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Magic: The Gathering enthusiasts frequently enjoy tribe-based tactics — who has not built a zombie deck once or twice? — while the new Avatar: The Last Airbender crossover release brings back 2 popular examples which align perfectly to its setting.

Returning Tribal Abilities

One initial ability, called "Ally," first debuted with the Zendikar which provides buffs whenever additional creatures bearing this subtype enter the field.

On the other hand, "Shrine" represents another enchantment type that first appeared in Champions of Kamigawa. Although not exactly creature-based tribe, Shrines likewise become power as you has additional of them on the battlefield.

A Comeback of Allies Ability

While Shrine cards have appeared sporadically across recent releases, the Ally mechanic has been far less common — until this ends in Avatar: The Last Airbender, where the feature is prominently used.

The protagonist Aang has to recruit many companions on his journey to bring back peace across the four nations, so there's no more fitting way to show that in a Magic: The Gathering expansion.

Exclusive Cards Preview

Following the first card announcement, here is previews of one Allies plus one Shrines cards in the upcoming ATLA set.

Teo, Spirited Glider: A Fan-Favorite Figure

Teo stands as a beloved minor character in ATLA, a young man of the Earth Tribe who lived in an Air Temple following his village was ruined by a flood, which left him paraplegic.

Because of his dad's expertise with engineering, Teo can soar through the skies using a flying device, and dares Aang to an aerial contest.

The card Teo represents his fondness of flying along with his tribe's use on flying machines through letting you draw and discard each time a player attacks using an airborne creature, while also strengthening your creatures via counters at the same time.

Northern Air Temple: A Powerful Shrine Enchantment

Regarding Teo's dwelling, this is represented as the card The Northern Air Temple, which drains an opponent's life upon coming into play, based on how many of Shrines you control.

The card also drains an additional life whenever another Shrine comes onto the battlefield.

This appears to be a strong card, given the card's low cost plus valuable ETB effect.

A big drawback of Shrine decks in formats besides Commander is that these cards are always Legendary, however this card can be effective when paired alongside Sanctum of Stone Fangs, that drains all opponents at the beginning of your turn.

The Welcome Collaboration

At a time while crossover products have been receiving significant backlash by the community, an iconic franchise like Avatar can be precisely what MTG requires.

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