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Magic: The Gathering players consistently enjoy tribal tactics — what player hasn't built an elf deck once or twice? — and the forthcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender crossover release revives 2 well-known examples which match perfectly to the setting.

Returning Tribal Mechanics

The first ability, known as "Allies," first debuted with a Zendikar set and gives boosts each time additional creatures bearing the Ally subtype come onto the field.

Meanwhile, "Shrine" represents an enchantment type that originated in Kamigawa. While not exactly creature-based tribal theme, these enchantments likewise become strength as a player has additional of them in play.

The Return for the Ally Mechanic

While Shrines have been appeared occasionally across newer releases, Allies subtype has been much rarer — until this changes in Avatar: The Last Airbender, in which this feature is prominently used.

Aang must assemble many companions on the quest to restore balance across the four nations, so it's no better way to show that in an Magic expansion.

Exclusive Cards Showcase

Following the first card reveal, below are previews at an Ally plus a Shrines cards from the upcoming ATLA set.

Teo, Spirited Glider: The Fan-Favorite Character

Teo stands as one popular supporting figure from Avatar: The Last Airbender, a boy from Earth Kingdom who resided in the Northern Air Temple after his village was destroyed in a flood, an event that rendered him unable to walk.

Thanks to his dad's expertise with engineering, Teo can fly through the skies using a flying device, and challenges Aang to an aerial race.

This card Teo, Spirited Glider showcases his love of flying and the Earth Tribe's use on flying machines by letting the player loot each time a player attacks using a flying creature, while additionally boosting your creatures via +1/+1 counters at the same time.

Northern Air Temple: A Powerful Shrine Enchantment

Regarding Teo's dwelling, it is represented as a card named Northern Air Temple, which drains an opponent's life upon coming into the battlefield, depending on how many Shrine cards you have.

It furthermore removes an additional life anytime a Shrine comes onto the field.

It looks like an impactful addition, given the card's cheap mana cost and valuable ETB ability.

A major drawback of Shrine-based decks outside of EDH is the fact that these cards are always legendary permanents, however this card can be effective when paired alongside another Shrine, which drains all opponents during the start of your main phase.

A Welcome Crossover

At a time when crossover sets have been garnering significant criticism from fans, an iconic franchise like Avatar could be precisely just what MTG requires.

Spoiler season is already here, with the full set will be released on Nov. 21.