Clash Of Clans has featured Clan Wars since 2014, and ever since then the mode’s matchmaking system has received constant tweaks to keep up with the ever-evolving meta. In a new Supercell blog post, the developer outlined how an upcoming update will drastically alter search results for so-called engineered bases. Before getting to the meaty analysis, let’s take a look at the most important part of the post.
“We wanted to share with you that we are making improvements to how the algorithm functions in order to address ‘engineered bases’ in the matchmaking feature. This new functionality will take more into account as far as ‘total weight’ is concerned with regards to both defense and offense. What this means for you is that your Clan will be more evenly matched against other Clans that have similar builds.
“One of the challenges in creating a matchmaking system is to allow players to retain their creativity in their base design and play style. We wanted to make sure that your strategies are not invalidated; just more evenly matched against others who share your play style. Our improved algorithm is an evolutionary step in making sure Clans will be matched more frequently against opponents of equivalent difficulty. Furthermore, we have also built in a certain degree of flexibility into the new system that allows us to fine tune the matchmaking weights as needed. This will allow us to monitor the matchmaking, make changes if we feel the weights are either too heavy or not heavy enough.”
There’s a lot to digest here, but not a whole lot of explanation. For those unaware of what the engineered bases problem is, the strategy involves exploiting the current matchmaking system by leveling up offensive troops to the maximum level while keeping defense at minimum. As a result, these engineered players are matched with low-level opponents they can three-star without much fuss. Because they’re leveled up in other regards, however, they’re also given access to higher Town Hall levels too.
While it’s not overtly said in the post, what’s implied here is that certain troops will be given heavier weights and bases with similar weight totals will be matched. Essentially, it would mean that, instead of forcing engineered players out of their strategy, those who play that way will simply be matched with other engineered bases. Extra flexibility comes from the fact that matchmaking seems to be more focused on individual troops than anything else. As the meta changes, Supercell should have greater control over the weight of each troop and how it contributes to the base total.
Allowing players to keep their existing strategies is probably the best solution Supercell could possibly offer. Especially considering the backlash against new additions like Town Hall 11 and the Builder Hall, it’s clear this game’s hardcore community isn’t a fan of disruptive change. No release window has been offered for the update, but Supercell insists it’s coming “soon.”
Clash Of Clans is available now on Android and iOS.
Can Clan Wars matchmaking truly be refined in a way that keeps engineered bases viable? Will this change make Clash Of Clans better? Tell us in the comments section!
