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Magic: The Gathering players often adopt tribal strategies — who hasn't constructed an elf strategy once or twice? — and the forthcoming ATLA crossover set is reintroducing two well-known mechanics which align seamlessly to the setting.

Returning Tribal Abilities

One first mechanic, known as "Ally," was introduced in the Zendikar and grants bonuses whenever additional permanents bearing this subtype come onto the field.

Alternatively, "Shrine" is an enchantment subtype which first appeared with Champions of Kamigawa. While not a creature tribe, these enchantments also become strength as you has additional of them in play.

The Comeback for the Ally Ability

Although Shrines have shown up sporadically in newer releases, Allies mechanic was far less common — until that changes with Avatar: The Last Airbender, in which this mechanic is central.

The protagonist Aang has to recruit numerous friends during his quest to restore balance across the four nations, and it's no better method to reflect that through a Magic: The Gathering set.

Exclusive Card Showcase

Following the initial card announcement, here are a look of one Allies and one Shrine cards in the upcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender release.

Teo: The Fan-Favorite Character

Teo is a beloved supporting figure from ATLA, a boy of the Earth Tribe who lived at an Air Temple after his village was ruined in a disaster, which rendered him paraplegic.

Because of his dad's skill in mechanics, he is able to glide through the skies using a flying device, and challenges the Avatar to an aerial contest.

The card Teo, Spirited Glider reproduces Teo's passion of flying along with his tribe's reliance of flying machines through letting you loot each time a player attacks with an airborne creature, while additionally boosting your team via +1/+1 counters in the process.

The Temple Card: A Powerful Shrine Enchantment

Speaking of his dwelling, it appears as a card named The Northern Air Temple, which drains your opponent's life total upon coming into play, based on the number of Shrines you have.

It furthermore removes an additional life whenever a Shrine comes onto the battlefield.

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

A big drawback of Shrine strategies outside of EDH are that Shrines are typically legendary permanents, however Northern Air Temple is great when paired with another Shrine, which drains all opponents at the beginning of your turn.

A Welcome Crossover

At a time when crossover sets are receiving a lot of backlash by fans, an iconic franchise like Avatar could be precisely what MTG requires.

Preview period has begun, with the full set set to be launched on Nov. 21.