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MTG players frequently embrace tribe-based tactics — what player has not assembled a zombie deck at some point? — while the upcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender crossover release brings back 2 beloved mechanics that fit perfectly with the setting.

Returning Tribe-Supporting Mechanics

The initial ability, named "Ally," first debuted with the Zendikar and gives bonuses each time additional creatures with the Ally type come onto the battlefield.

Alternatively, "Shrine" is an enchantment type which first appeared with Kamigawa. Although not exactly creature-based tribal theme, these enchantments also become strength when you owns additional Shrines on the battlefield.

A Comeback for Allies Mechanic

While Shrine cards have shown up occasionally in newer sets, the Ally mechanic was seldom seen — but that changes in Avatar: The Last Airbender, where the feature is heavily featured.

The protagonist Aang has to assemble a lot of allies on his quest to restore peace across the four nations, and there's no better method to show that through a Magic: The Gathering set.

Exclusive Card Showcase

Following its first set announcement, below is a look of an Allies and a Shrine cards from the upcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender release.

Teo, Spirited Glider: The Fan-Favorite Figure

This character is a popular supporting character in Avatar: The Last Airbender, a young man of Earth Kingdom that lived in the Northern Air Temple after his home was destroyed in a flood, an event that rendered him unable to walk.

Because of his dad's skill in mechanics, he can glide in the air using a flying device, and dares the Avatar to a flying race.

The card Teo, Spirited Glider reproduces Teo's fondness for the skies and his tribe's reliance on gliders by allowing you loot whenever you attack with an airborne unit, and additionally strengthening your team with +1/+1 counters in the process.

The Temple Card: The Powerful Shrine Enchantment

Regarding his home, this is represented in the card The Northern Air Temple, that reduces an opponent's life total upon coming into the battlefield, based on how many Shrine cards you have.

The card furthermore removes one more point whenever a Shrine comes onto the field.

It looks like a powerful addition, considering its cheap cost and good ETB effect.

One major weakness of Shrine-based decks outside of EDH is the fact that these cards are always Legendary, but Northern Air Temple can be effective in combination alongside another Shrine, which deals damage to every opponent at the beginning of your turn.

A Timely Collaboration

Currently when crossover products are receiving significant criticism from fans, an iconic franchise like Avatar could be exactly just what Magic: The Gathering needs.

Spoiler season has begun, with the full set will be launched on Nov. 21.