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MTG enthusiasts frequently embrace tribal tactics — what player hasn't built an elf strategy once or twice? — and this upcoming ATLA crossover release is reintroducing 2 well-known mechanics that align perfectly with the flavor.

Returning Tribe-Supporting Abilities

One initial mechanic, named "Ally," was introduced with the Zendikar which provides bonuses whenever more creatures bearing this subtype enter the battlefield.

Meanwhile, "Shrine" is another enchantment type which first appeared with Champions of Kamigawa. Although not exactly creature-based tribe, these enchantments also become abilities when you owns more of them in play.

A Comeback for Allies Mechanic

Although Shrine cards have been shown up sporadically in newer sets, Allies subtype has been far less common — until this ends with ATLA, in which this mechanic gets prominently used.

Aang has to assemble numerous allies on the quest to bring back peace to the world, and there's no better method to represent that through a Magic set.

Exclusive Card Showcase

After the first card reveal, below is a look at an Ally plus one Shrines card in the upcoming ATLA release.

Teo, Spirited Glider: The Beloved Figure

Teo is a cherished supporting figure from ATLA, a boy of the Earth Tribe that resided in the Northern Air Temple after his home was ruined by a flood, which rendered him paraplegic.

Because of his dad's expertise with engineering, he is able to soar in the air with his glider, even challenges Aang to a flying race.

The card Teo, Spirited Glider represents his love for flying along with his tribe's reliance on flying machines by allowing the player loot each time you attack using a flying creature, while additionally boosting your creatures via counters at the same time.

The Temple Card: A Powerful Shrine Enchantment

Speaking of Teo's dwelling, it is represented in the card Northern Air Temple, which drains your opponent's life total when entering play, depending on how many Shrine cards you control.

It also removes one more point whenever a Shrine comes onto the battlefield.

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

One big drawback for Shrine-based strategies outside of Commander is the fact that these cards are always Legendary, however Northern Air Temple is effective in combination alongside Sanctum of Stone Fangs, which deals damage to every opponent during the start of your main phase.

A Welcome Collaboration

At a time while Universes Beyond sets are receiving significant criticism by the community, an iconic franchise like Avatar: The Last Airbender can be precisely just what Magic: The Gathering needs.

Preview period has begun, and all cards will be launched November 21st.