Survivor Edge of Extinction: Understanding Aurora’s Extra Vote decision

In this week’s episode of Survivor: Edge of Extinction, Aurora showed viewers that she has a strategic side and understands the game well.

One strength of Survivor: Edge of Extinction is the level of competition. Similar to last season, these remaining castaways are all conscious of the game around them. They know what’s involved in manipulating the votes and can all deceive someone into a false sense of security.

After this past episode, it’s safe to say that there aren’t any “goats” or coattail riders remaining. For a little while, some have argued that Aurora hasn’t been in the game and is a perfect person to take to the end. However, she proved she could do more than perform well in challenges and snoop in people’s bags.

Aurora was given a secret Extra Vote advantage from Aubry a few episodes ago. The latest she could use it is at the Final 7. Instead of keeping this advantage for herself, she recognized how valuable it could be if she shared it.

During her conversation with Victoria and Lauren, Aurora saw the opportunity to tweak the plan to allow for her extra vote, and to further protect herself. Rick was gunning for Aurora the entire episode, so if he pulled out an idol, she would be in serious trouble.

Aurora’s game awareness extended to understanding the power of her advantage. If Rick did play an idol, there’s a good chance only a couple of votes would count, which could easily result in a tie and a revote.

She was quick to pick up on the fact that the extra vote could also be used during a revote. However, since Aurora’s name was going to be written on at least Rick’s piece of parchment, that meant that she could be involved in a tie vote. As a result, she wouldn’t be able to vote or use her advantage for the revote.

Instead, Aurora wanted to give Gavin the extra vote. Since he won immunity, he was the only person guaranteed to vote in case of a tie. Was this a risky move? For sure! Gavin could have easily thrown the extra vote back on Aurora.

Sharing an advantage always comes with great risk, but it also comes with incredible potential. We just saw last season how powerful the David tribe became when they discussed the advantages as a team. Aurora’s extra vote management allowed her to build trust with Lauren, Gavin, and Victoria, as well as secure her survival despite being a target once again.

Looking back at the final vote, she didn’t necessarily have to give her advantage away, but it was still a savvy, precautionary move that showed she’s willing to commit to an alliance or voting bloc.  She might not have a winning edit, but Aurora has showcased her ability to play a smart, strategic game.