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Magic: The Gathering players often embrace tribal strategies — who has not built a zombie strategy before? — while this forthcoming ATLA crossover set revives 2 well-known examples which match perfectly with the theme.

Returning Tribal Abilities

The first mechanic, called "Ally," first debuted in the Zendikar set and provides buffs each time more creatures bearing this subtype enter the field.

On the other hand, "Shrine" represents another enchantment subtype which originated in Kamigawa. While not creature-based tribal theme, Shrines likewise become strength when a player controls more Shrines on the battlefield.

The Return of Allies Ability

Although Shrine cards have been appeared sporadically in newer sets, the Ally subtype was much rarer — until this ends with ATLA, where this mechanic is heavily featured.

The protagonist Aang must assemble a lot of companions during the quest to bring back peace to the four nations, and it's no better way to represent this through an Magic: The Gathering set.

Revealed Cards Preview

After the first card reveal, here is previews of an Allies and one Shrine cards in the new ATLA set.

Teo: The Beloved Figure

This character is a cherished minor character in ATLA, a young man from the Earth Tribe that lived in the Northern Air Temple following his home was destroyed by a flood, which left him paraplegic.

Due to his dad's skill in mechanics, Teo is able to fly through the skies with his glider, and dares Aang to an aerial contest.

This card Teo, Spirited Glider showcases his fondness for flying and his tribe's reliance of flying machines through allowing the player loot each time a player attacks using an airborne creature, and additionally boosting your team with +1/+1 counters at the same time.

The Temple Card: A Powerful Shrine

Speaking of Teo's dwelling, this is represented as the card Northern Air Temple, which drains your opponent's life total when coming into play, based on the number Shrine cards you have.

The card also removes one more life whenever another Shrine comes onto the field.

It appears to be a strong addition, given the card's cheap cost and valuable enter the battlefield ability.

A major weakness of Shrine-based decks in formats besides Commander is that Shrines are always legendary permanents, however this card is effective in combination alongside Sanctum of Stone Fangs, that deals damage to every opponent at the beginning of your main phase.

The Timely Collaboration

At a time when Universes Beyond products have been garnering significant backlash from the community, a beloved series such as Avatar could be exactly what MTG needs.

Preview period has begun, with the full set set to be launched on Nov. 21.