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MTG players frequently adopt tribal decks — what player has not constructed a goblin deck once or twice? — while this new Avatar: The Last Airbender crossover release is reintroducing two well-known mechanics which match seamlessly to the theme.

Reappearing Tribe-Supporting Abilities

One first ability, called "Allies," was introduced with a Zendikar set which provides buffs whenever additional creatures with this subtype enter play.

On the other hand, "Shrines" represents an enchantment subtype that first appeared in Champions of Kamigawa. Although not exactly a creature tribal theme, these enchantments likewise become abilities as you has more of them in play.

A Return for Allies Mechanic

While Shrines have been shown up sporadically across newer sets, Allies subtype was seldom seen — but this ends with ATLA, in which this feature is prominently used.

The protagonist Aang must gather a lot of allies on his quest to restore peace across the four nations, and it's no more fitting way to reflect this through an Magic set.

Revealed Cards Showcase

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

Teo: The Beloved Character

This character is a cherished minor figure from Avatar: The Last Airbender, a young man of Earth Kingdom who lived at the Northern Air Temple following his village was destroyed by a flood, an event that left him paraplegic.

Due to his father's expertise with engineering, Teo can glide in the air with his glider, and dares Aang to an aerial contest.

The card Teo, Spirited Glider reproduces Teo's fondness of the skies along with his tribe's reliance of gliders through allowing the player draw and discard whenever a player attacks with a flying creature, while additionally strengthening your creatures via counters in the process.

The Temple Card: A Strong Shrine Enchantment

Regarding his home, it is represented in a card named Northern Air Temple, that drains an opponent's life total upon coming into play, based on how many Shrine cards you control.

It also drains one more point anytime another Shrine enters the field.

It appears to be a strong addition, considering its low mana cost and valuable ETB ability.

One major drawback for Shrine strategies outside of Commander are that these cards are typically Legendary, however Northern Air Temple can be great when paired alongside Sanctum of Stone Fangs, that deals damage to every opponent at the beginning of your turn.

The Welcome Crossover

At a time when Universes Beyond sets are garnering significant criticism from fans, an iconic series like Avatar could be precisely what MTG requires.

Spoiler season has begun, and the full set set to be launched November 21st.