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MTG players consistently enjoy tribal decks — who has not constructed a goblin deck before? — and this forthcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender Universes Beyond set brings back two well-known mechanics which fit seamlessly with its setting.

Returning Tribal Mechanics

One initial ability, known as "Allies," first debuted in the Zendikar which grants bonuses each time more creatures bearing the Ally type come onto the field.

Alternatively, "Shrine" represents another enchantment-based type which originated with Kamigawa. While not exactly creature-based tribal theme, Shrines also gain abilities as you controls more Shrines in play.

The Return for the Ally Mechanic

Although Shrines have been appeared sporadically across recent sets, Allies mechanic was much rarer — until this changes in Avatar: The Last Airbender, where this feature is prominently used.

Aang must assemble numerous allies during his quest to bring back balance to the world, so it's no more fitting method to represent that through a Magic: The Gathering set.

Revealed Cards Showcase

After its first card reveal, below are previews of an Ally and a Shrines card in the upcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender release.

Teo, Spirited Glider: The Beloved Figure

This character is one cherished minor character from Avatar: The Last Airbender, a boy from the Earth Tribe who resided at an Air Temple following his village was destroyed in a flood, an event that rendered him paraplegic.

Due to his father's prowess in engineering, he can soar in the air using a flying device, and challenges Aang to an aerial race.

The card Teo showcases his love for the skies along with his tribe's use on gliders by allowing the player loot whenever you attack with an airborne creature, while also pumping your creatures with counters at the same time.

The Temple Card: A Powerful Shrine

Regarding Teo's dwelling, this is represented in the card Northern Air Temple, which reduces your opponent's life when entering play, based on the number Shrine cards you control.

It also removes an additional life whenever another Shrine enters the battlefield.

This looks like a powerful addition, given its cheap cost plus good ETB ability.

One big drawback of Shrine strategies in formats besides EDH is that Shrines are always Legendary, however this card can be effective when paired with Sanctum of Stone Fangs, which drains every opponent during the start of your main phase.

A Timely Crossover

Currently while Universes Beyond sets are garnering significant backlash from fans, an iconic series like Avatar could be exactly what Magic: The Gathering needs.

Preview period is already here, and all cards set to be launched on Nov. 21.