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Magic: The Gathering players often embrace tribal tactics — what player has not assembled a goblin strategy before? — and the upcoming ATLA crossover release revives 2 beloved mechanics which match perfectly to the flavor.

Returning Tribal Mechanics

One first mechanic, known as "Allies," was debuted in the Zendikar set and provides buffs whenever more creatures bearing this subtype come onto the field.

On the other hand, "Shrine" is another enchantment type that originated with Kamigawa. Although not a creature tribal theme, these enchantments likewise gain strength as a player controls additional Shrines on the battlefield.

The Return of the Ally Mechanic

While Shrines have been shown up here and there across recent releases, Allies mechanic has been far less common — but this changes with ATLA, where this feature gets heavily featured.

Aang must gather numerous companions during his journey to bring back peace to the four nations, so it's no more fitting way to show this in an Magic expansion.

Revealed Card Showcase

After its first card announcement, here is previews at one Ally and a Shrines card from the upcoming ATLA release.

Teo, Spirited Glider: A Fan-Favorite Figure

This character is a cherished supporting figure in ATLA, a boy of the Earth Tribe who resided at an Air Temple after his village was destroyed by a disaster, which rendered him unable to walk.

Thanks to his dad's prowess in mechanics, Teo is able to fly through the skies with a flying device, even challenges Aang in a flying race.

This card Teo showcases his passion of the skies and his tribe's use of gliders through letting the player loot whenever you attack with an airborne creature, and additionally boosting your team via counters at the same time.

The Temple Card: A Strong Shrine

Regarding Teo's dwelling, this is represented as the card Northern Air Temple, that drains an opponent's life total upon coming into play, based on the number Shrine cards you control.

It also drains one more life whenever a Shrine comes onto the field.

It appears to be a strong addition, considering its low cost plus good ETB effect.

One big weakness for Shrine-based decks in formats besides Commander are that Shrines are typically legendary permanents, but Northern Air Temple is effective when paired alongside Sanctum of Stone Fangs, that deals damage to all opponents at the beginning of your main phase.

The Welcome Collaboration

At a time when crossover products have been receiving significant criticism by fans, an iconic franchise like Avatar: The Last Airbender could be exactly just what Magic: The Gathering needs.

Spoiler season has begun, and all cards will be launched November 21st.