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MTG fans frequently embrace tribal strategies — who hasn't constructed a zombie deck before? — and this new ATLA crossover set revives two well-known examples that align seamlessly to the theme.

Returning Tribal Abilities

The initial ability, called "Ally," was debuted with a Zendikar set which grants bonuses whenever additional permanents with this type enter the battlefield.

Meanwhile, "Shrine" is another enchantment subtype that first appeared in Champions of Kamigawa. Although not exactly a creature tribal theme, these enchantments also become abilities when a player has more Shrines in play.

The Return of Allies Mechanic

Although Shrine cards have appeared occasionally in recent sets, Allies mechanic was seldom seen — but this ends with Avatar: The Last Airbender, where the mechanic gets prominently used.

The protagonist Aang has to assemble many companions during the quest to restore peace to the world, and it's no better way to represent that in a Magic expansion.

Revealed Card Showcase

After its initial set announcement, here are a look of one Allies and one Shrine cards from the upcoming ATLA set.

Teo, Spirited Glider: A Fan-Favorite Character

This character is a cherished minor figure from ATLA, a young man from the Earth Tribe that lived at an Air Temple after his home was destroyed by a flood, an event that left him paraplegic.

Because of his father's expertise in engineering, Teo can soar through the skies using his glider, and challenges the Avatar to an aerial race.

The card Teo showcases his love for the skies and the Earth Tribe's reliance on gliders through letting you loot each time you attack with a flying creature, while additionally pumping your team via counters in the process.

Northern Air Temple: The Strong Shrine Enchantment

Speaking of Teo's dwelling, this is represented in a card named Northern Air Temple, that drains your opponent's life total upon coming into the battlefield, based on the number of Shrines you control.

The card also removes an additional point whenever a Shrine enters the battlefield.

This appears to be a strong addition, considering its cheap mana cost and valuable ETB effect.

One big drawback for Shrine-based strategies in formats besides Commander is that Shrines are typically Legendary, but this card can be great in combination with Sanctum of Stone Fangs, which deals damage to all opponents at the beginning of your turn.

A Timely Crossover

At a time while crossover sets have been receiving a lot of criticism from fans, a beloved series like Avatar could be precisely what MTG needs.

Spoiler season has begun, with all cards set to be released on Nov. 21.