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MTG players frequently enjoy tribe-based tactics — who hasn't constructed a zombie deck at some point? — and the upcoming ATLA crossover set is reintroducing 2 well-known mechanics which align seamlessly to the theme.

Returning Tribe-Supporting Mechanics

One first mechanic, known as "Ally," first introduced with the Zendikar set and gives buffs each time more creatures with the Ally type enter play.

Alternatively, "Shrines" is another enchantment-based subtype which first appeared with Kamigawa. While not a creature tribe, Shrines likewise become abilities as you has more Shrines in play.

A Return for the Ally Mechanic

Although Shrines have been appeared here and there in recent sets, Allies mechanic was much rarer — but this changes with ATLA, in which the feature is prominently used.

The protagonist Aang must assemble numerous allies on the quest to restore balance to the four nations, and it's no better way to represent this through a Magic: The Gathering expansion.

Revealed Card Showcase

After the initial card announcement, here are a look at one Allies and a Shrine cards in the new Avatar: The Last Airbender release.

Teo, Spirited Glider: A Beloved Character

Teo is a cherished supporting character in Avatar: The Last Airbender, a boy from Earth Kingdom who lived at an Air Temple after his home was destroyed by a flood, an event that left him paraplegic.

Thanks to his father's prowess with mechanics, he can soar in the air using his glider, and challenges the Avatar to an aerial race.

This card Teo reproduces Teo's passion for the skies and his tribe's reliance on flying machines by letting you loot each time a player attacks with an airborne creature, and additionally pumping your team with +1/+1 counters in the process.

Northern Air Temple: The Strong Shrine

Speaking of his home, this appears in a card named The Northern Air Temple, which drains an opponent's life total upon entering the battlefield, based on the number Shrine cards you have.

It furthermore removes one more life whenever another Shrine comes onto the battlefield.

It appears to be an impactful addition, considering the card's low mana cost plus good ETB effect.

One major drawback for Shrine-based strategies outside of Commander is the fact that Shrines are typically legendary permanents, however this card is great in combination with Sanctum of Stone Fangs, that deals damage to every opponent at the beginning of your turn.

A Timely Collaboration

At a time while Universes Beyond products have been garnering a lot of hate by fans, an iconic franchise such as Avatar can be exactly just what MTG needs.

Preview period has begun, and the full set set to be launched November 21st.