This is an update that introduces a distinct game mode within the established world of a popular card game. It shifts the focus from traditional deck-building and direct player-vs-player combat to a unique auto-battler experience. Here, eight players compete in a series of rounds, aiming to be the last one standing.

The core gameplay loop is divided into two distinct phases. The Recruit Phase allows players to strategically acquire and sell minions, upgrade their tavern to access stronger units, utilize their hero's unique power, and meticulously arrange their minions' attack order. Following this, the Combat Phase sees the recruited minions automatically engage in battle against an opponent's forces until one player's board is cleared. The surviving minions then deal damage to the defeated player, with the amount of damage influenced by the minions' Tavern Tier.

A significant departure from the parent game's mechanics is the absence of a traditional mana system. Instead, players manage a resource called Coins, which are used to purchase minions. The strength and cost of minions are primarily determined by their Tavern Tier, visually represented by a gold star rating on the card. This update, released in November 2019, is available on PC (Microsoft Windows), iOS, and Android platforms.

What is the core gameplay loop?

The gameplay revolves around a cyclical process of strategic recruitment and automated combat. Players spend Coins to build a board of diverse minions during the Recruit Phase. These minions then automatically fight an opponent's forces in the Combat Phase. Success in combat not only eliminates opposing minions but also inflicts damage on the opponent's hero, with the ultimate goal of outlasting all other players.

What makes this game mode unique?

This mode distinguishes itself through several key mechanics. The absence of mana and the introduction of Coins as the primary resource for acquiring minions fundamentally alter economic management. Furthermore, the auto-battler format, where combat resolution is automated, places a strong emphasis on pre-combat strategic decisions such as minion synergy, positioning, and tavern upgrades. The damage calculation system, where surviving minions contribute to hero damage based on their Tavern Tier, adds another layer of strategic depth.

Key Update: Evolution of the Battlegrounds Experience

As a significant update to the original card game, this mode has undergone continuous evolution since its initial release. While specific details of every patch are extensive, the overarching development has focused on:

Ongoing Rebalancing and Content Additions

Development consistently refines the game by introducing new minions, heroes, and mechanics. This includes:

Regular adjustments to minion and hero abilities to maintain a balanced meta.
Introduction of new Tavern Tiers, expanding the strategic possibilities.
Quality-of-life improvements to the user interface and overall player experience.
The addition of new playable heroes, each with unique powers that significantly impact strategic choices.

These ongoing updates ensure that the gameplay remains fresh and challenging for its player base.

Core Mechanics and Features

Recruit Phase

This is where players make crucial decisions. Actions include:

Purchasing and selling minions from the tavern.
Upgrading the tavern to unlock higher-tier minions and increase hand size.
Utilizing a hero's unique power, which often provides a distinct strategic advantage.
Rearranging the attack order of your minions to optimize combat outcomes.

Combat Phase

Once the Recruit Phase concludes, combat begins automatically. Minions attack opposing minions based on their position and stats. Surviving minions then deal damage to the opponent's hero, with the amount determined by the minions' Tavern Tier.

Resources

The primary resource is Coins, earned each turn and used to purchase minions and refresh the tavern. Players also manage Armor, which represents their hero's health pool.

Tavern Tiers

Minions are categorized into different Tavern Tiers, with higher tiers generally featuring more powerful units. Upgrading the tavern is essential for accessing these stronger minions.

Additional Content

This game mode does not feature separate DLCs or expansions in the traditional sense. Content updates and new additions are integrated directly into the game mode itself.