308. Kindreds

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In short

Kindred (formerly "tribal"): the card type that gives creature types to noncreature cards — e.g. a Kindred instant with subtype Elf so that "Elf spell" effects apply. Rare, but good to know.

Informal summary — the official English text below is authoritative.

308.1.Each kindred card has another card type. Casting and resolving a kindred card follows the rules for casting and resolving a card of the other card type.

308.2.Kindred subtypes are usually a single word long and are listed after a long dash: “Kindred Enchantment — Merfolk.” The set of kindred subtypes is the same as the set of creature subtypes; these subtypes are called creature types. Kindreds may have multiple subtypes. See rule 205.3m for the complete list of creature types.

308.3.Some older kindred cards were printed with the “tribal” card type. Cards printed with that type have received errata in the Oracle card reference.

Source: Wizards of the Coast, Magic: The Gathering Comprehensive Rules. Unofficial presentation under the Fan Content Policy. Rules effective as of Sep 25, 2026