Survivor history: Determining the six eras of gameplay
By Jacob Rausch
The Meta Era (Seasons 31-present)
The present era of Survivor has intended to satisfy superfans. This did not come without several twist variations; a plethora of twists that exist to create chaos.
Fans got to vote for their own cast, which is incredible. The cast of Cambodia was motivated to make their fans proud, while no one played for second place. The frequent use of the terms “big moves” and “voting blocs” saw an unprecedented level of strategy.
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Kaoh Rong and Millennials vs. Gen X continued the momentum with newbies who really went for it. The Legacy Advantage was introduced, which was overrated. It still has such a small chance of actually paying off.
Game Changers would attempt to capture the aura of Cambodia, but it was too forced. Only about half the cast were actually “game changers.” The other half belonged on a second-chances-style season. The surplus of twists would culminate with Advantage-gedon, while the game would simply become too much about advantages.
The Heroes vs Healers vs. Hustlers Final 4 Twist made the ending of the game Big Brother-like; you can now gimmick your way to the end.
Seasons 31 to 35 featured four extra votes and a vote steal, a vote cancel, two Legacy Advantages and two Super Idols with limited abilities. Now it is a surprise if an idol is not played at Tribal Council.
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Nothing belongs in the meta era more than Ghost Island. It is a season completely based on previous twists! Survivor loves its twists so much that the twists are getting a second chance. This rewards the hardcore fans. New fans may be slightly confused next season, but if you are watching season 36, it is unlikely that you are a new viewer. The meta era is in full swing with Ghost Island.