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MTG players frequently enjoy tribal tactics — what player hasn't constructed a goblin deck before? — and the forthcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender crossover release is reintroducing 2 well-known examples that fit perfectly with the theme.

Reappearing Tribe-Supporting Mechanics

The first mechanic, called "Ally," first introduced in a Zendikar which provides boosts each time additional permanents bearing the Ally subtype enter play.

Alternatively, "Shrine" represents another enchantment type which originated with Champions of Kamigawa. While not exactly a creature tribe, Shrines also become strength when a player owns more of them in play.

The Return for Allies Mechanic

Although Shrines have been shown up occasionally across newer releases, Allies subtype was seldom seen — but this ends with Avatar: The Last Airbender, where this feature is heavily featured.

Aang must recruit numerous allies during his quest to restore peace across the four nations, and it's no more fitting way to show that through an Magic: The Gathering set.

Revealed Cards Preview

Following its initial set announcement, here is a look at one Allies plus one Shrines cards from the upcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender release.

Teo, Spirited Glider: The Fan-Favorite Figure

This character stands as one popular minor figure in ATLA, a boy from the Earth Tribe that resided in an Air Temple following his home was ruined in a flood, an event that left him unable to walk.

Because of his dad's prowess in mechanics, Teo can fly in the air using a flying device, even dares the Avatar to a flying contest.

This card Teo, Spirited Glider represents Teo's fondness for flying along with his tribe's reliance of gliders by allowing you draw and discard whenever a player attacks with an airborne unit, while additionally boosting your team with +1/+1 counters in the process.

Northern Air Temple: The Strong Shrine Enchantment

Speaking of his home, this appears in the card The Northern Air Temple, which reduces your opponent's life upon entering the battlefield, depending on the number of Shrines you have.

It also drains an additional point whenever another Shrine enters the field.

It appears to be an impactful card, considering its low cost and good ETB ability.

One major drawback for Shrine-based strategies outside of Commander is that Shrines are typically legendary permanents, but this card can be effective in combination with another Shrine, that deals damage to every opponent during the start of your turn.

A Timely Collaboration

At a time when crossover sets are garnering significant criticism by fans, a beloved series like Avatar could be precisely just what MTG needs.

Preview period has begun, and all cards will be released on Nov. 21.