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Magic: The Gathering fans frequently embrace tribe-based strategies — what player has not constructed a zombie deck before? — and the forthcoming ATLA crossover release brings back two popular mechanics that align perfectly to the setting.

Reappearing Tribal Abilities

The first mechanic, named "Ally," first introduced with the Zendikar set which gives bonuses whenever additional permanents bearing this type enter play.

Alternatively, "Shrine" is another enchantment type that first appeared with Champions of Kamigawa. While not exactly creature-based tribal theme, Shrines likewise become power as you owns additional of them on the battlefield.

A Comeback for the Ally Ability

While Shrine cards have been shown up occasionally across newer releases, the Ally subtype has been much rarer — but this changes in Avatar: The Last Airbender, in which this mechanic is heavily featured.

The protagonist Aang must gather numerous allies during his journey to restore balance across the world, so it's no more fitting method to show that through an Magic: The Gathering expansion.

Revealed Card Showcase

Following its first set announcement, below are previews of an Ally and a Shrines card from the new ATLA release.

Teo: A Fan-Favorite Figure

Teo is a cherished supporting figure in ATLA, a young man from the Earth Tribe who lived in the Northern Air Temple after his village was destroyed in a flood, an event that rendered him paraplegic.

Thanks to his dad's prowess with mechanics, Teo is able to soar in the air using his glider, even dares Aang to an aerial contest.

The card Teo, Spirited Glider showcases his fondness for the skies along with his tribe's use on flying machines through letting the player loot whenever a player attacks using a flying creature, while additionally strengthening your creatures with counters at the same time.

Northern Air Temple: The Strong Shrine

Regarding Teo's dwelling, this appears as the card The Northern Air Temple, that drains your opponent's life total upon entering play, based on the number of Shrines you have.

It furthermore drains one more life whenever another Shrine enters the field.

It appears to be a strong addition, given its low cost plus valuable ETB ability.

One big weakness of Shrine decks in formats besides EDH is the fact that these cards are typically Legendary, however this card can be great in combination with Sanctum of Stone Fangs, which deals damage to all opponents during the start of your turn.

The Welcome Crossover

Currently while crossover products are garnering a lot of criticism by fans, an iconic franchise like Avatar: The Last Airbender could be precisely what MTG requires.

Preview period has begun, with the full set set to be launched November 21st.