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MTG players frequently embrace tribal tactics — who hasn't built a zombie strategy at some point? — and the forthcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender Universes Beyond release brings back two popular mechanics that fit perfectly to the flavor.

Returning Tribal Abilities

The initial mechanic, known as "Ally," was introduced with the Zendikar set which gives buffs whenever additional permanents with the Ally type enter play.

On the other hand, "Shrines" represents an enchantment type that first appeared in Kamigawa. Although not exactly creature-based tribe, these enchantments likewise gain abilities when you has additional Shrines in play.

A Comeback of the Ally Ability

While Shrine cards have been appeared occasionally in newer releases, Allies mechanic was much rarer — but this changes with Avatar: The Last Airbender, where the mechanic is heavily featured.

The protagonist Aang has to recruit numerous friends on his journey to bring back peace to the four nations, so it's no better method to show this in a Magic expansion.

Exclusive Card Preview

Following the initial set announcement, below is a look at one Allies plus one Shrine cards from the new Avatar: The Last Airbender release.

Teo, Spirited Glider: The Fan-Favorite Figure

Teo is a beloved supporting character in Avatar: The Last Airbender, a boy from the Earth Tribe that lived in an Air Temple following his home was destroyed in a flood, an event that left him paraplegic.

Because of his dad's prowess in engineering, he can soar through the skies with his glider, even dares Aang in a flying race.

The card Teo, Spirited Glider reproduces Teo's love for flying along with the Earth Tribe's use on gliders by allowing the player draw and discard whenever a player attacks with a flying unit, and additionally pumping your creatures via counters at the same time.

The Temple Card: A Strong Shrine Enchantment

Speaking of his dwelling, this appears in a card named The Northern Air Temple, that reduces an opponent's life total upon entering play, based on the number Shrine cards you have.

It furthermore drains one more life whenever another Shrine comes onto the battlefield.

It looks like an impactful addition, given the card's cheap cost and valuable enter the battlefield effect.

One major drawback for Shrine decks outside of EDH are the fact that these cards are typically legendary permanents, but Northern Air Temple is great when paired alongside Sanctum of Stone Fangs, that deals damage to all opponents at the beginning of your turn.

The Timely Crossover

Currently while Universes Beyond products have been receiving significant hate by the community, a beloved series such as Avatar: The Last Airbender can be exactly just what Magic: The Gathering needs.

Preview period has begun, and the full set will be launched November 21st.