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MTG enthusiasts often embrace tribe-based strategies — what player has not constructed a goblin deck before? — while the new ATLA crossover release is reintroducing 2 beloved mechanics that match perfectly with its theme.

Returning Tribal Mechanics

One initial ability, called "Ally," first introduced in a Zendikar set which grants bonuses each time additional creatures with this subtype come onto the battlefield.

Meanwhile, "Shrines" is an enchantment type that originated with Champions of Kamigawa. While not a creature tribe, Shrines likewise become strength when you has additional of them in play.

The Return of Allies Mechanic

While Shrine cards have shown up sporadically across recent sets, the Ally mechanic has been seldom seen — but that ends in ATLA, where the mechanic gets prominently used.

The protagonist Aang must gather numerous allies during the quest to bring back balance across the world, and it's no better method to represent this through an Magic expansion.

Revealed Cards Preview

After its first card reveal, below are previews of one Allies plus a Shrines cards from the new ATLA release.

Teo, Spirited Glider: The Beloved Character

This character stands as a popular supporting figure from Avatar: The Last Airbender, a young man from Earth Kingdom that resided in an Air Temple following his home was ruined by a disaster, an event that rendered him unable to walk.

Because of his dad's skill in mechanics, he is able to soar through the skies with a flying device, even dares Aang to a flying race.

This card Teo showcases his passion for the skies and the Earth Tribe's reliance on gliders through allowing you draw and discard whenever a player attacks with an airborne unit, while also pumping your team with +1/+1 counters at the same time.

The Temple Card: A Powerful Shrine Enchantment

Regarding his dwelling, it is represented in a card named The Northern Air Temple, that drains your opponent's life upon entering play, depending on how many of Shrines you have.

The card furthermore drains an additional life anytime another Shrine enters the field.

It appears to be an impactful addition, given its low mana cost and valuable ETB effect.

One major weakness for Shrine-based strategies in formats besides EDH are the fact that these cards are typically Legendary, but this card can be effective when paired alongside another Shrine, which drains all opponents at the beginning of your main phase.

The Timely Collaboration

Currently when Universes Beyond sets have been garnering significant backlash by the community, an iconic series such as Avatar could be precisely just what Magic: The Gathering needs.

Preview period is already here, and all cards set to be released November 21st.