In less than 12 hours the castaways of Survivor: Island of the Idols will be putting on new buffs, launching this season into its next phase.
In recent years, the first tribe swap typically occurs in episode three or four, so it was nice having an extra 60 minutes with the original Lairo and Vokai tribes for this season. We’re now approaching the fifth episode of Survivor: Island of the Idols and the original tribes are still intact. However, that’s about to change.
The episode 5 promos have made it clear that it’s time for a tribe swap. As indicated by the press photos, it appears that there will be a tribe swap and not an expansion to three tribes, but production could be tricking us. Heading into tonight’s episode of Survivor, here are three key storylines to keep an eye on.
1) Will Vokai pick off Lairo?
One of the biggest questions in every Survivor season is whether or not the swap will blur tribal lines. So far, Vokai has amassed a strong lead, as they’re at nine members to Lairo’s seven, but that’s by no means an overwhelming advantage.
If the swap is only between the two tribes and not expanding into a third, there’s no possibility of Vokai having a majority on both tribes. Another reason why I think this isn’t going to be a clear cut Pagonging is based on the gameplay so far. Many of these castaways have already made it clear that they’re not afraid to betray their own alliance to make a move.
2) Another idol is back in the game
After four episodes, Island of the Idols is giving us flashbacks of Edge of Extinction as two castaways have been voted out with an idol in their pocket. Coming into tonight’s episode, there are two idols in possession. Kellee has her temporary one from Island of the Idols, while Jamal has a legit idol from the Vokai beach.
The one that Chelsea found from the Lairo beach will likely re-enter the game. With the swap on its way and all of the paranoia that comes along with it, if the new Lairo tribe loses Immunity than this idol could be a crucial part of tonight’s Tribal Council.
3) Can the big guns stay on top?
On both tribes, a few castaways have emerged as powerful players that can take control over a vote. For Lairo, that’s definitely Missy and Aaron who have showcased their strategic ability in Chelsea’s blindside.
In terms of the Vokai tribe, Lauren pulled off a similar big move when leading the charge against Molly, while Tommy has been playing a very strong social game. It will be interesting to see if these players can still maintain a measure of control even after a reshuffled tribe.