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MTG enthusiasts frequently embrace tribal strategies — what player has not constructed a goblin deck at some point? — while this forthcoming ATLA crossover release brings back 2 beloved mechanics that align perfectly with its setting.

Returning Tribe-Supporting Mechanics

The initial ability, named "Ally," was debuted with a Zendikar and gives bonuses each time additional permanents bearing this type enter the battlefield.

Meanwhile, "Shrines" represents an enchantment subtype that originated with Champions of Kamigawa. Although not a creature tribe, Shrines also become strength as you has more Shrines on the battlefield.

The Return of the Ally Ability

While Shrine cards have shown up sporadically across newer sets, the Ally mechanic was far less common — until that changes with ATLA, where this mechanic is prominently used.

Aang must assemble numerous friends during the quest to restore peace to the four nations, so there's no more fitting method to reflect that through a Magic: The Gathering expansion.

Exclusive Cards Showcase

Following its initial card announcement, below are previews of an Allies and a Shrines cards in the upcoming ATLA release.

Teo: The Fan-Favorite Character

This character stands as a popular supporting figure from Avatar: The Last Airbender, a young man of the Earth Tribe who resided at the Northern Air Temple after his home was ruined by a disaster, an event that rendered him unable to walk.

Due to his father's skill with engineering, he is able to soar through the skies using his glider, and dares Aang to an aerial race.

This card Teo, Spirited Glider represents his fondness for the skies along with the Earth Tribe's use of gliders through allowing you draw and discard each time you attack with an airborne creature, while additionally boosting your team via counters in the process.

Northern Air Temple: A Strong Shrine

Regarding Teo's home, this is represented in the card Northern Air Temple, which drains an opponent's life when entering play, depending on the number of Shrines you control.

The card also drains an additional point whenever a Shrine enters the battlefield.

This appears to be a strong card, given the card's cheap mana cost plus good ETB ability.

One big drawback of Shrine strategies in formats besides Commander is that these cards are typically legendary permanents, but Northern Air Temple can be effective when paired with another Shrine, that deals damage to all opponents at the beginning of your main phase.

A Welcome Collaboration

Currently while crossover sets have been receiving a lot of hate by the community, an iconic franchise like Avatar: The Last Airbender can be precisely what MTG needs.

Preview period is already here, with the full set will be launched November 21st.