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MTG fans frequently enjoy tribal strategies — what player hasn't built a goblin deck at some point? — and the forthcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender crossover release is reintroducing two popular mechanics which match seamlessly with its theme.

Returning Tribe-Supporting Mechanics

One initial ability, called "Ally," first debuted with a Zendikar set and grants buffs each time more permanents bearing this type enter play.

Meanwhile, "Shrine" represents another enchantment-based subtype that first appeared in Champions of Kamigawa. While not creature-based tribal theme, Shrines likewise become strength when you controls additional of them on the battlefield.

A Comeback for the Ally Mechanic

While Shrines have been appeared occasionally across newer releases, Allies mechanic was seldom seen — until that changes with Avatar: The Last Airbender, where the feature gets central.

Aang must gather numerous allies on his quest to restore balance to the four nations, so there's no better way to reflect that in a Magic: The Gathering set.

Revealed Card Showcase

Following its initial card reveal, here is previews of one Allies and one Shrines cards in the upcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender release.

Teo, Spirited Glider: A Beloved Figure

This character is a cherished supporting figure from ATLA, a boy of the Earth Tribe that resided at the Northern Air Temple following his village was ruined in a flood, which left him paraplegic.

Because of his father's skill in mechanics, he can soar in the air with his glider, and dares Aang in an aerial contest.

This card Teo, Spirited Glider represents his passion of flying along with the Earth Tribe's reliance on gliders through letting you loot whenever you attack using an airborne unit, while additionally strengthening your team with +1/+1 counters at the same time.

The Temple Card: A Powerful Shrine Enchantment

Speaking of Teo's home, this appears as a card named The Northern Air Temple, that drains your opponent's life total upon entering the battlefield, based on the number of Shrines you have.

The card also removes one more life whenever a Shrine comes onto the field.

It appears to be a strong card, given its cheap mana cost plus valuable ETB ability.

A major drawback of Shrine strategies in formats besides EDH is that Shrines are always legendary permanents, however Northern Air Temple is effective when paired with another Shrine, that drains all opponents during the start of your turn.

The Welcome Crossover

At a time when crossover products have been receiving a lot of hate by the community, an iconic franchise such as Avatar could be precisely just what MTG needs.

Spoiler season has begun, and the full set will be released November 21st.