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Magic: The Gathering players frequently enjoy tribe-based tactics — who hasn't assembled a goblin deck once or twice? — while this upcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender crossover set revives two beloved examples which fit seamlessly with the theme.

Reappearing Tribe-Supporting Abilities

One initial ability, named "Ally," first introduced with a Zendikar which gives bonuses whenever more permanents bearing the Ally type enter the field.

On the other hand, "Shrine" represents an enchantment subtype that first appeared in Kamigawa. While not a creature tribe, Shrines also gain abilities as you has additional of them in play.

The Comeback for the Ally Ability

Although Shrines have been shown up sporadically in newer releases, the Ally subtype was far less common — until this changes with Avatar: The Last Airbender, where the feature is central.

The protagonist Aang has to assemble numerous companions during his journey to restore balance across the four nations, and it's no more fitting way to show this in an Magic: The Gathering expansion.

Revealed Card Showcase

Following the initial set reveal, below is previews at an Ally and a Shrine cards from the upcoming ATLA release.

Teo, Spirited Glider: A Beloved Figure

This character is one beloved minor figure from Avatar: The Last Airbender, a young man from Earth Kingdom that lived in the Northern Air Temple following his home was destroyed in a flood, an event that left him paraplegic.

Because of his dad's skill with mechanics, he is able to glide in the air with his glider, even challenges the Avatar in an aerial race.

This card Teo, Spirited Glider showcases Teo's love for the skies and the Earth Tribe's reliance on flying machines by letting the player draw and discard each time you attack with an airborne unit, and additionally pumping your creatures with counters in the process.

The Temple Card: A Strong Shrine Enchantment

Speaking of Teo's home, this appears as the card Northern Air Temple, that drains an opponent's life upon entering the battlefield, depending on the number Shrine cards you have.

It also removes an additional point anytime another Shrine comes onto the field.

It appears to be a powerful card, considering the card's cheap mana cost plus valuable ETB ability.

One big weakness for Shrine-based strategies outside of Commander are the fact that Shrines are always Legendary, but this card is effective when paired with another Shrine, that drains all opponents during the start of your turn.

The Welcome Collaboration

At a time while Universes Beyond products have been receiving a lot of backlash by the community, an iconic franchise like Avatar: The Last Airbender can be exactly what Magic: The Gathering needs.

Preview period has begun, with all cards will be launched November 21st.