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MTG players often embrace tribe-based strategies — what player has not constructed a zombie deck once or twice? — while the upcoming ATLA Universes Beyond set is reintroducing two beloved mechanics which match perfectly to the setting.

Returning Tribal Mechanics

The initial mechanic, known as "Ally," was debuted in the Zendikar set and provides buffs each time more permanents bearing this type come onto the field.

Alternatively, "Shrines" represents another enchantment subtype that first appeared in Champions of Kamigawa. While not creature-based tribe, Shrines also become strength when a player has more Shrines on the battlefield.

The Comeback of the Ally Mechanic

While Shrines have been shown up here and there in newer sets, the Ally subtype was seldom seen — until this changes with Avatar: The Last Airbender, in which the feature is heavily featured.

The protagonist Aang must assemble numerous allies during the quest to bring back balance across the world, and it's no more fitting way to represent that through an Magic: The Gathering set.

Revealed Cards Showcase

After its initial set announcement, below are a look at one Allies and a Shrine cards in the upcoming ATLA release.

Teo: A Beloved Character

This character is a popular supporting figure in ATLA, a boy of the Earth Tribe that resided at the Northern Air Temple after his village was destroyed in a flood, an event that rendered him unable to walk.

Due to his dad's prowess with engineering, Teo can soar through the skies using his glider, and challenges the Avatar in an aerial contest.

This card Teo showcases his love of the skies along with his tribe's reliance of flying machines by allowing the player loot each time a player attacks using a flying creature, while also pumping your creatures with counters at the same time.

The Temple Card: A Strong Shrine

Speaking of his home, this is represented as a card named The Northern Air Temple, which reduces an opponent's life upon entering play, depending on how many of Shrines you have.

It also drains an additional point whenever a Shrine comes onto the battlefield.

This looks like an impactful addition, given the card's cheap cost plus good enter the battlefield ability.

One big weakness for Shrine-based decks outside of EDH is that Shrines are typically legendary permanents, but Northern Air Temple is great when paired with another Shrine, that deals damage to every opponent at the beginning of your turn.

A Timely Collaboration

At a time when crossover sets have been garnering significant criticism by the community, a beloved franchise such as Avatar: The Last Airbender could be exactly just what MTG needs.

Spoiler season is already here, and all cards set to be launched on Nov. 21.