Supercell’s mobile strategy game Clash Royale has been the subject of much debate among its players about whether it is indeed a “pay-to-win” game, or does everything in fact work out to where you can advance simply by playing? The game is free to play, although the app includes in-app purchases, allowing a player to buy gems, chests and cards which lets you get an upper hand over people who don’t spend real money.
Image Credits: Supercell
Clash Royale: Can You Hold Advantage Even Without Paying?
Gameplay and Progression
Clash Royale is a card game where you have to build your troops, spells and building cards into a deck and use that deck to attack the opponent towers. While the game rewards you with chests and cards as you soldier on, they accumulate at a glacial pace. You see, Clash Royale players can progress through the game much quicker by paying and buying gems which are ‘subsequent to game currency’ used for purchasing chests or upgrading cards on a much faster basis.
Skill and Strategy
Even though spending money speeds things up, Clash Royale still rewards skill—big time. Sure, paying players might have leveled-up cards faster, but a well-placed Fireball or a sneaky Goblin Barrel can change the whole game. Strategy and timing often trump money. Even the most cash-flushed player can’t just swipe their way to victory without knowing what they’re doing.
Community Opinions
This issue has a very blue or white position in the Clash Royale community. Certain players argue that the game is very pay-to-win based, while other suggest that great amounts of skill and strategy can some-what overcome money spent. It remains a matter of contention and players are frequently sharing their take on community forums or social media.
Image Source: Supercell
Conclusion
Whether or not Clash Royale is pay-to-win depends on how you look at it. If you’re cool with a slower grind, you can still have tons of fun for free and this is why it’s one of the best free games on mobile. But if you’re after fast progress and shiny max-level cards, then yes, opening your wallet could give you a leg up. But remember, in the end, even a perfectly leveled Golem can’t save you from a well-placed P.E.K.K.A.
If you’re curious about more topics, check out ‘Does Clash Royale Have Bots?’