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MTG players frequently enjoy tribal decks — what player hasn't constructed a goblin strategy once or twice? — and this upcoming ATLA crossover set revives two well-known mechanics that match seamlessly to the setting.

Returning Tribe-Supporting Mechanics

One first mechanic, named "Allies," first introduced in the Zendikar which provides bonuses whenever additional creatures with this type enter the field.

Meanwhile, "Shrines" represents another enchantment-based type which first appeared in Kamigawa. While not creature-based tribal theme, Shrines likewise become strength as a player controls more Shrines in play.

A Comeback for Allies Mechanic

Although Shrines have been appeared sporadically across recent sets, the Ally subtype has been seldom seen — but that ends in Avatar: The Last Airbender, where this feature gets central.

The protagonist Aang has to assemble numerous companions on the journey to bring back peace across the four nations, so there's no better way to show that through an Magic expansion.

Revealed Card Preview

Following its first set reveal, below are previews at one Allies and one Shrine cards from the upcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender set.

Teo, Spirited Glider: The Fan-Favorite Character

This character stands as a beloved minor figure from ATLA, a boy from the Earth Tribe that resided at the Northern Air Temple following his home was destroyed by a flood, which rendered him unable to walk.

Because of his dad's expertise with mechanics, he can fly through the skies with a flying device, and dares Aang to a flying contest.

This card Teo reproduces his love of the skies and his tribe's use of flying machines through letting you draw and discard each time a player attacks with a flying unit, and also pumping your creatures via +1/+1 counters in the process.

The Temple Card: A Strong Shrine

Regarding Teo's dwelling, it is represented in the card The Northern Air Temple, that reduces an opponent's life when coming into the battlefield, based on the number Shrine cards you control.

The card also drains one more life anytime another Shrine comes onto the battlefield.

It looks like an impactful addition, considering its low mana cost and valuable ETB ability.

A major drawback for Shrine-based strategies in formats besides EDH is that these cards are always legendary permanents, but Northern Air Temple can be great in combination alongside another Shrine, that drains all opponents at the beginning of your main phase.

A Welcome Crossover

At a time when crossover sets are garnering a lot of criticism from the community, an iconic series such as Avatar can be precisely just what Magic: The Gathering needs.

Spoiler season has begun, and all cards set to be released on Nov. 21.