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Magic: The Gathering enthusiasts consistently embrace tribe-based decks — what player hasn't built a zombie deck before? — and the new ATLA crossover release revives two popular mechanics which align perfectly with its setting.

Returning Tribe-Supporting Mechanics

The first ability, known as "Allies," was introduced in the Zendikar set which gives bonuses each time additional creatures with the Ally type enter the field.

On the other hand, "Shrines" is an enchantment type that originated in Champions of Kamigawa. Although not creature-based tribal theme, these enchantments likewise become power as a player has more of them in play.

The Return of Allies Mechanic

While Shrine cards have been appeared occasionally in recent sets, Allies subtype has been far less common — but this changes in Avatar: The Last Airbender, in which this feature is prominently used.

The protagonist Aang must gather numerous companions on his journey to restore balance to the four nations, and there's no better method to reflect that in a Magic: The Gathering set.

Exclusive Cards Showcase

Following the first card announcement, here is previews of one Allies and a Shrines card in the upcoming ATLA release.

Teo: The Beloved Figure

This character stands as a popular minor figure from ATLA, a boy from Earth Kingdom who lived in an Air Temple following his village was ruined by a flood, which rendered him unable to walk.

Due to his dad's prowess in mechanics, Teo is able to glide through the skies with a flying device, and challenges the Avatar to an aerial race.

The card Teo, Spirited Glider reproduces Teo's fondness for the skies and the Earth Tribe's reliance on gliders by allowing you loot whenever a player attacks using an airborne unit, while also pumping your creatures with +1/+1 counters in the process.

Northern Air Temple: The Strong Shrine Enchantment

Speaking of Teo's dwelling, this appears as the card The Northern Air Temple, which drains an opponent's life total upon coming into the battlefield, based on the number of Shrines you have.

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

It looks like a powerful addition, considering its low mana cost plus good ETB effect.

One big weakness for Shrine decks outside of Commander are the fact that Shrines are typically legendary permanents, but Northern Air Temple is effective when paired with Sanctum of Stone Fangs, which deals damage to every opponent during the start of your turn.

The Welcome Collaboration

Currently while Universes Beyond sets have been garnering significant criticism by the community, an iconic series like Avatar can be precisely what Magic: The Gathering needs.

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