides Commander are the fact that these cards are typically Legendary, however this card is great in combination with another Shrine, that drains all opponents during the start of your turn.

A Welcome Collaboration

At a time when Universes Beyond sets have been receiving significant criticism by fans, a beloved franchise such as Avatar can be precisely what MTG requires.

Preview period has begun, and all cards will be launched on Nov. 21.