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Magic: The Gathering players frequently adopt tribal decks — what player has not built a zombie strategy once or twice? — and the upcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender crossover set is reintroducing 2 popular examples which match seamlessly with its flavor.

Returning Tribal Abilities

One first ability, called "Ally," first debuted with a Zendikar set which grants bonuses whenever more creatures bearing the Ally subtype enter play.

Meanwhile, "Shrine" represents an enchantment-based type that first appeared with Champions of Kamigawa. Although not exactly a creature tribal theme, Shrines also gain abilities as a player controls more of them on the battlefield.

The Return for the Ally Mechanic

While Shrines have appeared occasionally across newer releases, the Ally mechanic was seldom seen — until that changes in Avatar: The Last Airbender, where the feature is heavily featured.

Aang has to gather numerous allies on his quest to restore peace across the world, so it's no better way to reflect this through an Magic: The Gathering set.

Exclusive Cards Preview

Following the first card announcement, here are previews at one Ally plus a Shrine card in the upcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender set.

Teo: The Beloved Figure

Teo stands as a popular supporting figure from ATLA, a young man of Earth Kingdom who lived in an Air Temple following his home was destroyed in a flood, which left him paraplegic.

Thanks to his dad's expertise in mechanics, he can glide through the skies with his glider, and challenges the Avatar to a flying contest.

This card Teo, Spirited Glider showcases his fondness of flying along with the Earth Tribe's use on flying machines through allowing you loot each time a player attacks with a flying creature, and additionally pumping your creatures with counters in the process.

Northern Air Temple: The Powerful Shrine

Speaking of his dwelling, it is represented as the card The Northern Air Temple, which reduces an opponent's life when entering play, depending on how many of Shrines you have.

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

It appears to be a strong card, given the card's cheap cost and valuable ETB effect.

One major weakness for Shrine decks in formats besides Commander are the fact that Shrines are always Legendary, but this card can be great when paired alongside another Shrine, which drains all opponents at the beginning of your turn.

The Timely Crossover

At a time when Universes Beyond sets are receiving significant criticism by fans, a beloved series like Avatar could be exactly what MTG requires.

Preview period is already here, with all cards set to be launched on Nov. 21.