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MTG enthusiasts frequently adopt tribal strategies — what player has not assembled a zombie strategy before? — while the new ATLA crossover release revives 2 beloved mechanics which match perfectly with its setting.

Returning Tribal Abilities

One initial ability, called "Ally," first debuted in a Zendikar set which grants boosts each time additional permanents with this subtype enter the battlefield.

Meanwhile, "Shrines" is another enchantment-based type which first appeared in Kamigawa. Although not a creature tribal theme, these enchantments likewise become power when a player controls additional Shrines in play.

A Comeback for the Ally Ability

Although Shrine cards have been shown up here and there in recent releases, the Ally mechanic was much rarer — but that ends in ATLA, where this mechanic is central.

Aang has to assemble many companions on his journey to bring back balance across the world, and there's no better way to show that through a Magic: The Gathering expansion.

Exclusive Cards Preview

Following its first set reveal, here are previews at an Allies and one Shrines card in the upcoming ATLA set.

Teo: A Beloved Character

Teo stands as a popular supporting figure from ATLA, a young man of Earth Kingdom that lived at an Air Temple following his village was destroyed in a flood, an event that rendered him unable to walk.

Due to his father's skill with engineering, he is able to soar in the air using his glider, even dares the Avatar in an aerial race.

This card Teo, Spirited Glider showcases his fondness of the skies along with his tribe's use on gliders by letting the player draw and discard whenever a player attacks with an airborne creature, while also boosting your team with +1/+1 counters in the process.

Northern Air Temple: A Powerful Shrine

Speaking of Teo's home, this is represented in a card named The Northern Air Temple, that reduces an opponent's life when coming into the battlefield, based on the number of Shrines you have.

The card also removes an additional life anytime another Shrine enters the battlefield.

It appears to be a strong addition, considering its low mana cost and good enter the battlefield effect.

One big drawback of Shrine-based strategies in formats besides Commander are the fact that Shrines are always legendary permanents, however this card is great in combination alongside another Shrine, that drains every opponent during the start of your turn.

A Welcome Crossover

Currently when crossover sets are garnering significant hate by fans, an iconic franchise like Avatar can be exactly just what MTG needs.

Spoiler season is already here, and the full set set to be released November 21st.