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MTG enthusiasts frequently enjoy tribe-based decks — what player hasn't built an elf deck before? — and this upcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender crossover release brings back 2 well-known examples that align perfectly with its flavor.

Returning Tribal Abilities

One first mechanic, called "Allies," first debuted with the Zendikar set and grants bonuses whenever more permanents bearing the Ally subtype enter the battlefield.

On the other hand, "Shrine" represents another enchantment-based subtype which originated in Kamigawa. While not exactly creature-based tribal theme, these enchantments also gain power as you controls more Shrines on the battlefield.

A Comeback for Allies Mechanic

Although Shrines have appeared here and there in newer releases, Allies mechanic was seldom seen — until this changes in Avatar: The Last Airbender, in which this feature is prominently used.

Aang has to gather many allies on his journey to bring back balance to the four nations, so it's no more fitting way to show that in a Magic: The Gathering expansion.

Exclusive Card Showcase

Following the initial set announcement, below are a look of one Ally and a Shrines cards from the new ATLA set.

Teo: A Beloved Character

This character stands as one popular supporting figure from Avatar: The Last Airbender, a boy from the Earth Tribe who resided at the Northern Air Temple following his village was destroyed by a flood, which left him paraplegic.

Thanks to his dad's skill with mechanics, he is able to fly in the air with his glider, even challenges the Avatar to a flying race.

This card Teo represents Teo's fondness of flying along with his tribe's use of flying machines by letting you draw and discard whenever a player attacks using an airborne creature, and also strengthening your creatures via +1/+1 counters in the process.

The Temple Card: A Powerful Shrine

Regarding his home, this is represented in the card Northern Air Temple, that reduces an opponent's life total when coming into the battlefield, depending on how many Shrine cards you control.

The card also drains an additional life anytime another Shrine enters the battlefield.

This appears to be a powerful addition, given its low cost and good ETB ability.

One big drawback of Shrine-based strategies outside of Commander is the fact that Shrines are always legendary permanents, however this card is great in combination alongside another Shrine, that drains every opponent at the beginning of your main phase.

The Welcome Collaboration

Currently while crossover sets have been receiving significant criticism from the community, an iconic series such as Avatar: The Last Airbender can be exactly just what MTG needs.

Preview period is already here, with the full set will be launched on Nov. 21.