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Magic: The Gathering enthusiasts frequently adopt tribe-based tactics — what player hasn't constructed a zombie deck once or twice? — and this forthcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender crossover release brings back 2 well-known examples which align seamlessly with the flavor.

Returning Tribe-Supporting Abilities

The initial ability, named "Allies," was introduced in the Zendikar which gives boosts each time more creatures with this type come onto the field.

On the other hand, "Shrine" represents an enchantment-based subtype which first appeared in Kamigawa. While not exactly a creature tribal theme, Shrines likewise become strength when a player controls additional of them on the battlefield.

The Return of the Ally Ability

Although Shrine cards have appeared here and there in recent sets, the Ally mechanic was seldom seen — until that ends in Avatar: The Last Airbender, in which this mechanic is central.

Aang must gather a lot of friends during the quest to bring back peace across the world, and there's no more fitting method to reflect this in an Magic: The Gathering set.

Revealed Cards Showcase

After the first set reveal, here are previews at an Ally and one Shrine card from the new ATLA release.

Teo, Spirited Glider: The Beloved Character

Teo stands as one popular minor character in ATLA, a boy of the Earth Tribe who lived at an Air Temple following his home was destroyed in a disaster, an event that rendered him unable to walk.

Due to his father's prowess in mechanics, Teo can fly through the skies using a flying device, and dares the Avatar to an aerial contest.

This card Teo, Spirited Glider represents Teo's passion of flying and the Earth Tribe's reliance on gliders through letting you draw and discard whenever you attack with a flying creature, and additionally pumping your team via +1/+1 counters at the same time.

The Temple Card: A Strong Shrine

Speaking of Teo's dwelling, it is represented as a card named Northern Air Temple, which reduces an opponent's life upon coming into play, depending on the number Shrine cards you control.

The card also drains one more point anytime a Shrine comes onto the battlefield.

It appears to be a strong card, considering its cheap mana cost and good ETB effect.

A big drawback for Shrine-based decks outside of EDH are that these cards are typically legendary permanents, however Northern Air Temple can be great when paired alongside another Shrine, that drains all opponents during the start of your turn.

The Welcome Crossover

Currently while Universes Beyond products have been garnering significant criticism from the community, an iconic franchise such as Avatar: The Last Airbender could be precisely what Magic: The Gathering requires.

Preview period has begun, and the full set set to be released on Nov. 21.