Why We Love Brawl Stars: The Science Behind the Game

Brawl Stars is a fast-paced, multiplayer action game developed by the authors of other famous mobile apps, such as Clash of Clans and Clash Royale. It is mobile-optimized and involves gameplay elements from MOBA, battle royale, and team-based shooter genres, providing the player with the possibility of a wide range of experience and action without limitations.

Jay Sangtani

11/25/20245 min read

Origin and Mission of Brawl Stars

Brawl Stars is developed by the Finnish mobile game development company Supercell, which is also behind other major game hits like Clash of Clans, Clash Royale, and Hay Day. The company’s history traces back to its formation by founder Ilkka Paananen, who established the company in 2010. While Paananen serves as the CEO of the company, a passionate group internally at Supercell led the design of Brawl Stars.

Mission in Developing Brawl Stars

The motivation behind creating Brawl Stars aligns perfectly with Supercell's mission: to make simple, accessible, and highly engaging multiplayer games for mobile platforms. Here's why they made this game:

Accessible to Everyone

The developers wanted to create a game that anyone could enjoy, regardless of their skill level. Aimed at casual gamers, the controls are simple to grasp, and the short matches make it just as appealing for experienced players.

Focus on Multiplayer Fun

Supercell aimed to create a game that fosters social interaction. Brawl Stars encourages teamwork and competition, allowing players to team up with others worldwide or compete against people globally.

Variety in Gameplay

Unlike their previous games, such as Clash of Clans (strategy) or Clash Royale (dueling), Brawl Stars offers a completely different experience—fast-paced, action-packed, with a variety of game modes and characters to choose from.

Sustained Activity

Brawl Stars was designed to provide long-term value through constant updates, new brawlers, and seasonal events that keep the game feeling fresh for players.

Exploring Experimentation and Innovation

Supercell wanted to experiment with new genres and game mechanics. Brawl Stars blends elements of battle royale, MOBA, and team-based shooters, all packed into one mobile game.

Ilkka Paananen's Philosophy

Supercell’s founding force, Ilkka Paananen, advocates for a "team-first" approach. The development teams, called "cells," have a high level of autonomy, allowing them to innovate freely. This structure results in games like Brawl Stars, which come from passionate developers with creative freedom.

Why We Love Brawl Stars: The Science Behind the Game

Mobile games have become a necessary part of our daily activities, offering entertainment on the go. Brawl Stars is among the most fascinating and addictive multiplayer games available. Developed by Supercell, it brings a unique gaming experience with its distinct mechanics, an ever-growing pool of characters, and a lively community. It’s no wonder the game has won the hearts of millions worldwide, including here in India. But what exactly makes Brawl Stars so special? Let’s explore the science and psychology behind its success, along with the features that keep us coming back for more.

1. Quick Wins and the Power of Rewards

Human psychology plays a big role in the popularity of games like Brawl Stars. The thrill of winning and collecting rewards keeps us engaged, thanks to how it affects our brain chemistry.

  • Short and Thrilling Matches: Each game lasts only 2–3 minutes, which makes it perfect for quick entertainment during a busy day. This format encourages us to come back for "just one more game."

  • Reward System: Winning matches grants you trophies, coins, and progress on the Brawl Pass. These rewards trigger the release of dopamine, a chemical in the brain associated with happiness and motivation. This cycle of playing and earning rewards keeps us hooked for hours.

2. Appeal of Uniqueness through Brawlers

Another major reason we love Brawl Stars is the diverse roster of over 60 brawlers, each with unique abilities, personalities, and looks.

  • Variety of Playstyles:

    • Tanks: These are high-health brawlers that soak up damage and protect teammates, like El Primo and Frank.

    • Damage Dealers: Characters like Bea and Crow deal high damage but need good positioning to succeed.

    • Support: Brawlers like Pam and Byron heal teammates or provide other utility.

  • Customization:
    Players can unlock skins, gadgets, and star powers, allowing them to personalize their brawlers. This level of customization helps create a personal connection between the player and their favorite brawler.

3. Endless Variety with Game Modes

Brawl Stars keeps things fresh with a variety of game modes. Here’s a look at some core modes:

  • Core Modes:

    • Gem Grab: A strategic 3v3 mode where teams fight to collect and hold 10 gems to win.

    • Showdown: A solo or duo survival mode where players fight to be the last one standing in a shrinking arena.

    • Brawl Ball: A soccer-inspired mode where teamwork and strategy are key.

    • Heist: Attackers try to breach the enemy safe, while defenders protect their own.

  • Special Events:

    • Boss Fight: Teams battle against a powerful boss AI.

    • Big Game: A 5v1 mode where one player becomes the "Big Boss" and tries to defeat everyone else.

    • Robo Rumble: Players defend a safe from waves of attacking robots.

The frequent rotation of modes ensures players never get bored.

4. The Excitement of Seasons and Updates

One of the key reasons Brawl Stars stays popular is its constant updates and seasonal content. Supercell regularly introduces new features, brawlers, and themes to keep the game fresh and exciting.

  • Seasonal Themes:
    Each season of the Brawl Pass comes with a unique theme:

    • Starr Force: A space-themed season featuring Colonel Ruffs.

    • Deep Sea Brawl: Introduced underwater-themed brawlers like Otis and new skins.

    • Wild West Brawl: Featured cowboy-style brawlers and maps.

  • New Brawlers and Features:

    • Sam: A rugged brawler with explosive punches, which became a fan favorite.

    • Mandy: A long-range brawler introduced in the Candyland theme.

Updates bring not only new content but also gameplay improvements, including map editors, balance changes, and better matchmaking.

5. Social Fun: Playing Together

Brawl Stars also knows that gaming is more fun when you play with friends. Its social features add another layer of enjoyment.

  • Team Play:
    Playing with friends in modes like Gem Grab or Brawl Ball makes the game more enjoyable. Coordinating attacks and sharing victories with friends enhances the experience.

  • Clubs and Communities:
    Players can join a club, chat with fellow members, share tips, and participate in club leagues. It fosters a sense of belonging and teamwork.

  • Friendship Rewards:
    The game rewards players for teaming up with friends, making social gaming even more rewarding.

6. Competitive Spirit and Esports

For those who love competition, Brawl Stars offers many ways to show off skills.

  • Power League:
    A ranked mode where players compete to climb the leaderboard and earn exclusive rewards.

  • Esports Tournaments:
    Events like the Brawl Stars Championship bring the best players together, motivating casual players to improve their skills.

  • Seasonal Resets:
    At the end of each season, trophies are partially reset, ensuring the competition remains fresh and fair.

7. India’s Love for Brawl Stars

Brawl Stars has a special place in the hearts of Indian gamers.

  • Affordable Access:
    Thanks to affordable mobile data and smartphones, the game is accessible to many players in India.

  • Short Matches:
    The quick match durations fit perfectly into busy Indian lifestyles, allowing players to enjoy a game during breaks or commutes.

  • Growing Community:
    Indian content creators, streamers, and tournaments have built a lively community, making the game even more engaging for Indian players.

8. The Role of Sound and Design

The design of Brawl Stars is another key factor in its success.

  • Bright and Colorful Graphics:
    The vibrant visuals appeal to players of all ages, adding to the overall charm.

  • Sound Effects and Music:
    The upbeat background music and satisfying sound effects make every victory feel epic.

9. Progression Systems: Always Something to Achieve

Brawl Stars uses clever progression systems to keep players engaged:

  • Trophy Road: Unlock new brawlers, rewards, and modes by earning trophies.

  • Brawl Pass: A seasonal progression system that offers exclusive rewards for completing quests.

  • Upgrades: Collecting power points and coins to upgrade brawlers provides a sense of growth and achievement.

Conclusion

Brawl Stars isn’t just a game; it’s a masterpiece of design, psychology, and community building. Quick matches, unique brawlers, social features, and regular updates ensure that there is always something new to enjoy. Whether you love the fast-paced gameplay, the excitement of unlocking new brawlers, or the joy of playing with friends, Brawl Stars

truly has something for everyone. So, the next time you play, remember—you're not just playing a game, you're joining a global phenomenon!