Brawl Stars
In the digital age, where gaming is no longer just seen as a leisure activity but also as a lucrative business model, one title in particular stands out: Brawl Stars. This game from Supercell, the makers of hits such as “Clash of Clans” and “Clash Royale”, has become a phenomenon since its launch in December 2018. But what makes “Brawl Stars” so successful, iconic and addictive? Let’s dive into the colourful world of Brawlers to uncover the secret behind the cartoon conflicts.
The “Brawl Stars” phenomenon
“Brawl Stars is a multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game that immerses players worldwide in fast-paced 3v3 matches. Each character, known as a Brawler, brings unique abilities to the arena, giving the game a tactical depth that you might not expect at first glance. The success of Brawl Stars can be attributed to a combination of accessible gameplay, regular updates and a deep but fair monetisation system.
The cult
How does a mobile game become a cultural phenomenon? “Brawl Stars” has achieved the feat of inspiring not just gamers, but an entire community. From YouTube to Reddit to Twitch – fans everywhere are discussing, streaming and sharing their experiences and strategies. The game’s visual style, cartoonish and colourful, as well as the constantly new game modes and characters keep players engaged and the game fresh.
The monetisation of fun
Supercell has drilled a goldmine with “Brawl Stars”, and it’s not just because of the fun gameplay. The game follows a free-to-play model, but with a twist. Instead of relying solely on in-app purchases for cosmetic items, “Brawl Stars” offers a seasonal pass that not only gives players exclusive rewards, but also a progressive path through the game world. This strategy maximises revenue while enriching the gaming experience with a sense of constant reward and progression.
Dopamine and addiction
The real magic (or science) behind the addictiveness of Brawl Stars lies in its clever use of psychological principles. The game capitalises on the dopamine effect: each match is short and often ends with some form of reward, be it trophies, new ranks or Brawl Boxes. These quick, small bursts of dopamine are perfectly timed to keep players coming back for more. In addition, the “Variable Ratio Schedule” reward system, where rewards are given out in an unpredictable pattern, provides constant excitement and the urge to play another round.
Brawl Stars” has taken a firm place in pop culture, not least because of the active involvement of fans in the design of the game. Supercell’s developers regularly interact with their community, taking on board feedback and adapting the game accordingly. This interactive relationship between developers and players contributes significantly to the game’s continued popularity and relevance.
“Brawl Stars” is more than just another mobile game. It is a prime example of how modern games are developed, marketed and monetised, and it shows how profoundly games can influence modern culture. Whether you’re an avid Brawler yourself or just observing the phenomenon from afar, one thing is certain: “Brawl Stars” has found the formula for an engaging and profitable game that will keep both players and academics busy for a long time to come.
