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Magic: The Gathering fans frequently embrace tribe-based decks — what player hasn't constructed a zombie strategy at some point? — and this forthcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender crossover release is reintroducing two well-known mechanics which fit seamlessly with the flavor.

Reappearing Tribal Abilities

The initial ability, known as "Ally," was debuted in a Zendikar and gives boosts each time more permanents with this type come onto the field.

Alternatively, "Shrine" is an enchantment-based subtype that originated in Champions of Kamigawa. While not exactly creature-based tribal theme, these enchantments likewise gain abilities when a player has more Shrines in play.

The Return of the Ally Ability

While Shrine cards have been appeared occasionally across recent releases, Allies subtype has been seldom seen — but this ends with ATLA, in which this mechanic is central.

The protagonist Aang must recruit numerous companions during his quest to restore balance to the four nations, and it's no better way to reflect that through an Magic set.

Exclusive Card Showcase

Following its first set announcement, below is previews at an Ally plus one Shrines card from the new Avatar: The Last Airbender set.

Teo: The Beloved Figure

Teo is one cherished supporting figure from Avatar: The Last Airbender, a boy of Earth Kingdom who resided at an Air Temple following his village was ruined in a flood, which rendered him unable to walk.

Thanks to his father's prowess in mechanics, he can glide through the skies with a flying device, and dares the Avatar to a flying race.

This card Teo, Spirited Glider reproduces his passion for flying and the Earth Tribe's reliance on flying machines by letting you loot each time you attack using a flying creature, while additionally boosting your creatures via counters in the process.

The Temple Card: A Strong Shrine Enchantment

Regarding Teo's dwelling, it is represented as the card The Northern Air Temple, that drains your opponent's life total when coming into play, based on how many Shrine cards you control.

It also drains an additional life whenever a Shrine enters the battlefield.

This looks like a powerful card, given its low cost and good enter the battlefield ability.

One big drawback of Shrine strategies outside of Commander is that these cards are typically legendary permanents, but Northern Air Temple is effective when paired alongside Sanctum of Stone Fangs, that drains all opponents at the beginning of your main phase.

The Timely Crossover

At a time when crossover sets have been receiving significant criticism from fans, a beloved franchise such as Avatar: The Last Airbender could be precisely just what Magic: The Gathering requires.

Spoiler season has begun, with all cards set to be launched on Nov. 21.