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MTG enthusiasts frequently adopt tribe-based decks — what player has not assembled a goblin strategy once or twice? — and the forthcoming ATLA crossover set brings back two well-known mechanics that match perfectly with its theme.

Returning Tribal Abilities

One first mechanic, known as "Allies," was debuted in a Zendikar set which gives bonuses each time more permanents bearing this type come onto the field.

On the other hand, "Shrines" is an enchantment subtype which originated with Champions of Kamigawa. Although not exactly creature-based tribal theme, Shrines also gain power as a player owns more of them in play.

The Comeback of Allies Mechanic

While Shrine cards have shown up sporadically across newer sets, the Ally mechanic has been far less common — but this changes with Avatar: The Last Airbender, where this feature is central.

The protagonist Aang has to assemble many friends on his journey to bring back peace across the four nations, so there's no more fitting method to reflect this in an Magic: The Gathering set.

Revealed Card Showcase

After the first set announcement, below is previews of one Allies plus one Shrine cards in the upcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender set.

Teo, Spirited Glider: The Beloved Character

Teo stands as one cherished minor character from ATLA, a young man of Earth Kingdom that resided at the Northern Air Temple after his home was ruined in a disaster, which rendered him unable to walk.

Due to his dad's skill with mechanics, he is able to fly through the skies with a flying device, even dares Aang to a flying contest.

This card Teo showcases his passion of flying and his tribe's use of gliders by allowing the player loot each time you attack using an airborne unit, and also boosting your team via +1/+1 counters in the process.

The Temple Card: A Powerful Shrine

Regarding Teo's dwelling, it is represented as the card Northern Air Temple, which reduces your opponent's life when coming into the battlefield, based on the number of Shrines you control.

The card also drains one more life whenever a Shrine enters the field.

This appears to be an impactful card, given its low cost and valuable ETB ability.

One major drawback for Shrine-based decks outside of Commander are that Shrines are typically Legendary, but this card is effective when paired alongside another Shrine, that drains all opponents at the beginning of your turn.

The Timely Collaboration

At a time when crossover sets are garnering significant hate from fans, an iconic franchise like Avatar: The Last Airbender could be precisely what MTG needs.

Preview period has begun, and the full set set to be launched November 21st.