is updating some of its terminology to be more inclusive, including changing the contrꦑoversial tribal card𒁃 type to Kindred, the Naga subtype to Snake, and more.
Earlier this year, MTG's head designer, Mark Rosewater, . Although this seemed like a positive change, Rosewater noted that it was just internal for now and wasn't being "officially used anywhere on cards".
"Multiple consultants recommended we stop using the language, so w🐬e decided to change it."
Typal may not yet have officially been added to Magic: The Gathering cards, but it did signal that Wizards of the Coast was aiming to be more inclusive and change some of the more problematic and outdated language that was in the game. To further cement this mindset, Wizards of the Coast just shared an update that reveals some official cha෴nges that are being made to card terminology so that Magic: The Gathering can remain as inclusive as possible.
, "We are continuously reviewing our card catalogue and finding ways to update the game's language and visual representation with the processes, care, and sensitivity built into modern sets. As such, and to make our game as inclusive and welcoming as possible, we have several changes upcoming."
It then reveals that several chang♈es are going to be made to terminology and art used in the game alongside the Magic: The Gathering Arena rollout of Khans of Tarkir coming on December 12. A few cards will have their art changed to "follow updated creative guidelines", including Rakshasa Deathdealer, Rakshasa Debaser, Mahadi, Emporium Master, and more. The subtype "Cat" is also being removed for the cards that are having their art updated.
That's not the only change that's being made, though. Wizards of the Coast also revealed that it was going to be making a few terminology changes in upcoming sets. The terms that are being changed include the keyword ability Totem Armor, which is being changed to Umbra Armor, the subtype Naga, which is being changed to Snake, and, most notably, the Tribal card type (which includes cards such as Bitterblossom) being renamed Kindred.
It's not clear why Wizards of the Coast has changed its replacement for Tribal from Typal to Kindred, but it does seem like that's the terminology that it's sticking with going forward, alongside the changes made to Naga and Totem Armour. And hey, no matter what changes are made, a more inclusive Magic: The Gathering is a better Magic: The Gathering.
