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Magic: The Gathering enthusiasts frequently enjoy tribal strategies — who has not built a goblin deck before? — while the new ATLA crossover release is reintroducing 2 beloved mechanics which align perfectly with the flavor.

Reappearing Tribal Abilities

One initial ability, known as "Allies," was introduced with the Zendikar which gives buffs each time additional creatures with this type come onto the battlefield.

Meanwhile, "Shrines" represents another enchantment type which first appeared with Kamigawa. Although not creature-based tribal theme, these enchantments also gain abilities when you owns more Shrines on the battlefield.

The Return for the Ally Mechanic

While Shrine cards have been shown up here and there in recent sets, the Ally mechanic has been far less common — but that ends in ATLA, where this mechanic is prominently used.

Aang has to assemble numerous companions on the quest to bring back peace across the four nations, and there's no better way to represent this through an Magic: The Gathering expansion.

Exclusive Card Showcase

Following its initial card reveal, below is a look at an Allies and a Shrines cards in the upcoming ATLA release.

Teo, Spirited Glider: A Beloved Character

Teo stands as one popular supporting figure in Avatar: The Last Airbender, a boy from Earth Kingdom that resided at the Northern Air Temple following his home was ruined in a flood, an event that left him paraplegic.

Due to his dad's prowess in mechanics, Teo is able to fly in the air with his glider, and dares the Avatar to an aerial contest.

This card Teo, Spirited Glider represents Teo's love of the skies and the Earth Tribe's reliance on gliders through allowing the player loot each time you attack using an airborne creature, while additionally pumping your team via counters at the same time.

The Temple Card: A Strong Shrine Enchantment

Regarding his home, it is represented as the card The Northern Air Temple, which drains your opponent's life upon entering the battlefield, depending on the number of Shrines you control.

It also removes an additional point whenever a Shrine enters the battlefield.

It appears to be an impactful addition, given the card's cheap mana cost plus valuable ETB ability.

One big weakness of Shrine decks in formats besides Commander is the fact that these cards are typically legendary permanents, however this card is great when paired with another Shrine, which deals damage to every opponent at the beginning of your main phase.

A Welcome Collaboration

At a time while Universes Beyond sets have been garnering a lot of criticism from fans, a beloved series like Avatar can be exactly just what MTG requires.

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