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MTG fans frequently enjoy tribal decks — what player has not built a goblin deck at some point? — and the new Avatar: The Last Airbender Universes Beyond release revives 2 beloved mechanics which fit perfectly with its flavor.

Returning Tribe-Supporting Abilities

The initial mechanic, known as "Ally," was introduced in the Zendikar which grants buffs each time more permanents with this subtype come onto play.

Alternatively, "Shrine" represents another enchantment-based subtype which originated in Champions of Kamigawa. While not a creature tribal theme, Shrines likewise become strength as you controls additional of them on the battlefield.

A Return for the Ally Mechanic

Although Shrines have appeared sporadically across recent sets, the Ally subtype was much rarer — but that changes in Avatar: The Last Airbender, where the feature is heavily featured.

The protagonist Aang has to recruit many allies during his journey to restore peace across the world, and it's no better method to reflect that through a Magic: The Gathering expansion.

Exclusive Card Showcase

Following the initial set reveal, below are previews at one Ally and a Shrines card in the new ATLA set.

Teo: A Fan-Favorite Figure

Teo stands as one cherished supporting character in Avatar: The Last Airbender, a young man of Earth Kingdom that lived in an Air Temple following his home was ruined in a flood, which left him unable to walk.

Thanks to his father's skill in engineering, Teo is able to soar in the air using his glider, and dares Aang to a flying contest.

The card Teo reproduces his love for the skies along with his tribe's use on gliders by letting you loot whenever you attack using an airborne unit, while additionally pumping your team via +1/+1 counters at the same time.

The Temple Card: A Powerful Shrine

Regarding Teo's home, this is represented in the card Northern Air Temple, that drains an opponent's life total when coming into play, based on how many Shrine cards you have.

The card also drains an additional life anytime a Shrine enters the battlefield.

It appears to be a strong addition, given its low mana cost and valuable enter the battlefield ability.

A major weakness of Shrine strategies in formats besides Commander is that Shrines are typically legendary permanents, but Northern Air Temple can be effective when paired alongside Sanctum of Stone Fangs, which deals damage to all opponents during the start of your turn.

The Timely Crossover

Currently when Universes Beyond products have been receiving a lot of criticism from fans, a beloved franchise such as Avatar can be exactly what MTG requires.

Preview period has begun, with the full set set to be launched November 21st.