
According to player experiences, spending players dominate PvP, especially with the introduction of Heroes and Level 16 cards. Many users note that the progression gap is so pronounced that free players often find themselves outmatched in ranked matches, leading to frustration.
Veterans of the game note that while some content is available through the Free Pass, the most powerful cards and upgrades are locked behind the Diamond Pass. Players report that the best resources and new mechanics are primarily accessible through paid tiers, limiting free players' competitive options.
How aggressively the game pushes players to spend money to progress
Forum discussions suggest that while the Free Pass has improved, reaching Level 16 or acquiring multiple Heroes as a free player requires a significant time investment, often taking months of grinding. Players indicate that the grind feels deliberate to encourage spending.
Many users indicate that the ability to purchase cards directly with Gems allows paying players to skip the lengthy grind for powerful upgrades. The cost of acquiring new Heroes and maxing cards is steep, making it clear that spending can accelerate progression dramatically.
Players report that while some offers are time-limited, the core battle pass system provides ongoing access to content. However, community feedback suggests that missing out on certain tiers of the Diamond Pass can lead to a sense of urgency to spend.
Fairness and transparency of the monetization practices
According to community feedback, the game features Lucky Chests with low drop rates for valuable items, creating a gacha-like experience. Players note that the RNG mechanics can lead to frustration, especially when seeking specific cards or upgrades.
Players report that while the recent updates have streamlined the economy, confusion still exists around the value of Gems and their conversion rates. Community sentiment indicates that the pricing structure can be opaque, particularly for new players.
According to player reports, while the game offers a range of spending options, maintaining competitiveness can become costly. Many users suggest that to stay relevant, players might need to spend upwards of $30 monthly, especially with new content releases.
Our assessment of Clash Royale is based on the following publicly available sources:
Disclaimer: The P2W analysis for Clash Royale represents our editorial opinion based on publicly available information and community feedback as of January 2026. Game monetization systems may change over time. We encourage players to research current in-game purchases before making decisions. This analysis is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered definitive or exhaustive.
If you believe any information is inaccurate or outdated, please contact us with corrections.