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Magic: The Gathering players frequently enjoy tribal decks — who has not assembled an elf strategy once or twice? — while the forthcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender crossover release is reintroducing 2 popular mechanics that match perfectly with its setting.

Reappearing Tribal Mechanics

One first ability, known as "Allies," first introduced in a Zendikar set which grants bonuses each time additional creatures bearing this subtype come onto the field.

Alternatively, "Shrine" is an enchantment-based type which originated with Kamigawa. Although not a creature tribe, these enchantments also become strength as a player controls additional Shrines in play.

The Comeback of the Ally Mechanic

While Shrines have shown up sporadically in newer releases, the Ally subtype was much rarer — until this changes with Avatar: The Last Airbender, in which the mechanic is heavily featured.

The protagonist Aang must gather a lot of companions during his journey to restore balance across the world, and it's no better method to show this in an Magic expansion.

Exclusive Card Showcase

Following the first set announcement, here is a look at one Allies plus a Shrine card from the upcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender set.

Teo, Spirited Glider: A Beloved Figure

Teo stands as one cherished supporting character in Avatar: The Last Airbender, a young man of Earth Kingdom that resided at an Air Temple following his home was ruined by a flood, which left him unable to walk.

Due to his father's skill with mechanics, Teo can soar through the skies using a flying device, even dares the Avatar in an aerial race.

The card Teo, Spirited Glider showcases his passion for the skies along with the Earth Tribe's use on gliders by letting you loot whenever you attack with a flying creature, and also pumping your team with +1/+1 counters in the process.

The Temple Card: A Powerful Shrine Enchantment

Speaking of his home, it appears as the card Northern Air Temple, which drains your opponent's life upon entering the battlefield, depending on how many of Shrines you have.

It also removes an additional point anytime another Shrine comes onto the field.

It appears to be a powerful card, considering its cheap mana cost plus good ETB effect.

One big weakness for Shrine decks outside of Commander are the fact that these cards are always legendary permanents, but this card can be great when paired with Sanctum of Stone Fangs, which drains all opponents during the start of your turn.

The Timely Crossover

At a time when crossover sets have been garnering a lot of hate by the community, a beloved series such as Avatar could be precisely what MTG needs.

Spoiler season has begun, with all cards will be released November 21st.