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Magic: The Gathering enthusiasts consistently enjoy tribal strategies — what player has not assembled a zombie deck at some point? — and this new Avatar: The Last Airbender crossover release brings back two popular mechanics which align perfectly with the setting.

Returning Tribal Abilities

The first ability, called "Allies," first debuted with the Zendikar and provides buffs each time more permanents bearing this type enter the battlefield.

On the other hand, "Shrine" represents another enchantment-based subtype which originated with Champions of Kamigawa. While not exactly a creature tribal theme, Shrines likewise become power as you has additional of them on the battlefield.

The Return for Allies Mechanic

While Shrine cards have been shown up occasionally in newer releases, the Ally mechanic was much rarer — but that changes in ATLA, in which this mechanic is prominently used.

Aang has to assemble a lot of friends during the quest to bring back peace to the four nations, and there's no better method to represent this in a Magic: The Gathering expansion.

Exclusive Cards Showcase

Following the first set announcement, here is previews of one Allies plus a Shrine card from the new Avatar: The Last Airbender release.

Teo: A Beloved Figure

This character is one beloved supporting character in ATLA, a boy from the Earth Tribe that resided at an Air Temple following his home was ruined in a disaster, an event that rendered him unable to walk.

Thanks to his dad's prowess with engineering, he is able to glide in the air using his glider, even challenges Aang to a flying contest.

This card Teo showcases his fondness for the skies and his tribe's reliance of flying machines through letting you loot whenever you attack using an airborne creature, and additionally boosting your team via counters in the process.

Northern Air Temple: The Strong Shrine Enchantment

Speaking of his home, this is represented as a card named Northern Air Temple, that drains an opponent's life total upon entering play, based on the number Shrine cards you have.

It furthermore drains an additional life anytime a Shrine enters the battlefield.

It looks like an impactful card, considering the card's cheap mana cost plus valuable enter the battlefield ability.

A major drawback for Shrine-based decks in formats besides Commander are that Shrines are always legendary permanents, but Northern Air Temple can be effective when paired with Sanctum of Stone Fangs, that drains every opponent during the start of your turn.

The Timely Crossover

Currently when crossover sets are garnering significant criticism by fans, an iconic series like Avatar: The Last Airbender can be precisely just what Magic: The Gathering needs.

Preview period is already here, with all cards set to be launched November 21st.