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MTG enthusiasts consistently enjoy tribe-based tactics — what player has not constructed a goblin deck before? — and this new Avatar: The Last Airbender crossover set brings back 2 popular examples that fit seamlessly with its setting.

Reappearing Tribal Abilities

The first mechanic, called "Allies," was introduced in a Zendikar set and grants buffs whenever more permanents bearing the Ally type come onto the field.

Alternatively, "Shrine" is another enchantment-based subtype that originated with Champions of Kamigawa. Although not creature-based tribal theme, Shrines likewise become abilities when you has additional of them in play.

The Comeback for the Ally Mechanic

While Shrines have been shown up occasionally in newer releases, the Ally mechanic was far less common — until this ends with ATLA, in which this feature is heavily featured.

The protagonist Aang must assemble many friends on the quest to restore peace to the world, and it's no more fitting way to reflect this in a Magic set.

Exclusive Card Preview

Following the initial card announcement, below is a look at one Ally and a Shrine cards from the upcoming ATLA release.

Teo, Spirited Glider: A Beloved Character

Teo is a cherished supporting character from Avatar: The Last Airbender, a boy of Earth Kingdom that resided at an Air Temple following his home was destroyed in a flood, which left him paraplegic.

Due to his dad's expertise with mechanics, he is able to glide through the skies with his glider, and dares Aang to an aerial contest.

The card Teo represents his love for flying and his tribe's use on gliders by allowing the player draw and discard whenever a player attacks with a flying unit, while additionally boosting your team with +1/+1 counters at the same time.

Northern Air Temple: The Powerful Shrine

Regarding his dwelling, it appears in a card named The Northern Air Temple, that drains an opponent's life total when entering the battlefield, depending on the number Shrine cards you control.

It also drains an additional point whenever another Shrine comes onto the field.

This appears to be an impactful addition, given its cheap mana cost plus valuable ETB effect.

One big drawback for Shrine strategies in formats besides Commander are the fact that Shrines are always legendary permanents, however Northern Air Temple can be effective in combination alongside Sanctum of Stone Fangs, which deals damage to all opponents during the start of your turn.

A Timely Crossover

Currently while Universes Beyond sets are garnering significant hate by fans, a beloved series like Avatar could be precisely just what MTG needs.

Spoiler season has begun, and all cards will be released on Nov. 21.