View source for Clash Royale meta decks

This page describes the strategies, hints and tips of meta decks in [[Clash Royale]].

'''Meta decks''' are those decks played by many top 200 players, and that show consistent win rates against several deck archetypes.

== '''royalrecruits''' Hogs '''fireball''' bait ==

{| class="wikitable" width="100%"
|-
! width=520px | Meta deck - royal recruits hogs fireball bait
| rowspan=2 |
* Three variants using the same base (see [https://www.deckshop.pro/deck/list?containing='''royalrecruits'''-'''royalhogs'''-'''flyingmachine'''-'''zappies'''-'''goblincage'''-'''fireball'''-barbarianbarrel Deckshop.pro])
|-
|
[[File:cr-electrospirit.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-royalrecruits.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-royalhogs.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-flyingmachine.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-zappies.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-goblincage.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-fireball.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-barbarianbarrel.png|60px]]<br/>
[[File:cr-goldenknight.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-royalrecruits.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-royalhogs.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-flyingmachine.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-zappies.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-goblincage.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-fireball.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-barbarianbarrel.png|60px]]<br/>
[[File:cr-motherwitch.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-royalrecruits.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-royalhogs.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-flyingmachine.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-zappies.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-goblincage.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-fireball.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-barbarianbarrel.png|60px]]<br/>
|}

=== Base strategy ===
* Deck containing many '''fireball''' bait cards. Always play them to '''AVOID giving opp '''fireball''' value'''.
:* Play machine in the middle (so that P tower can't be hit).
:* Split hogs.
* Usually play hogs after recruits, so that they tank for the hogs.
:* All '''fireball''' bait. Goal is to never give any value to opp '''fireball''', like always play '''flyingmachine''' in the middle (to avoid damage on towers). Then also always split troops on both lanes (eg. when recruits are tanking for the hogs).

== 2.6 '''hogrider''' cycle deck ==

{| class="wikitable" width="100%"
|-
! width=520px | Meta deck - 2.6 hog cycle deck
| rowspan=2 |
* Most stable archetype in the whole game. 
* Started playing with this deck during 2nd Clan War season. Very difficult to play but would help better understand / master the game.
* Guides:
:* '''{{red|new}}''' [https://clash.world/deck-building/hog-cycle-guide/ A comprehensive Guide to 2.6 Hog Cycle]
::* Include link to [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1zX0ZxkwfWdwybWr5fGfbVCgwEic-pMbLFVine5tBe_8/edit# Hog 2.6: the deck with the potential to outplay]
::* ... and to [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1l76soabb7TU2NTF5vwU57k4_3atKf91a2eJZBIC-dpM/edit#heading=h.vdjewzdzozh6 Hog 2.6 Match-up guide]       
::* Link to [https://discord.gg/fXUqFYx Discord 2.6 Masters]
:* '''{{red|new}}''' [https://www.reddit.com/r/ClashRoyale/comments/5wdea4/strategy_26_hog_cycle_most_informative_and/ 2.6 '''hogrider''' Cycle - Most Informative and In-Depth Guide to the Most Popular '''hogrider''' Cycle Deck ('''electrowizard''' 2016 - reddit.com)]
:* '''{{red|new}}''' [https://www.gamestroops.com/clash-royale-2-6-'''hogrider'''-log-deck-2-6-'''hogrider'''-cycle-deck/ Clash Royale-2.6 '''hogrider''' log Deck In-Depth Guide to the Most Popular '''hogrider''' Cycle Deck (Kpid 2017 - gamestroops.com)]
:* '''{{red|new}}''' [https://hypixel.net/threads/guide-in-depth-2-6-'''hogrider'''-cycle-guide.2901480/ IN DEPTH 2.6 '''hogrider''' Cycle Guide (Klerx69 2020 - Hypixel.net)]
* Youtube:
:* [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPKaY_SMlcT2cTyscSgpofA YersonCz YouTube channel]
:* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sRusdOL_LjM 2.6 '''hogrider''' CYCLE GOD vs WORLD'S TOP PROS! (Strategy Guide, Clash With Ash - youtube.com) ], gameplay from '''YersonCz'''
:* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BhuU4UzVYSM BEST 2.6 '''hogrider''' CYCLE GAMEPLAY EVER! 7,100+ TROPHIES (Clash With Ash 2019 - youtube.com)], gameplay from '''LucasXGamer''', more [https://statsroyale.com/guides/5ccf4ebc22c92d1fe5295176 explanations here].
:* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OduQCy3Bi5k 50 tips for 2.6 '''hogrider''' cycle you NEED to know - Clash Royale - TheWizCR - youtube.com] &mdash; a MUST-KNOW
:* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GZxPrjxunxA 2.6 '''hogrider''' PRO TIPS - OYASSUU - youtube.com]
;Tower damage
* (level 14) fb+log: 351 hp, log+fb+log: 428, fb+log+fb: 625
|-
|
[[File:cr-hogrider.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-musketeer.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-icegolem.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-icespirit.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-skeletons.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-cannon.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-fireball.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-thelog.png|60px]]
|}

=== Base strategy ===

* General goals:
:* '''distract all units''',
:* '''avoid taking any damage on the towers''', and 
:* '''space out key defensive units''' (to avoid giving spell value).
:* '''never be too low in elixir''' (to defend rapidly with many units at once).
:* '''cycle with purpose''' (eg. if playing defense, play '''musketeer''' BEFORE '''hogrider''', so that to get back to '''musketeer''' first to get better defense).
* General tips [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bv83Bnm3hvM]
:* Tip 1: Push smarter but not harder (''eg. '''hogrider''' + '''golem''')
:* Tip 2: Cycle with purpose (''eg. cycle for chiping with spells, or cycle to prepare push...'')
:* Tip 3: Protect your '''musketeer''' (''use '''skeletons''', '''icespirit''', '''cannon''').
* Learn to get most value from 1-elixir units ('''skeletons''', '''icespirit''').
* Know spell cycle magic number:
:* '''6 cards''' needed to play 3 spells ('''fireball''' (4)-log (2)-'''icegolem''' (2)-'''icespirit''' (1)-'''skeletons''' (1)-'''fireball''' (4)''') and score '''663 (lvl 14) / 501 (lvl 11)''' damage on tower.

Early stage gameplan (&lt;2 min):
* Wait a 5 or 10 seconds to watch for opp aggressive move. If none, play '''icespirit''' or '''hogrider''' at the bridge.
* DO NOT play '''musketeer''' or '''cannon''' until you know ennemy's deck.
* Don't play '''hogrider''' until having '''cannon''' in the hand. Cycle cheap cards as necessary first.

Late stage gameplan:
* Focus on defense if opp has one tower down.
* Otherwise, if difficult to go through, start cycling spells, while pressuring with '''hogrider''' when possible (eg. by kiting opp troops).

=== Card guide ===
How to use them:
* Save '''cannon''', '''musketeer''' and '''fireball''' in response to OPP's moves.
* '''hogrider''' main win condition. 
:* Goal is to cycle cheap cards rapidly to launch frequent ''naked'' '''hogrider''' attacks (in 1x time).
:* Can play it when opp plays his own win condition to apply pressure, or when OPP is vulnerable (no counters, low on elixir).
:* If OPP has too many hog counters, can use '''fireball''' instead.
:* Can push the '''icegolem'''. Do this when cycling fast, to still keep value of '''golem'''.
:* '''kite''' away attacking troops, very useful to '''split / separate''' an attack.
:* In end game, use '''prediction spell''' to get more value.
* '''icespirit''': to slow down '''balloon''' or '''hogrider''', avoid them to have a hit against tower or '''cannon'''. '''Reset''' attacks (but not '''sparky'''), so '''icespirit''' + '''icegolem''' are very interesting to re-aggro an attacking opponent. ALWAYS play spirit first! (to '''freeze''' opponent and reduce damage)
* '''thelog''': also defensively, to push forward units, to protect eg. '''musketeer''' against '''pekka'''/'''prince''' or '''cannon''' against '''hogrider'''. '''Reset''' attacks (charge).
* '''icegolem''': will also kill some units ('''skeletons''') and slow them down on death.

Where to place them:
:* '''skeletons''':
::* '''1-3'''  (eg. very effective against '''elitebarbarians''').
:* '''cannon''': 
::* '''3-3''' or '''3-2''' (Ouahleouff [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xjn_C7bXGdE]) for '''cannon'''.
::* '''4-3''' against '''golem'''
::* '''4-2''' or '''3-2''' against '''hogrider''' (3-3 or even 2-3 will NOT aggro!).
:* '''musketeer''':
::* '''7-3''', then '''icespirit''' at 3-3 to attract troops from bridge (and get defense from both towers).

=== Tower activation methods ===
* Against '''megaknight''', activation: 
:* '''hogrider''' at 2-4 when '''megaknight''' crosses the bridge, then after '''megaknight''' jumps '''icespirit''' at 8-3 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cwkfd1b_RyQ]
:* '''skeletons''' at 4-3 (when '''megaknight''' is at   1+2), then when '''megaknight''' jumps '''icespirit''' at 8-4 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KBUW6Xcft-c]
:* '''skeletons''' at 4-4 (when '''megaknight''' is at 1+2), then when '''megaknight''' jumps '''icespirit''' at 7-4 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jiYJaz5USc0] (here '''megaknight''' was coming from middle).
:* '''cannon''' at 4-2, then '''icespirit''' at 9-4 [https://youtu.be/KBUW6Xcft-c?t=38]
:* '''cannon''' at 4-3, and '''icegolem''' at 1-4 (other lane), then '''skeletons''' at 9-4 when '''cannon''' is down [https://youtu.be/U7RjBcePmNI?t=81].
:* More activation by YersonCz [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_axaPb4brgU here].
* Against 2.6:
:* On '''hogrider''' alone, '''cannon''' at 4-2.
:* Against '''musketeer''', '''cannon''' at 5-2, so that it is not sniped by '''musketeer'''. Try to protect '''cannon''' with skel, ice or '''golem'''.
:* Log the '''icegolem'''.
* '''firecracker''':
:* '''cannon''' at 4-2 (at least when she comes from the middle). To confirm.
* '''bandit''': '''cannon''' at 4-2 (must be damaged already for bandit to kill it on dash), then '''icespirit''' 8-4 when bandit is dashing.
* '''mortar''' at river: '''skeletons''' right in from of K tower and aligned with '''mortar''', or the left/right neighbour square, when '''mortar''' timer is at 3/4.

=== Match-up guide ===

* against '''lavahound'''+'''balloon''':
:* On lava: '''hogrider''' opposite lane always (if needed, cycle aggressively, like with spirit or '''golem''' at bridge).
:* Against 1st '''balloon''': '''cannon''' at 4-1, then cycle (log on tower, '''golem''' 7+4 to be under lava when he pops, spirit under '''balloon''' to slow it down a bit) and then 2nd '''cannon''' at 7-3 to activate K tower.
:* Against '''balloon''' at 0+4: '''cannon''' at 0-2, then '''fireball''' to push back '''balloon''', trying to hit puppies as well.
:* Against ground troops: '''skeletons''' at 0-4.
* against lavaminer:
:* Against '''minipekka''': '''icegolem''' at 4-3, or '''skeletons''' at 0-4!!!
:* Against '''miner''': '''cannon''' at 4+5!!!, and '''icespirit'''.
:* Against '''babydragon''': '''cannon''' to distract, then '''icespirit'''.
:* On '''lavahound''': '''icegolem''' at 0+3, then '''hogrider''' at 0+3 also, then '''skeletons'''at 0+2 opposite lane ('''skeletons''' are for '''minipekka''' distraction)
* On single tower: when opp tower is around 600, time to cycle '''fireball''' and/or '''musketeer'''.
* Against '''hogrider'''-'''earthquake''':
:* when '''minipekka''' is out of hand: '''hogrider''' at bridge.
:* we can force '''minipekka''' play when our '''musketeer''' is full health, we protect her with '''icegolem'''. This will allow later to play '''hogrider'''.
* King activation against Marcher:
:* '''icespirit''' at 7-2 when Marcher is finishing crossing bridge, then immediately '''thelog''' at 1+4 to push Marcher a bit [https://youtu.be/sRusdOL_LjM?t=1276].
* Against '''mortar'''-'''hogrider''':
:* K tower activation on '''mortar''': when '''mortar''' at 0-2, play '''skeletons''' at 9-3 (right in front, against k tower edge).
:* Against '''mortar''': '''icespirit''' 5-4 (ie. opposite lane), then '''icegolem''' 5-4 again.
:* Against '''mortar''' at border: '''musketeer''' at 3-x can shoot '''mortar'''.
:* Against naked horde: only '''icegolem''' or kite with '''hogrider'''. '''icespirit''' also good to weaken them.
* Against '''sparky''':
:* '''cannon''' played middle to defend the tank, then '''icespirit''', '''skeletons''' and '''thelog''' to distract the '''sparky''', and also defend the '''musketeer'''.
:* On '''sparky''' play, match with '''icegolem''' same lane.
* Against '''elixirgolem'''-healer-'''nightwitch''':
:* '''icegolem''' behind K tower, then when it reaches P tower upper edge, '''musketeer''' at corner. then '''cannon''' at 0-3 to distract '''golem'''. Then '''fireball''' when all troop together (on '''golem''', electrodrag...). Then '''thelog''' to push '''nightwitch''', and finally '''icegolem''' again opposite lane to kite '''witch''' away, and finally '''hogrider''' to pull ennemy further back.
:* '''icespirit''' at bridge regularly to chip more damage.


* General advice: NEVER play '''cannon''' or '''musketeer''' first because opponent may react. Only play these cards in reaction to opponent's play.
* Against '''golem''': 
:* Play aggressive first 2 minutes (go with '''icegolem''', pushed by '''hogrider''', covered by '''musketeer'''). This takes tower if undefended.
:* Then defend when one tower down.
:* '''cannon''' at 3-3 as defense.
* Against '''hogrider''': '''cannon''' at 1-2, no damage taken; at 3-2, no damage taken either. at 2-2, also good.
* Against '''miner''': '''cannon''' at 5-0 or even 6-0, to deal with the '''miner'''. Alternatively, '''icespirit''' on the '''miner''', then '''icegolem''' or even (better?) '''skeletons''' to aggro the '''miner'''!

; Against logbait
* Don't always keep '''thelog''' for the '''goblinbarrel'''. Can also eg. '''thelog''' the '''princess''', or to support '''hogrider''' push. 
* Make sure however to have either '''fireball''', or '''musketeer''' (and elixir) available to defend.

==== hogrider 2.6 ====
;From my gameplay
* Play '''cannon''' at 2-2 (to avoid '''fireball''' value on both tower and cannon), or any other location w/o value for '''fireball'''. Ideally also defend with '''skeletons''' but be careful if OPP has the '''log''' in hand.
* Play '''fireball''' on the '''musketeer''' AND tower, and also '''log''' (to kill her).
* Better play '''skeletons''' and '''icespirit''', than '''icegolem''', in order to cycle faster, and have '''icespirit''' chip damage. '''icegolem''' is ok to tank damage from the spirit.
;From Boss CR [https://youtu.be/hn0-iS2DyXM?t=772]
* '''fireball''' the '''musketeer''' if played next to tower.
* Don't play own '''musketeer''' near tower if opp has '''fireball''' in cycle (otherwise ok to play deep as elixir investment).
* Keep '''cannon''' against '''hogrider''' (never play it high, but 4-2 to avoid sniping)
* If opp has '''cannon''' in hand, always play '''hogrider''' with '''icegolem''' in the front, and play '''musketeer''' at river to snipe the '''cannon'''.
* Focus on micro interaction to save elixir.
* When getting good lead, play chill and avoid making huge mistake.

==== lumberloon ====
* Play '''icegolem''' 3-4 to distract the '''lumberjack''' and make him move away, then '''musketeer''' 6+5 on the '''balloon'''. Complete with either '''icespirit''' or '''cannon''' [https://youtu.be/wJJyyXRzxW8?t=245].
:* If '''balloon''' is sent on the other lane, then '''cannon''' 4-2 (from other lane pov) and '''icespirit''' for perfect defense.
* If no '''icegolem''', '''skeletons''' 0-4, then ideally '''icegolem'''4-4.

==== mortar ====
* If '''mortar''' at river, '''cannon''' 1-sq distance from river.

==== tornado ====
* Play '''skeletons''' a bit after '''hogrider''' so that hog tanks for the skeletons who can then make 500+ damage to the tower.

==== tesla ====
* Play '''icegolem''' 0+2, then 1 sec later '''hogrider''' 0+3.
:* Can also play '''musketeer''' 0-4 [https://youtu.be/wJJyyXRzxW8?t=126].

==== lightning + golem ====
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9koN1cNoXU4 Tutorial - Hog Cycle]
* Always be aggressive, on opposite lane of '''golem''', or the weakest tower.
* Kite and defend with musketeer.
* Attract troop to king tower for activation.
* Typical defense is '''cannon''' 4-3, then '''musketeer''' 9+5 when '''golem''' is entering the bridge.
* To counter '''lightning''', when we have '''cannon''' + '''musketeer''' on the board, play a defensive '''icegolem''' + '''hogriger''' to act as shield [https://youtu.be/9koN1cNoXU4?t=150].

Note:
* '''skeletons''' have the highest DPS. Try to play them on the '''golem''' and defend them with '''icegolem'''.
* '''musketeer''' is only anti-air card. If there is a '''babydragon''', make sure it doesn't target the '''musketeer''' (or '''icespirit''' it). Also typically '''fireball''' it along with another troop(s), so that it is shot faster by the '''musketeer'''.

==== rage (hogrider, balloon) ====
* tips from discord2.6-help (matchup: '''hogrider''', '''balloon''', '''princess''', '''minionhorde''', '''wizard''', '''barbarians''', '''skeletonarmy''', '''rage'''):
:* Don't send hog, save elixir.
:* '''hogrider''' + '''balloon''' is weird. Usually save the '''cannon''' for the '''hogrider'''. Unless they have a tank for the '''balloon'''.
:* React faster.
:* If balloon is tanked, use '''icegolem''', or even cycle card, to block the tank at the bridge, then have '''musketeer''' to take out the '''balloon'''.

==== log bait ====
* If opp has '''thelog''', attack opposite lane (otherwise we are giving value to opponent).
* Several ways to negate '''goblinbarrel''':
:* '''thelog''' or '''fireball'''
:* a CENTRE '''cannon''' (or '''musketeer'''), a '''icespirit''' to tank and freeze OUTER goblin, and '''skeletons''' to take out BOTTOM goblin.
:* Or same, but vice-versa for '''icespirit''' / '''skeletons'''
:* a DEEP barrel (without tank) can be negated with '''icespirit''' alone
* Make sure to never leave the field empty (to distract '''princess'''). In single elixir time, it's ok to do this only when opponent has '''princess''' in the hand.
* Keep '''thelog''' for the barrel. However it's ok to log if positive elixir trade (eg. two loggable troops), or to support a '''hogridder''' push.
:* In that case, keep the '''fireball''' to defend a barrel (if tanked)
* If opponent has '''rocket''', don't do '''hogrider+icegolem''' push.
* If opponent plays '''rocket''' on '''hogrider''', punish with playing '''musketeer''' in the back.
* Main defense is '''golem''' + '''musketeer''' (or '''cannon''').
* Against BUiLDING, the solution is to OUTCYCLE:
:* Play '''hogrider''', e.g. on opposite lane, to make sure building will be out of the way.
:* Cycle our card: '''icespirit''', '''skeletons''', '''thelog''', '''icegolem''' (last, so that to make a '''icegolem+hogrider''' push)
:* Don't play '''fireball''' or '''musketeer''' during the outcycle. If needed, play them BEFORE or AFTER the first '''hogrider'''.
:* A good starting point is when opponent plays their '''goblinbarrel''': play the 1st '''hogrider''' then '''thelog'''.

;Tips from WizCR [https://www.youtube.com/shorts/RYFfwhEpsrc]
* If '''inferno''' out of cycle, play '''icegolem''' 0+4, then '''hogrider''' 1+5 1sec after. '''icegolem''' will tank for the hog even if opponent '''rocket'''.
* Save '''thelog''' for '''goblinbarrel''' (unless given big value, but then keep '''fireball''' for the barrel).
* PUNISH if OPP '''rocket''' for nothing (i.e. on tower only).
* if juke '''goblinbarrel''' (at 12+2), play '''icespirit''' 10+1 for perfect defense.

==== Wotop deck (royal hogs, royal recruits, flying machine, zappies) ====
;Advices from barte24 (clan family Presspinpintes)
* Keep '''fireball''' for the '''royalhogs'''.
* Against '''royalrecruits''', use '''cannon''', '''icegolem''' and '''icespirit''' (or '''thelog''' or '''musketeer''').
* When push with '''hogrider''', pre-shoot with '''thelog''' (if we know it has '''royalrecruits''' in the hand).
* Against '''flyingmachine''', defend with '''icegolem''' next to tower (tower will shoot it down).
:* Alternatively, '''fireball''' the '''flyingmachine''', and use '''cannon + skeletons''' against the '''royalhogs'''. Since we cycle very fast, there should be no problem there.

=== reddit guide notes (to be merged) ===
;Deck overview
* '''hogrider''': best win condition.
* '''musketeer''': only defense card. card of placement. save it for defense only, but can be turned into offense in counterpush. Can '''snipe''' at building 3 tiles from river!
* '''icegolem''': tank, distract, kite units.
* '''skeletons''': 1st cycle card.  high DPS, kite, distract, pull enemy units.
* '''icespirit''': 2nd cycle card. offense / defense. '''don't let your spirit die!'''
* '''cannon''': main defense against tanks.
* '''fireball''': instant damage, offense and defense, allow prediction.
* log: small swarm units.

;Strengthes / Weaknesses
* '''fireball''' + log to remove some '''hogrider''' counter ('''barbarians''', '''cannon''', '''tombstone''', '''skeletonarmy''').
* '''pig push''' to bypass buildings at 4-3 placement
* Weak against '''bowler''' / '''infernotower'''.
* Weak against deck with 2 hard counters for the '''hogrider'''.
* Weak to beatdown decks with big push, to '''graveyard''' decks, to '''lavahound''' decks.

;General gameplan
* Play frequent '''hogrider''' pushes, and use chep cycling cards to out cycle opp's defense.
* Best start is '''hogrider''' + '''icegolem''' ('''golem''' can kill nearby '''skeletons''' on death). '''hogrider''' + '''icespirit''' or '''hogrider''' + '''skeletons''' also good. If '''hogrider''' not in cycle nor next, play '''musketeer''' to bank your elixir (useful if eg. '''hogrider''' is last).
* Before 2x elixir: cycle '''hogrider''' + X''' pushes (the three above), and use '''musketeer''' and '''cannon''' to defend. Use fast cycle card to out cycle opponent, and keep in mind opp's '''hogrider''' counters (eg. if '''skeletonarmy''', have log in rotation before '''hogrider''' push).
* 2x elixir: can be more aggressive. Here really try to outcycle opponent with cheap cards. If cannot push, then cycle spells instead.

;Basic Offense
* The three pushes: '''hogrider''' + '''icegolem''' (most effective in general), '''hogrider''' + '''icespirit''' and '''hogrider''' + '''skeletons''' (here '''hogrider''' is the tank, and '''skeletons''' can shieldthe back of the rider).
* In counterpush, '''musketeer''' comboed with '''hogrider''' (''I guess idea is to send rider early so that to tank for '''musketeer''').

;Advanced Offense - Outcycling
* Ideal rotation is '''musketeer''', '''skeletons''', '''icespirit''', '''icegolem'''. Best done in 2x elixir. 
* Don't overcommit. Don't try to outcycle two '''hogrider''' counters before 2x elixir.
* '''Keep in mind what '''hogrider''' counters the opponent has in rotation''', to cycle appropriately.

;Advanced Offense - Pig pushing
* Useful to bypass a building at 4-3 plant.
* '''icespirit''': '''icespirit''' at 0+4, then immediately '''hogrider''' same square.
* '''skeletons''': '''hogrider''' at 0+4, then immediately '''skeletons''' at 0+3.
* '''icegolem''': '''icegolem''' at 0+4, then immediately '''hogrider''' same square (NOT ideal because '''golem''' loses value here).
* '''musketeer''': '''musketeer''' at 0+4, then immediately '''hogrider''' same square.
* Don't hesitate to switch lane for pig push if say opponent has no '''hogrider''' counter in hand!

;Countering their counters
* '''infernotower'''
* '''cannon'''
* '''tombstone'''
* '''barbarians'''
* '''elitebarbarians'''
* '''bowler'''
MORE...


=== Tips ===
Tips from [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OduQCy3Bi5k 50 tips for 2.6 '''hogrider''' cycle you NEED to know - TheWizCR - youtube]
;ACTIVATION tips
* tip 05: '''megaknight''': ACTIVATION with '''skeletons''' at 4-3 when it reaches 2nd row, then '''icespirit''' at 7-4 in the middle of the jump (note: K tower takes quite some dmg)
* tip 06: '''balloon''' with '''lavahound''': ACTIVATION 1st '''cannon''' at 4-1, then 2nd '''cannon''' at 7-3 (close to K). Then '''musketeer''' at 11-1 to finish off.
:As a result always put '''cannon''' after lava connected on tower to allow this ACTIVATION.
* tip 11: '''electrospirit''': ACTIVATION place any troop at 11-0.
: ... or maybe also at 8-1?
* tip 24: '''firecracker''': ACTIVATION with '''icespirit''' at 6-2 when she crosses opp's river border.
: Also '''icegolem''' at 6-3 works.
* tip 25: '''magicarcher''': ACTIVATION with '''icespirit''' at 5-4 (or 4-4 [https://youtu.be/BOh_XS_1eaM?t=432] ) when archer middle/third bridge, then '''skeletons''' at 7-2, when archer shoots 2nd shot and moves.
* '''magicarcher''': ACTIVATION '''thelog''' 5+1, then asap '''skeletons''' 8-2 [https://youtu.be/BOh_XS_1eaM?t=461]
* tip 35: '''bowler''': ACTIVATION with '''cannon''' at 6-0 when '''bowler''' at our river border, then '''thelog''' at 2+4 when '''bowler''' on 3rd row and his outer foot up in the air and going to touch 4th row (perfect), ie. when (top of) his health bar is crossing mid bridge (better indication).
* tip 40: '''electrodragon''': ACTIVATION with any card at 11-0 when dragon's shadow fully on 3rd row / touching 4th row.
* tip 44: Juke '''goblinbarrel''' (played at 11+2): ACTIVATION with '''skeletons''' at 13-2 (right beneath k tower).
* tip 48: '''bowler''': ACTIVATION with '''icegolem''' at 2-4 when '''bowler''' crossing our river border, then '''skeletons''' 4-3 when '''bowler''' right above, then '''icespirit''' 6-3 when '''bowler''' again right above (perfect).
* tip 49: '''bandit''': ACTIVATION with '''hogrider''' at 1-4 when '''bandit''' third/middle bridge (or entering the bridge), then '''icespirit''' 8-4 when '''bandit''' hits the hogrider (ie. befor she enters 2-1 square, the median vertical between spirit and P tower).
;Other tips
* tip 00: '''wallbreakers''': '''skeletons''' at 3+2 (or 4+2). asap (perfect).
* tip 01: '''balloon''': '''fireball''' at 6+2 when '''balloon''' shadow touches blast circle (only explosion hits).
* tip 02: '''hogrider''' (0+4 or 1+5): '''cannon''' at 4-2 (perfect, both tower shoots).
* tip 03: '''bandit''': '''skeletons''' at 2-5 when she crosses our river border (perfect, both tower shoot).
* tip 04: '''minipekka''': '''skeletons''' at 3-4 when it crosses our river border (perfect).
* tip 07: '''megaknight''' [https://youtu.be/OduQCy3Bi5k?t=75]: '''hogrider''' at 0+4 when '''megaknight''' it reaches 3rd row.
  tip 08: :Usually play '''musketeer''' first at 9-3 when '''megaknight''' reaches bridge, then the '''hogrider''', then '''icespirit''' + '''icegolem''' (perfect)
* tip 09: '''minions''' (dropped at bridge): '''skeletons''' at 0-4 asap (perfect, both towers shoot)
* tip 10: '''furnace''': '''icespirit''' at 5-1 when first '''firespirit''' crosses our river border.
* tip 12: '''balloon''' at bridge: '''cannon''' at 4-2 asap (only explosion hits, both tower shoots).
* tip 13: '''cannoncart''': '''thelog''' then '''fireball''' when cart closes to opp tower (immobilizes).
* tip 14: '''hunter''': '''icespirit''' at 1-4 when he crosses our river border (perfect)
* tip 15: '''golem''' at bridge: '''cannon''' at 4-3 asap, then '''musketeer''' at 5+5 (centered on cannon). This is to avoid '''lightning''' value.
* tip 16: '''minipekka''': '''icegolem''' at 3-4 asap, ie. when it crosses opp's river border. (perfect)
* tip 17: '''musketeer''': '''skeletons''' at 0+2 when she is middle bridge.
* tip 18: '''speargoblins''': '''skeletons''' at 2+2 when they crosses our river border, allowing one goblin to connect (only one spear hit).
* tip 19: '''xbow''' (border, +1 river) then '''tesla''' at bridge: '''icegolem''' at 4-4 asap, then '''musketeer''' at 3+5 asap.
* tip 20: against '''tornado''': '''icegolem''' at 0+3, then shortly after '''hogrider''' same spot to avoid '''tornado'''.
* tip 21: Against any tank: '''cannon''' at 4-3.
* tip 22: '''electrowizard''': '''icespirit''' at 1-4 when '''wizard''' middle bridge.
* tip 23: '''elitebarbarians''': '''icegolem''' at 3-4 when they crosses opp's river border, then '''skeletons''' at 6-3 when they killed the '''golem''' (perfect).
* tip 26: Catch opp. off guard with '''musketeer''' + '''hogrider''' at 0+3.
* tip 27: '''ramrider''': '''cannon''' at 4-2 (perfect, both towers shoot).
* tip 28: '''lavahound'''+'''balloon''': '''cannon''' at 0+4 to have '''balloon''' come in front, then '''musketeer''' at 5-2.
* tip 29: Against '''ramrider''' in opp.'s hand: Add '''skeletons''' after '''hogrider''' jumped.
* tip 30: Against '''building''' played at 3-sq river: '''hogrider''' at 0+4, then '''musketeer''' at 0-3.
* tip 31: '''royaleghost''': '''skeletons''' at 3+2 when '''royalghost''' on 2nd row (to surround him) (one hit).
* tip 32: '''fisherman''': '''skeletons''' at 7+4 when '''fisherman''' middle bridge (perfect).
* tip 33: '''dartgoblin''': '''skeletons''' at 0+2 when goblin at opp's border (perfect).
* tip 34: '''fisherman''': '''icespirit''' at 5-4 when '''fisherman''' middle bridge (perfect).
* tip 36: '''magicarcher''': '''icespirit''' at 5-4 when archer middle/third bridge (perfect).
* tip 37: '''miner''': '''icespirit''' (typ. 10+4, best predict) then immediately '''skeletons''' on him.
* tip 38: '''sparky''': '''skeletons''' at 1+2 when '''sparky''' front is entering 2nd row (perfect, 2 skullies survive!)
* tip 39: '''cannoncart''': '''icespirit''' at 0-2 when cart front is touching our river border, then asap '''skeletons''' at 0+2 (perfect).
* tip 41: '''wallbreakers''' + '''miner''': '''cannon''' at 4+4 to still defend the '''miner'''.
* tip 42: '''golem''': '''cannon''' at 4-3 then '''skeletons''' at 1+2 when '''golem''' crossing our river border (one or two hits).
* tip 43: '''darkprince''': '''skeletons''' at 0-4 when princes crossing our river border, then '''icespirit''' when skullies are dead (perfect, both tower shoots).
* tip 45: '''giant''' + '''graveyard''': '''cannon''' at 5-0 to target '''skeletons''', then '''musketeer''' at 13+1, then '''thelog''' when many skullies (lose 1000hp at lvl11).
* tip 46: '''hogrider''' + '''earthquake''': '''cannon''' at 4-2, then '''icespirit''' on '''hogrider''' asap when '''earthquake'''.
* tip 47: '''royalgiant''' + '''earthquake''': '''cannon''' at 0-3 when RG is middle bridge (avoid '''earthquake'''), then asap '''musketeer''' at 4+5 (one hit).
* tip 50: '''sparky''' in 2x elixir: '''fireball''', '''thelog''', then cycle '''icespirit'''+'''golem'''+'''skeletons''', then '''fireball''', on tower for extra damage.

=== WizCR ===
;Graveyard [https://www.youtube.com/shorts/byvxCv2XErs]
* Against '''graveyard''' + '''valkyrie''': stop the valkyrie at the BRIDGE with '''icegolem''' at 0+2, then '''cannon''' at 4-0 for perfect defense.
* Against '''tornado''': play '''icegolem''' at 0+3, then shortly after '''hogrider''' at 0+3. This will prevent to activate the king tower.
* When building + tornado is out of hand: play naked '''hogrider'''.

=== Things I learned ===
* Before 2x: WHen playing a passive '''musketeer''', sending '''hogrider''' + '''golem''' at bridge is over-extend usually. I guess we should only do '''golem''', '''icespirit''', '''skeletons''' (after '''musketeer''' is tanking).
* When opp plays '''goblinbarrel''' and '''skeletonarmy''', use '''thelog''' for barrel, and '''fireball''' for '''skeletonarmy''' (in particular in 2x).
* '''log + '''fireball''' on '''witch''' looks over-extend...
* Usually dangerous to start with '''hogrider''' first play. Seems better to start with '''icespirit''' at bridge, or deep '''golem'''.
:* Then maybe better make a dual lane push, '''musketeer''' on one side and '''hogrider''' on the other, to avoid value from '''megaknight''' if opp plays it (oftentimes). However, better have '''cannon''' / '''golem''' in the hand to defend if '''hogrider''' is countered badly.
* Against '''giant''', better not go same lane. If possible, punish with '''hogrider''' on the other lane, and split opp. troops.
* (ouah) In push with eg. '''pekka''' + '''hogrider''', put '''cannon''' at 3-3 to attract '''hogrider''' in the middle, so that it is killed by both towers.
* Playing '''hogrider''' in the pocket may help in end game, especially against '''megaknight'''. Opp often replies with '''megaknight''' at bridge when our '''musketeer''' reaches it, so '''hogrider''' in the pocket may help distract, avoid giving value to '''megaknight''' and score damages.
* When doing '''hogrider''' + '''icegolem''' push, play '''hogrider''' first so that we have it back sooner.

=== YersonCz gameplay ===
Continue: [https://youtu.be/KxNBT9dDNiI?t=844]

* Start:
:* '''icespirit''' at the bridge.
:* '''thelog''' at the bridge (but what if opp has '''goblinbarrel'''?).
:* '''musketeer''' behind K tower.
:* '''hogrider''' at the bridge (0+4).
* Placement:
:* '''icegolem''': 7+4 against '''goblins'''. 7-0 against '''electrowizard'''.
:* '''musketeer''': 7-3. 
:* '''cannon''': 4-2 or 3-3 (better if opp plays poison)  
* General:
:* Protect '''musketeer''' and '''cannon''' with other troops.
:* When '''cannon''' and '''musketeer''' are firing, '''icespirit''' is even better defense thanks to freeze.
:* '''hogrider''' can also be used as a defense (eg. against '''megaknight''' or '''bandit''').
* Counter:
:* Against '''miner''': '''cannon''' 10+3. Also '''skeletons''' in addition.
:* Against '''wallbreakers''': 
::* '''icespirit''' 4+2 asap, then '''musketeer''' 5+3 asap.
::* Best response is '''thelog''' if fast enough to also hit tower.
:* Against '''bombtower''': wait it to be out of cycle, then send '''hogrider''' + '''icegolem''', then '''thelog''' behind. If opp plays tower again in the lane, hogrider should still put one hit.
:* Against '''sparky''' (played on our deep '''musketeer'''): '''icegolem''' 0+3 opposite lane, then '''hogrider''' 0+3. When our musketeer is 2-sq from bridge, '''icespirit''' 0+3 (ie. outer side of the bridge, and at that moment sparky should be reaching front of P tower). When sparky shoots on them, '''thelog''' at bridge.
:* Against '''minipekka''' on our '''icegolem+hogrider''' push: play '''skeletons''' beind K tower asap (but 14-2 so that all skeletons go the same lane). Then add a '''icegolem''' (eg. 0+3 when minipekka is on way to our tower).
::* Later, send '''hogrider''' 0+4 and '''skeletons''' 0+2 shortly asap [https://youtu.be/KxNBT9dDNiI?t=385]. They will distract the minipekka if it is played 3+3. 
:* Against '''sparky''' + '''electrogiant''' push: build a '''skeletons''' (behind K tower) '''icegolem + icespirit''' (at bridge), then asap '''hogrider''' push opposite lane. Then (or before) defensive '''musketeer''' in the corner, '''skeletons''' 1+5 to distract sparky, and asap '''cannon''' 0-3 (earthquake safe), to kite the giant. Play 2nd '''musketeer''' 7-4 (also to help dealing with '''minipekka''' coming from other lane). Next '''icegolem''' 0-4 to distract minipekka and sparky. Opp. plays a good '''tornado''' cleaning everything, we respond with '''cannon''' 4-2, and asap '''icespirit''' 2+5 to distract sparky, and it is out.
:* Against '''sparky''' in 2x elixir: we '''fireball''' and '''thelog''' it on the tower. Since opp plays also '''electrogiant''', we log both, then play '''musketeer''' in the corner for defense, and '''fireball''' both at bridge. Since opp plays '''tornado''' bringing musketeer in giant area, we play '''cannon''' 0-3 on defense (we also '''thelog''' the '''healspirit''').
:* Against '''electrogiant''': '''musketeer''' from a distance, '''icespirit''' freeze, a bit of '''cannon''' (which was '''earthquake'''-d) and '''thelog''' is enough.
:* Against '''ramrider''': '''cannon''' 4-2, and ''thelog''' at bridge to stop her charge (when she reaches the bridge). Maybe playing cannon 3-2 would be better since she would not charge into it.
:* Against '''electrowizard''': '''skeletons''' 6-0 when he crosses our river border, then '''thelog''' asap.
:* Against '''bandit''': 
::* '''skeletons''' in front of our '''musketeer''' best response.
::* If tower activated, '''skeletons''' 7-2 is perfect defense.
:* Against '''ramrider'''
:* Against '''megaknight''': '''thelog''' it on opp tower (because under fire of our dying '''musketeer'''), then '''cannon''' 4-2, and '''icegolem''' in midway, then also '''icespirit'''.

=== AfroCR gameplay ===
* When one OPP tower down, and '''musketeer''' crossing bridge, play '''hogrider''' at 3+5 (OPP side) when '''musketeer''' on 2nd row to have hog to tank for the '''musketeer'''. [https://youtu.be/cFinuHeph_U?t=167]

== lavahound+balloon deck (Carl the Legend) ==

=== Guides ===
* [https://clashroyale.fandom.com/wiki/Deck:Classic_Lavaloon Classic Lavaloon - fandom wiki]
: Excellent guide, explaining also the importance of investment, and good response when opponent wants to punish our lavahound investment.

=== Interactions ===
Some important interactions against lava counters:
;1126 dmg &mdash; Die to fireball (913) + 1 skeletondragons hit (213)
* '''musketeer''', '''wizard''' (fireball + tickle is enough), '''megaminion''', '''hunter''', '''witch'''
;1339 dmg &mdash; Die to fireball (913) + 2 skeletondragons hit (426)
* '''electrodragon'''
;1552 dmg &mdash; Die to fireball (913) + 3 skeletondragons hit (639)
* '''babydragon'''
;1765 dmg &mdash; Die to fireball (913) + 4 skeletondragons hit (852)
* '''executioner''', '''infernodragon'''

=== General tips (from Carl's gameplay) ===
* Note: tower trade means give in tower with less HP, and take an opp tower in exchange.
* General strategy
:* When playing '''lavahound''', commit to it! Always support the lavahound with another air troop, don't defend with an air troop on the other lane. Use tower HP as a resource to build a better push.
:* In mid-ladder is to KEEP TRACK OF AIR COUNTERS, and send '''balloon''' (or '''balloon+X''') pushes at the bridge.

* '''hogrider''': play '''tombstone''' in lane.
:* play lava opp. lane.
:* play mega to defend lava.
:* after fb oxn lava, '''balloon''' + '''guards''' opp lane.
* On '''executioner''' in the back: '''balloon''' spam opp lane. If '''electrowizard''' / '''tornado''': '''guards'''. On Ex, '''megaminion'''.
:* Against '''lumberjack'''+'''balloon''' spam: '''skeletondragons''' 5+3
:* On '''executioner''' middle, '''fireball''' sideways (on him + tower) to push him further.
* Mostly play '''tombstone''' at 4-2 or 4-3.
:* against '''megaknight''', '''tombstone''' at 6-2
:* Against '''elixirgolem''', '''tombstone''' 4-4 still attracts it!
* Against '''witch''': '''balloon''' on opp lane. Then on '''witch''', '''megaminion''' on her.
* Tips:
:* '''balloon''' + guard bridge spam.
:* '''tombstone''' 1st play ok. Not too high (4-3 placement) to avoid sniping from the bridge.
:* SKelly drags first ok, but not too deep, or opp will get '''fireball''' value.
* Build push:
:* In x2, When lava first and '''balloon''' not in cycle, can play '''skelli drags''' in the corner when elixir up, then '''balloon''' behind lava when in hand. Drags will reach the group on time.
* Against '''infernotower''' (middle field)
:* Skellidrags at bridge, then '''zap''' when 1st drag is about to die.
* Against '''lumberjack'''+'''balloon''':
:* '''skeletondragons''' at 3+4 asap, then '''zap''' at 1+2 when '''lumberjack''' is crossing the bridge. Then '''fireball''' 4+3 asap.
:* With minions: '''minions''' 4+2 then '''fireball''' 2+3 asap. minions should kill rapidly the '''lumberjack''', and then the '''balloon'''.
:* [https://youtu.be/_TFVKFk18FY?t=60] With '''balloon''' at 0+3: First '''skeletondragons''' at 4+2, then '''tombstone''' at 0-1 when (top of) balloon shadow is crossing 2nd row (at roughly 3-sq distance from balloon).
:* If '''lumberjack''' and '''balloon''' in the pocket: First '''tombstone''' at 7-3 (this will attract both troops), then '''megaminion''' at 7-2 to kill first the lumberjack.
:* (if our tower already down, eg only 1500HP left at lvl 11) then only '''megaminion''' at 3+2 is ok.
:* Play '''tombstone''' at 3-2 in advance may help.
:* [https://youtu.be/tGKiWR4aGSs?t=382] '''lumberjack''' at 0+4 and '''balloon''' at 1+4: play '''valkyrie''' at 4+3 asap, then '''tombstone''' at 3-2 (when balloon shadow half river), then '''skeletondragons''' at 7-5 (so other lane). Only got death bomb, but there was also a hit from our '''megaminion'''.
:* [https://youtu.be/tGKiWR4aGSs?t=414] '''lumberjack''' at 0+3 and '''balloon''' at 1+5 (+ a '''electrodragon''' at 1+3): play '''valkyrie''' at 5-3 (far from electrodragon), then '''tombstone''' at 3-2, and finally '''fireball''' at 3+1 to push back balloon and kill the electrodragon, and finally had to play a '''megaminion''' at 2+1 because our tombstone was dead.
:* [https://youtu.be/tGKiWR4aGSs?t=650] Naked '''balloon''' with rage already and a '''megaminion''' already there, play '''tombstone''' at 0-2 or 0-1 (at 3-sq distance from balloon) when shadow top is crossing 2nd row.
:* [https://youtu.be/tGKiWR4aGSs?t=675] '''lumberjack''' at 0+2 and '''balloon''' at 0+4: play '''tombstone''' at 4-2 (!) but let lumberjack connects to tower, then '''fireball''' at 3-0 to push back the balloon and kill the lumberjack, and finally '''skeletondragons''' at 5-5 (other lane then). This costs 1500 HP.
:* [https://youtu.be/tGKiWR4aGSs?t=705] '''lumberjack''' at 0+2 and '''balloon''' at 1+5: play '''valkyrie''' at 4+3 asap, then '''tombstone''' at 3-2 when top balloon shadow is crossing our river border, and finally '''skeletondragons''' at 2-0 when balloon crossing that column.
:* IF ONE OPP TOWER DOWN: play '''valkyrie''' or '''guards''' in the river corner. This will distract the '''lumberjack''', then play asap '''megaminion''' / '''skeletondragons''' / '''tombstone''' do deal with naked '''balloon'''.
* Against '''balloon''' + '''valkyrie''' in the pocket:
:* Play instantly '''tombstone''' at diagonal opposite, 0-6 placement (ie. 0+1 compared to tower this is down), then play air troop (eg. '''minions''') on the '''valkyrie'''.
* Good '''lavahound'''+'''balloon''' placement:
:* Lava in bottom corner
:* When lava shadow covers 3rd and 4th row, play '''balloon''' 1+5!
:* Against opp '''tombstone''' at 4-2, lava will still go on tower, and '''balloon''' as well! [https://www.twitch.tv/videos/1246729350 twitch, 00:28:00]
* To defend single tower against '''balloon''' in the pocket, put '''tombstone''' in the river pocket on opp side.
* Against '''xbow'''-'''infernotower''':
:* can '''guards'''+'''balloon''' at bridge on '''xbow''' if nothing.
:* ... or '''valkyrie''' 5-4 (ie. other lane to tank damage)
:* play '''tombstone''' 5-2 (deep, to protect her?), then lava other lane. If '''xbow''' same lane as lava, dragons to push lava, so it stay in front. If tower, '''zap''' on tower to refocus tower on skullies. Before the '''zap''', play '''balloon''' 1+5.
* Against '''infernodragon''' coming straight on lava: 
:* Play meganion behind the lava at bridge, then '''fireball''' the '''infernodragon''' (aim square right above '''infernodragon''' shadow) to bring it closer to lava, and be shot by mega.
* Against '''infernotower''', if opp plays it at bridge, one option is to send '''balloon''' before lava, and '''zap'''. Then tower would be destroyed by lava, and we can send another support troop (skullies, or '''infernodragon''').
* Don't play '''lavahound'''+'''balloon''' first, but wait for opp move:
:* If needed, start with '''zap''', '''megaminion''', or '''tombstone'''.
:* If opp plays an "innofensive" card ('''miner''', etc), then lava is ok (because it means our lava cost less).
* Against spawners: '''tombstone''' 6-2 is good.
* Against '''musketeer''' (in particular 2.6):
:* If doing a push '''lavahound'''+'''balloon''' + '''infernodragon''', opp usually plays '''musketeer''' middle, and distract the dragon with small troop. Use '''fireball''' knock back effet to bring the '''musketeer''' immediately in dragon spot and kill her asap. [https://youtu.be/_KXQgBfFWSE?t=938]
:* Send '''lavahound''' + '''megaminion''' instead of '''balloon''', so that we can '''fireball''' + '''zap''' the '''musketeer'''.
* Against '''hogrider''' (in particular 2.6):
:* Ideally, keep '''minions''' (or '''infernodragon''' but that's 4 elixir) or '''guards''' against '''hogrider'''. Otherwise, if not in the hand, play '''tombstone''' 3-3 (but opp can then log it).
* When we have one tower advantage, keep pressure:
:* Sometimes best way to defend is to go with a '''balloon''' + '''minions'''/'''skeletondragons''' on the lane with our strongest tower, so that opp has to spend elixir on defense.
* Against '''elixirgolem''':
:* Best answer seems to be '''guards''' on '''golem''' at the bridge, then '''fireball''' the '''battlehealer''' + '''electrodragon''' (and/or '''infernodragon''') [https://youtu.be/_KXQgBfFWSE?t=1956]
* Against '''elitebarbarians''':
:* Deep '''tombstone''' at 6-2 (or also 5-2 in some videos). Always positive trade, except if '''zap''' or '''rage'''.
* Against '''infernotower''' + '''dartgoblin''':
:* When tower + goblin is right out of cycle, send naked '''balloon''' at the bridge [https://youtu.be/42g6wWHCpIY?t=250]
:* When sending '''lavahound'''+'''balloon''' push (+'''megaminion''') on the tower (at least when tower in lane), '''zap''' the P tower + '''infernotower''' AFTER the lava pops so that the '''balloon''' is actually killing the tower. [https://youtu.be/42g6wWHCpIY?t=350]
* Against '''bandit''':
:* Don't put '''tombstone''' in the pocket, but rather behind the P tower when one tower is down (or '''bandit''' will destroy it easily).
* Against '''witch''' and spammer decks: '''deep''' tombstones!
* Elixir advantage:
:At game start, focus on and keep track of elixir advantage. If opp plays random card, and we can play lava for 2, 3 or even 4 less elixir, then it is a big push possibility. Play '''lavahound'''+'''balloon''', and keep pressure, to go for a tower trade. If opp over commits on one lane, it is often possible to punish with naked '''balloon''' on the other lane. Keep track of '''balloon''' counters!
* Against small swarm troop (eg. '''bats''') behind tank: play '''minions''' / '''skeletondragons''' at 6-3, so that 2nd tower is giving support, and our defense survive!
* Against '''musketeer''': don't walk in against '''musketeer''', because it's bad value. Instead, let her connect, then play '''skeletondragons''' on her.
* Against '''graveyard''': '''tombstone''' in the back. If so, playing '''lavahound''' is also ok.
* Against '''mortar''' or '''xbow''': go for tower trade on the other lane.
* Against '''hogrider''' cycle 2.6:
:* Don't send the '''balloon''', because bad value. Instead go for chip damage with the lava, and defend with all the rest (in particular 3-3 '''tombstone''' placement, and if so, make sure to kill the '''musketeer''' at the river if she snipes).
:* Can also kill the '''musketeer''' with '''fireball''' + '''zap'''.
:* Comba lava + '''skeletondragons''', then '''guards''' on '''fireball''' also seem to work. If so, think of '''fireball'''ing the '''cannon''' to get most value.
* Things to DEFEND:
:* Balloon, dark prince.
* Things that are not worth to DEFEND (in general):
:* Goblin gang, zappies, mother witch
* Against '''infernotower''':
:* Some tip from YT (TODO find back): play '''balloon''' in the front, and '''zap''' tower so that the '''lavahound''' survives.
:* Play a regular '''balloon'''+'''lavahound''', then '''zap''' + '''fireball''' the tower (from Twitch, this looks expensive, TODO find back)
* In 2X elixir time, usually play the  '''lavahound''' at 7+5.
* Punish with '''balloon''':
:* When opp is low on elixir, send naked '''balloon''' on the other lane.
* Against '''darkprince''':
:* '''tombstone''' 7-2. The stream of skeletons should be enough to stop charge of the prince, hence reducing damage. If opp plays '''earthquake''', Carl doesn't defend more and keep 4-elixir advantage for tower trade.
:* '''tombstone''' 5-2 is perfect defense, but the tombstone is destroyed.
:* Otherwise '''valkyrie''' at 6+5 (1-sq distance to avoid splash damage)
* Against '''royalghost''':
:* '''valkyrie''' at 6+5 (1-sq distance to avoid splash damage)
* When '''lavahound''' attacked by '''minions''', must TIME correctly the '''zap''' when '''lavahound''' is popping into puppies, so that the puppies have the first hit against the '''minions''' (and kill them)!
* When early tower trade, with no damage whatsoever on 2nd tower, playing '''tombstone''' behind the P tower is usually good move (eg. against '''bandit''').
* Against '''fireball''': DO NOT go with '''lavahound''' + '''minions''' (or '''infernodragons''') in the offensive push because it is fireball value! Instead go with '''lavahound''' + '''balloon''' or '''lavahound''' + '''infernodragon'''.
* Against '''queen''': best strategy usually is to go '''lavahound''' same lane.
* Kite '''royalghost''' opposite lane: '''valkyrie''' at 3-4 spot. I guess it can work with other troops as well (like '''guards''' at 3-5 spot then?).
* In x2 elixir, can build lavaloon push by first playing '''lavahound''' at 7+5, then '''balloon''' at 1+5 as usual.
* Against '''giant''' in the POCKET: '''tombstone''' 0-7 (ie. in front of lost P tower). In particular when OPP plays '''graveyard'''.
* Against '''hogrider''': '''valkyrie''' is quite bad (2 hits, but 3 if we are slow), '''minions''' much better (1 hit), or '''megaminion''' (2 hits, or 3, but only 3 elixir). So in matchup, identify which card you must keep, and spend valkyrie when necessary in order to keep eg. minions.
* When '''electrowizard''' is out, '''balloon''' at 3+1 (4-sq distance from pocket) can take 1 hit on king tower even if opponent plays '''executioner'''.
* When one tower down, apply '''pressure''' with '''valkyrie + balloon''' in THE POCKET!
* Against '''infernodragon''' + '''arrows''' (or '''fireball'''):
:* Send a '''lavahound + balloon''' push, then '''zap''' the '''infernodragon''' ONLY (dragon at roughly 6+4, front outer corner, not zapping the tower) to refocus the dragon on the balloon ! [https://youtu.be/b5uRbcZnu9E?t=1810] (see Carl's answer also). This way, the lavahound still tanks for the balloon, which can do one or two hits on the tower.
:* However it is not necessary if inferdragon is very close to the river (eg 2-sq distance, too far from balloon), when OPP doesn't have '''arrows''' or '''fireball''' [https://youtu.be/b5uRbcZnu9E?t=1348].

=== Things I learned ===
* When P tower is down, avoid attacking K K tower if opp has a building (because lava will be distracted, and under double fire)
* If one P tower is HP low, attack the other tower first! This way K K tower cannot defend!
* If Opp plays '''wizard''', seems better to put '''tombstone''' at 5-2, so that W cannot shot on '''tombstone''' from bridge (is that true?)
* Don't forget to use '''zap''' to force retarget -> very important to get extra or first hit for '''balloon'''. Like wait '''balloon''' is out of reach, then '''zap'''.  Must anticipate best time for '''zap''' (soon but not too soon).
* Don't forget '''tombstone''' behind tower if against '''goblinbarrel''', in particular if opp has log.
* In push with tank front, always kill support troop first.
* Never send '''balloon''' first when building a push, always start with lava (except punishing push at bridge). Otherwise it gives no option for reaction, whereas lava can still chip damage if things go wrong.
* Don't put guard in the pocket if ennemy has good counter in hand (like '''wizard''') against '''balloon''' + lava puppies.
* Against '''icewizard''' behind K tower, wait for him to be next to P tower (9-0 square) before playing lava same lane (if playing same lane).  This way, he will be in tower range.
* Play '''guards''' in the middle, so that both towers shoot and distance increase! Very important eg. against '''pekka''' + '''knight''' push against '''tombstone''', follow with '''guards''' in the middle!
* I got a tower, but opp has '''electrowizard''' full hp left, defend him first before next lava (coz' '''electrowizard''' slows down defense greatly)
* Against '''nightwitch''' + '''golem''', won with lava same lane, followed by skullies on '''golem''' ('''witch''' was so close it got killed too).  But player was not really good (bridge spam with '''elitebarbarians''').
* Another '''golem''' player, but without '''nightwitch''' ('''golem''', '''lumberjack''', '''darkprince''', '''tornado''', '''electrodragon''', '''babydragon'''), won lava opposite lane.  Don't defend the '''golem''', only the support troop if any.
* Against '''lavahound'''+'''balloon'''-tomb, don't put '''tombstone''' to defend lava. Put it after the lava connects, in order to distract puppies after.  Attack lava with mega. If our lava attacked, kill attacking troop with mega if possible, if it can then have it attack opp lava.  '''fireball''' attacking troops on lava.
* Against '''goblinhut''' middle, send lava on tower. Then ballon on hut (0-2, not too middle), same lane, and then skullies to cover '''balloon''' when the goblin pops.  In between '''zap''' the '''goblins''' targetting the '''balloon'''. But maybe better would be to wait for all '''goblinbarrel''' to pops, then '''zap''' them all, and don't send skullies.
* '''witch''' alone to defend '''lavahound'''+'''balloon''' is not enough to prevent '''balloon''' to connect. But '''witch''' + '''tornado''' is very DANGEROUS combination. '''witch''' must be shot down, either with '''fireball'''+'''zap''', or pushed with '''fireball''' to our offensive troops.

Some rule of thumbs:
* Don't defend '''goblingang''' naked?
* Don't put skullies on '''goblinbarrel''', then lava at front (over extend, very weak).
* When opp has '''tesla''', make sure that the tower + '''tesla''' aggro the lava before playing the '''balloon'''!
  Otherwise opp may play '''tesla''' to attract '''balloon''', which will then be aggro'ed by the tower!!!
* When opp. play a distract troop or counter-push troop (eg. elite barbarian in our field when one tower is down) to counter our own
  push, play '''guards''' to distract that troop and bring it close to our aerian support troop, to better kill that counter-push. Usually better than say putting '''guards'''
  between both towers.
* Against '''battleram''', '''fireball''' sucks. Because the '''barbarians''' remain, and we spent 4 elixir already. Best is '''tombstone''', or skullies, or '''megaminion''' (and '''zap'''?)

=== Midladder tips (from Carl's gameplay) ===
* Playing with the '''lavahound''' + '''infernodragon''' is very important when underlevel [https://youtu.be/MTsxAupVXrI?t=33].

;Wizard / witch
* See [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ftUqHYV7eT0] (last game).

=== Things to try ===
* Try other decks in the meta (lavaclone, lava flying machine).
* Try to play with '''poison''' or '''lightning''' to get rid of '''wizard''', '''electrowizard''', '''witch''' that are so annoying.

=== 2x elixir tournament tips ===
* Source: [https://www.twitch.tv/videos/1246729350]

Against '''megaknight''':
* '''tombstone''' 6-2 (possibly to activate K tower then)?

Against '''pekka''':
* '''tombstone''' 5-2?
:* Protect '''tombstone''' with '''guards''' to get more value from '''tombstone'''.

Against '''infernodragon''':
* FB the drag, so that it is pushed towards the '''megaminion''' or skullies that support the lava.

Against '''witch''' + infernoD:
* Send '''lavahound'''+'''balloon''', FB and '''zap''' the '''witch'''. Idea is to make sure the '''balloon''' connects to the tower.

Against '''hogrider''':
* '''tombstone''' at 4-2, then skullies at 2+2.
* Or '''guards''' at 5+3

In single tower, against '''witch''' played middle behind k tower, when sending '''lavahound'''+'''balloon''':
* Skullies in river pocket, then '''fireball''' on '''witch''' to bring '''witch''' closer to skullies.

Against '''lumberjack''' + '''firecracker''' '''balloon''':
* '''tombstone''' 4-2, then lava corner same lane, then FB on '''balloon''' + '''lumberjack''' (before they connect to '''tombstone'''), then skullies 2+4 to finish '''balloon''' and be immediately in support against '''firecracker'''.

Against '''pekka''' (in same lane as lava):
* Deep '''tombstone''' same lane, 6-2

Against Healer + '''elixirgolem''', when lava is opp lane already:
* skullies in the corner, then '''tombstone''' 4-3.
* On lava, opp played baby and electroD. We send '''megaminion''' on baby, then FB the baby to bring it closer to mega.
* On '''golem''', we send '''guards''' before '''tombstone''' pops.

Against queen + (baby D):
* '''lavahound'''+'''balloon''' same lane.
* '''fireball''' and '''zap''' the queen (and baby D).
* On the '''graveyard''', '''guards''' 

=== Tips from videos ===
* Opp tower down: '''lavahound''' at 0+4, then '''balloon''' at 3+2 (opp's field) when lava shadow is touching 4th row. '''balloon''' will push lava a bit.
* Against '''princess''': better go '''lavahound''' same lane.

=== Match-up guides ===

==== xbow + archerqueen ====
;General tips
* Go for TOWER TRADE as soon as possible (on opposite lane, to have a full tower and opp has to play his x-bow while being exposed).
:* Note: going for tower trade in 2x elixir is impossible because opponent will always have some elixir to defend.

;[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yknwEIjo3RQ BEATING HARD COUNTERS IN TOP LADDER w/ LAVA LOON!]
* Tower king activation if possible (eg. he plays with '''electrospirit''') is nice (to avoid opposite lane pressure).
* '''lavahound''' first play is not too bad if we have '''skeletondragons''' in the hand. On '''xbow''', play them so that to boost the '''lavahound''' towards and have it aggro'ed by tower.
* Opp. plays '''archer queen''' on the outer border, then '''tesla''' middle. We play the '''balloon''' right in front, away from the queen, who died under our pups on '''skeletondragons'''.
* 2nd '''lavahound''' played a bit higher (at 6+5).
* If opp has '''fireball''' in the hand, DO NOT PLAY '''skeletondragons'''.
* In 2x elixir, DO NOT PLAY '''lavahound''' in the back, because opp would play '''xbow''' fast, and we would lose the tower.

;[https://youtu.be/Qlg-bX8fsHI?t=10 #1 in the world - 2022/03/13]
* Classic lavaloon deck with '''valkyrie''', against: '''xbow''', '''tesla''', '''archerqueen''', '''valkyrie''', '''electrospirit''', '''rocket''', '''tornado''', '''thelog'''.
:* Note: '''rocket''' is better for us than '''fireball''' because the latter is perfect counter against our skeletondragons.
* Play '''tombstone''' 4-2 same lane as '''x-bow''', and when opp plays '''x-bow''', play immediately '''skeletondragons''' at 0+3.
* Pressure with '''balloon''', to at least get the death bomb damage.

==== log bait - goblinbarrel + princess / dartgoblin + infernotower + rocket ====
;General tips
* Play '''tombstone''' behind our tower to avoid giving log or princess value, and protect against '''goblinbarrel'''.
* Don't play the balloon if air counter ('''rascals''', '''dartgoblin''') in the hand

* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yknwEIjo3RQ BEATING HARD COUNTERS IN TOP LADDER w/ LAVA LOON!]
* Here also: '''dartgoblin''' (harder)
* TIP: always go in with the '''balloon''' (when he doesn't have the '''infernodragon''', '''dartgoblin''' or the '''princess'''), because it needs to play '''rocket''', which is then +1 elixir trade.
* TIP: play the '''tombstone''' behind the tower, to avoid value from the log.
* TIP: if opp plays with '''electrospirit''', try to activate the K tower.
* If opp has '''rocket''' in the hand, DO NOT GO with '''lavahound''' + '''balloon'''. Instead go in with '''megaminion''' and/or '''skeletondragons''', otherwise it is too much value for him. Then only go with '''balloon''' when the '''rocket''' is out.
* If opp plays without the '''rocket''', may send '''balloon''' naked at bridge (or combo with eg. '''valkyrie''') to force him playing '''infernotower'''. This will then free the way for the '''lavahound''' to chip damage.

; [https://youtu.be/ybayqzf8n7I?t=16 TOP 1 IN THE WORLD]
:* '''TODO''': write up other match up in that video.
* In the deck: '''goblinbarrel''', '''valkyrie''', '''dartgoblin''', '''skeletons''' '''electrospirit''', '''infernotower''', '''rocket''', '''thelog'''.
* In general, play deep '''tombstone''' behind P tower.
* Against '''goblinbarrel''': '''skeletondragons''' (8+4) or '''valkyrie''' (10+2, instant), or '''zap'''.
* Against '''goblinbarrel''' + '''electrospirit''': if '''zap''', make sure to kill the spirit and the two top goblins.
* If '''lavahound''' killed by '''infernotower''', '''balloon''' at bridge and then '''fireball''' on '''dartgoblin''' may give some damage.
* Push in single tower: '''lavahound''' in the corner of that tower, then at max elixir, '''megaminion''' at 10+2 (this would deal with a '''valkyrie''' played next), then play '''balloon''' IN FRONT OF LAVA at 0+4, and then '''zap''' the '''infernotower''' + P-tower (tower shoots only for 2 sec on balloon, which lost 25%; tower was at 4+5), and '''fireball''' the '''dartgoblin''' + P-tower so that balloon kills the tower. Opp plays a 2nd '''infernotower''', we play a 2nd '''lavahound''' (but behind our megaminion, that killed the valkyrie), and add '''skeletondragons''' behind the lavahound.
:* While push is running, play '''megaminion''' in pocket to prevent play like '''dartgoblin''' in the pocket.
:* Keep pressure by adding a '''lavahound''' at the pocket, and then a '''balloon''' on the other P tower, but at the bridge, and when both infernotower and dartgoblin are out of cycle to force a '''rocket''', with +1 elixir trade.

; [https://www.twitch.tv/videos/1423184269?t=00h07m00s GT - 1st match - 20220312] 
* deck: '''princess''' - '''infernotower''' - '''goblinbarrel'''
* '''lavahound''' corner first play, opp replies with '''infernotower''' 3-2, then '''princess''' at 11+5 same lane. So Carl plays '''balloon''' 0+4 opposite lane. Opp plays '''goblinbarrel''' on lava lane, we defend with '''infernodragons''' at 8+4.   As a result, balloon has two hits, princess is killed by puppies, infernotower dies under skeletondragons and puppies and did 2000hp damage to tower. We only took 500 hp.

; [https://www.twitch.tv/videos/1423184269?t=02h46m08s GT - 2nd match - 20220312]
* Deck: '''princess''', '''infernotower''', '''goblinbarrel''', '''rocket''', '''valkyrie''', '''guards''', '''electrospirit''', '''thelog'''.
* Push with '''lavahound'''+'''infernodragon'''. When '''infernotower''' starts shooting, '''zap''' it, then '''fireball it'''. Then lavahound should finishes it off rapidly. Infernodragons are likely distracted, but should be ready for attack on tower.
* If air counter out of hand, naked '''balloon'''.

; [https://youtu.be/aFpfMqka5Cw?t=478 IM #1 IN THE WORLD - 20220408]
* Deck: '''princess''', '''infernotower''', '''goblinbarrel''', '''rocket''', '''knight''', '''guards''', '''icespirit''', '''thelog'''
* Main idea: '''lavahound''' + '''skeletondragons''' push. Then '''zap''' on the whole thing before lava reaches half life. Add '''megaminion''' against distracting '''knight'''. 
:* When OPP plays '''rocket''', play '''balloon''' opposite or same lane.
* '''Fireball''' the '''princess''' when on tower, or to support a push.

; [https://youtu.be/dxOdfw1Wg4Q?t=23 HOW TO GET PAST MID LADDER IN CLASH ROYALE - 2022]
* Deck: '''princess''', '''rocket''', '''goblinbarrel''', '''dartgoblin''', '''rascals''', '''guards''', '''prince'''
* We play with '''valkyrie''', '''megaminion''' and '''minions'''.
* Valkyrie can reset the prince if he is on our tower.
* Don't go with balloon if air counter in the hand.
* Defend princess or rascals with megaminion.

==== royalhogs + earthquake + archerqueen ====
;General tips
* Against '''royalhogs''' at bridge, '''skeletondragons''' at 4+3 (aligned with hogs, here 0+3), then '''tombstone''' at 0-1.
:* Must we shift it to keep 1-square distance with closest hog?
* ONE TOWER DOWN: use '''tombstone''' at 0-2 to aggro piggies to 2nd tower.
* '''zap''' the tower a bit short before lava pops so that OPP fails his '''royaldelivery'''. [https://youtu.be/TVkM1YgrIjA?t=200]
* Against '''archerqueen''' with '''balloon''': '''fireball''' in the back of queen to push her to death bomb, then '''zap'''. Queen dies on the death bomb.
* Against '''royalhogs''', can '''fireball'' if NO lava push ongoing. Otherwise keep the '''fireball''' to support the lava push (e.g on the '''cannon''' to avoid distract our '''balloon''') [https://youtu.be/xxhUbrLeN1w?t=6].

; [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yknwEIjo3RQ BEATING HARD COUNTERS IN TOP LADDER w/ LAVA LOON!]
* TIP: Keep '''fireball''' against the '''royalhogs''' (best response). '''valkyrie''' is usually less good if opp has '''thelog''' and '''skeletons''' in the hand, because she will then give less pressure.
* TIP: Play '''tombstone''' only after he played '''earthquake'''
* TIP: Make sure to play '''balloon''' on the side of the '''lavahound''' so that '''balloon''' is pushed a bit on the outer side, making it harder for opp to play the '''cannon''' correctly.

==== megaknight ====
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yknwEIjo3RQ BEATING HARD COUNTERS IN TOP LADDER w/ LAVA LOON!]
* Also in the deck: '''ramrider''', '''royalghost''', '''bandit''', '''archerqueen''', '''snowball''', '''electrospirit''', '''lightning'''
* Against '''ghost''': '''valkyrie''' in the corner.
* TIP: Play '''tombstone''' at 6-2 against '''megaknight'''.
* TIP: When opp has '''lightning''' in the hand, DO NOT PLAY classic '''lavahound''' + '''balloon''' push. Play instead '''megaminion''' or '''skeletondragons'''.
* TIP: '''zap''' the '''ramrider''' so that she doesn't charge on the tower. Ideally zap her when she next to our defensive troops.

==== Three musketeers ====
; [https://www.twitch.tv/videos/1423184269?t=00h12m40s GT - 1st match - 20220312] 
* deck: '''royalhogs''', '''threemusketeers''', '''hunter'''
* Two '''musketeers''' (roughly at 3+1) on our lavahound, we send '''megaminion''', then '''valkyrie'''. Opp adds '''hunter''', we '''zap''' the whole, killing 1st musketeer. Opp sends '''log''', but our valkyrie and puppies kills the hunter and 2nd musketeer.

==== Executioner ====
; [https://youtu.be/Qlg-bX8fsHI?t=445 #1 in the world - 2022/03/13]
* deck: '''balloon''', '''executioner''', '''electrowizard''', '''infernodragon''', '''valkyrie''', '''miner''', '''tornado''', '''zap'''.
* Tip: NEVER go for tower trade, but instead go for CHIPPING more DAMAGE than your opponent, because in this deck your opponent will always have some air counters to prevent the tower trade.
* Tip: Push '''executioner''' into our troop with '''fireball'''.
* If '''infernodragon''' on '''lavahound''', ok to '''zap''' if we have a '''megaminion''' on support to kill the infernodragon, so that our lavahound can chip lot of damage on the tower.
* Against a push with '''valkyrie''' (almost full hp) + '''balloon''' (at 0+4), and ''executioner''' coming (1/4 hp):
:* '''tombstone''' at 4-2, then '''skeletondragons''' at 7-1, PERFECT defense (only death bomb!).
* When '''executioner''' and '''electrowizard''' are out (on one lane), go '''balloon''' + '''skeletondragons''' behind at the bridge opposite lane, so that opp cannot '''tornado''' everything.
:* This also forces opp to play something more ('''valkyrie''') to defend the dragons.
* Against a push '''electrowizard''', '''balloon''' (at 1+5), and '''executioner''' behind:
:* '''zap''' the electrowizard and balloon, then '''tombstone''' at 3-2, then '''megaminion''' at 6-1. PERFECT defense again.

; [https://youtu.be/oo2XEagmee4?t=414 I GOT TOP 30 IN THE WORLD - 2022-04-08]
* Viiper deck: '''hogrider''', '''executioner''', '''valkyrie''', '''goblins''', '''icespirit''' '''rocket''', '''tornado''', '''log'''.
* Key tips: '''tombstone''' at 3-3 against '''hogrider'''. Also '''guards''' at 3+3 (one hit).
* '''fireball''' the '''executioner''' into lava pups. Possibly '''zap''' him also on pop.
* Don't play lavaloon. Rather, play NAKED '''balloon''' to bait the '''rocket'''. 
* If OPP plays '''valkyrie''' opposite lane, split the '''skeletondragons''' so that both lanes are defended (against '''hogrider''').
* Must AVOID absolutely to have a tower in rocket range! So DEFEND is a must. Strategy is to chip damage with '''lavahound'''.

==== hogrider 2.6 ====
* In general, DO NOT play the '''balloon''', because opp can defend easily with value.
* Defend '''hogrider''' with '''tombstone'''.
* Focus '''fireball''' on the '''musketeer''', but use the push back to bring her closer to our support troop ('''megaminion''', or '''skeletondragons'''), or if necessary, '''zap''' her.
:* Ideally fireball should land when puppies appears so that they get the first hit?
* Opp will likely focus her/his fireball on our '''skeletondragons''', so avoid stacking troops on them.
* '''valkyrie''' can also help, but better play when '''cannon''' is no longer there.

==== mortar ====
; [https://youtu.be/aFpfMqka5Cw?t=258 IM #1 IN THE WORLD 2022-04-08]
* Deck: '''mortar''', '''miner''', '''cannoncart''', '''minionhorde''', '''guards''', '''speargoblins''', '''fireball''', '''log'''.
* Looks hard, but in fact we have hard counters: '''fireball''' against '''minionhorde''', '''zap''' against '''speargoblins'''.
* Idea: DO NOT GO for the FIRST big lavaloon push. Otherwise, OPP will punish us opposite lane with '''cannoncart''', '''guards'''.
:* Instead wait for playing '''tombstone''' behind a tower (against '''miner'''), then play '''lavahound''' opposite lane.
:* Strategy: chipping him more and more. Tank '''mortar''' with '''valkyrie'''.
* If '''cannoncart''' connects, '''balloon''' on it asap.
* If OPP's '''fireball''' is no longer in the hand, play '''skeletondragons''' against '''minionhorde''' instead of expensive '''fireball''', to support our push.

;Tips from Innvader
* Can play '''balloon''' at 1+5 to force opp to play defensive '''mortar'''. Will give balloon death bomb damage. [https://youtu.be/4T0KxK99TIA]

==== graveyard ====
; [https://youtu.be/oo2XEagmee4?t=18 I GOT TOP 30 IN THE WORLD - 2022-04-06 - game 1]
* Deck: '''graveyard''', '''bowler''', '''babydragon''', '''infernodragon''', '''valkyrie''', '''icewizard''', '''freeze''', '''tornado'''
* Key card here is '''skeletondragon''' because OPP has no big spell!
* '''fireball''' on '''icewizard'''.
* Key play: '''lavahound''' + '''skeletondragons''' push, countered by '''icewizard''' and '''babydragon'''. Play '''fireball''' on the '''icewizard''', then '''zap''' the '''babydragon''' when the lava pops so that babydragon does NOT COUNTER our push!!!
* '''tombstone''' behind the tower, put foresee SPACE for a SECOND one (to always defend the graveyard).
* On '''graveyard''':
:play '''skeletondragons''' on the side (7-2), then '''zap''' when lot of skeletons.
:can also play '''valkyrie''' (but mind the '''freeze''').
; [https://youtu.be/oo2XEagmee4?t=190 I GOT TOP 30 IN THE WORLD - 2022-04-06 - game 2]
* Deck: '''graveyard''', '''valkyrie''', '''babydragon''', '''icewizard''', '''tombstone''', '''poison''', '''tornado''', '''barbarianbarrel'''.
* Bad start. OPP play '''valkyrie''' and '''graveyard''': we defend with '''skeletondragons''' in the corner (13+5) then '''tombstone''' 5-0 to defend the '''valkyrie''', and later '''zap'''.
* When OPP has '''poison''' in the hand, avoid playing '''skeletondragons'''.
* Strategy: only chip damage by '''lavahound''' and '''fireball''' on the tower (e.g. to get rid of '''tombstone'''), because very difficult to connect with '''balloon''' because of '''tombstone''' + '''babydragon'''.
* Still, NAKED '''balloon''' is good if OPP doesn't have '''babydragon''' or '''icewizard''' in the hand. Because it gives us some positive elixir trade and death bomb damage.
* Against '''graveyard''', make sure to play '''skeletondragons''' out of poison (eg. at 4+1), especially if we have a '''tombstone''' behind the tower (because OPP cannot target both with '''poison''').

==== giant + sparky ====
;[https://youtu.be/oo2XEagmee4?t=642 I GOT TOP 30 IN THE WORLD - 2022-04-08]
* Deck: '''giant''', '''sparky''', '''archerqueen''', '''minipekka''', '''healspirit''', '''lightning''', '''tornado''', '''zap'''.
* Against '''giant''', deep'''tombstone''' 5-2.
* Better keep '''megaminion''' for defense (less value for '''lightning''').
* Don't play '''tombstone''' first play, because otherwise '''sparky''' would stay in OPP side.
* On '''sparky''', better spam on other lane if having an active push so that OPP cannot support his sparky.

==== Furnace ====
* Tip: always go '''lavahound''' OPPOSITE lane, and '''tombstone''' SAME lane. [https://youtu.be/ap_Yphi9nc0?t=374]

==== Golem ====
;[How to BEAT Mid Ladder in Clash Royale ] ([https://youtu.be/ap_Yphi9nc0?t=581 9:41], [https://youtu.be/ap_Yphi9nc0?t=760 19:00], [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CcuI-iSlU7o])
* Deck with '''megaminion''' and '''nightwitch''': play naked '''balloon''' at the bridge, when these two cards are not in the hand! Be careful though not to be too low on elixir (but Carl played it when having only 6 elixir ^^).
* On '''golem''', play '''tombstone''' 5-2, so that skeletons stack up. Add '''megaminion''' as extra defense, and try to get a very good '''fireball''' on both '''megaminion (or babydragon) + nightwitch'''. Add '''skeletondragons''' on top after fireball to finish off the troops.
* Usually must defend two '''golem''' pushes, and then can pressure with '''valkyrie''' then asap '''balloon''' in the pocket.j
* When playing '''megaminion''' first play, and '''golem''' in defense, we can '''lavahound''' in front of the '''megaminion''', then '''tombstone''' 5-2, so that skeletons stack up.
* Strategy: makes as much pressure as possible, so that he can't support the golem push, and play a deep tombstone (5-2). Also, always target the backup cards first (eg. defend with cards on the outer edge, so that when the golem is kited away, the defense targets the backup).
* Against '''tornado''' (+'''nightwitch, babydragon, electrodragon, bowler, lumberjack'''), as soon as it is out of the hand, play '''balloon''' in the pocket.

==== Giant + Sparky ====
* Playing with '''mightyminer''' [https://youtu.be/FtiyrHApDJE?t=870].
:* Tip is to chill in single elixir, waiting for OPP's push.
:* Play high drags to avoid giving fireball value.
:* Use '''mightyminer''' to kill '''minionhorde''' for only 1 elixir.
:* Wait for double elixir before building big lava pushes.

==== Royalgiant ====
* Playing with '''minions''' + '''infernodragon''' + '''valkyrie'''
:* '''valkyrie''' not good against '''royalgiant''', but '''minions''' is very good.

==== Elixirgolem ====
* First play '''tombstone''' in 4-2 (if early) or 4-3 (or 4-4).
* See [https://youtu.be/vQ7I_yLuaDs?t=178].
* '''infernodragons''' + '''babydragon''' on support troop (or '''guards''', but don't if opponents plays '''arrows''').

==== Giant + double princes ====
* Tip from Boss: Don't '''lavahound''' in the back in single elixir, because it will be impossible to defend afterwards [https://youtu.be/QfbhfIvLScY?t=1178].

==== Lavahound + miner ====
* Apply pressure (usually play lavahound higher in 2x) to force opp to defend your pushes, so that they cannot back up their own lavahound.

==== elixirgolem ====
;From Innvader
* To defend push, play a couple air counters in the back, then lavahound high at the bridge to tank the air counters (egolem deck doesn't run big spells) [https://youtu.be/EPeIJbNyEwI?t=100]
* Also, be careful to not play unit too close from the bridge to avoid opp to tornado them into his '''electrodragon'''.
* Capitalize on opponent over-commiting lot of elixir, try to defense smart.

==== skeletonbarrel + miner + infernodragon ====
;From Innvader
* Tip: Do NOT play '''lavahound''' in single elixir (game with multiple air counter, or one big air counter). Instead, if opp is low on elixir, or played his counter, go with '''phoenix + skeletondragons''' push (or '''balloon + skeletondragons'''). [https://youtu.be/f_kSe3e0ZY4?t=698]

==== WoToP (royalhogs, zappies, flyingmachine...) ====
;From Innvader
* Do not '''fireball''' the '''zappies''' if they are not targetting the '''balloon''', because this is waste of elixir. Instead go with '''mightyminer''' [https://youtu.be/cOpzTooM_uo?t=370]

=== Videos summary ===
Midladder:
* Try the '''valkyrie''' (iso '''guards'''), and possible '''fireball''' + '''arrows'''!

Against '''goblinhut''' / '''furnace''':
* Play '''tombstone''' 6-2 same lane as goblin.
* Play Lava very high (5+5), then '''balloon''' (1+5) right behind. Finish '''furnace''' with FB.
* If hut played close to river, '''skeletondragons''' on them ok.
* When hut explodes, if they target laval, '''zap''' them all.

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t7cmmwqTIM8
* '''guards''': excellent value, can do lot of damage, naked behind '''balloon''' or lava. '''valkyrie''' is another alternative (esp against skel king).
* TBC

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hyuw29x7oBM
* How to beat E-'''giant''':
:* Never play '''tombstone''' out of the cycle when you know opp has e-'''giant''' in cycle (because opp will play '''bomber''' or alike to defeat '''tombstone'''), then probably react to any defense with '''tornado'''.
:* Always play the Skelli Drags out of the circle.
:* '''tombstone''' placement: if '''electrogiant''' from left or right, we play '''tombstone''' at 4-3. But if '''electrogiant''' is coming from center (hence he will be closer to center on the bridge as well), then play '''tombstone''' at 4-4! Of course '''tombstone''' must be defended.
:: Exception: if '''tombstone''' would be snipped by opp from opp lane, play '''tombstone''' at 5-2 instead (aka ''deep '''tombstone''').
:* If '''electrogiant''' first play, go opp lane with '''balloon''' + skelli drags(or '''guards''')''', then defend with '''tombstone''' at 4-4 and '''mega''' on any other troop.
:* Kill backup first! eg. kill the '''bomber''', '''princess''', etc with eg. '''megaminion'''.

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f5vJGEKNiBI
* How to beat log bait
:* Always kill the '''princess''' (eg. with '''megaminion''' same lane same depth). Don't go '''balloon''' opp lane, try to keep the field clean!
:* '''megaminion''' vs troops.
::* If '''princess''' close to bridge, place mega at bridge, it tank one hit from '''princess''' and can get one hit on tower.
:* '''tombstone''' behind 2nd tower. This prevents value from log, and also tank damage from '''goblinbarrel''' barrel.
:* Go same lane as '''princess'''.
:* best way to kill the barrel. Don't use the '''fireball''' (keep it for eg '''princess'''). Play '''guards''' 9+4 (if left tower), or 9-0 (right tower)

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CWwXYJ6Xcvw
* How to beat '''xbow'''
:* Tower trade! if '''xbow''' one lane, go lava opp lane, then '''balloon'''. Opp plays '''tesla'''. If also '''fireball''', play '''skelli drags''' (12+5, ie. one above corner), then '''fireball''' the '''archers'''. Try to go into an early tower trade.
:* Don't go with '''lavahound'''+'''balloon''' when the '''xbow''' is played in the middle (ie. not on the external border). Otherwise opp can play '''tesla''' to lure '''balloon''' to it then '''xbow'''.
:: Instead go with the '''megaminion''', '''fireball''' the '''tesla''', etc.
:* Go for '''lavahound'''+'''balloon''' push only if '''fireball''' in cycle. This is necessay to kill the '''archers''', otherwise they get too much values against lava.
:* Boost your '''lavahound''' with Dragons in the '''xbow'''. Usually opp will play '''xbow''' same lane against Lava. This prevents playing '''balloon''' or '''megaminion''' because they have shorter range (hence they'll be targeted by P tower). Instead, play '''Skelli Drags''' behind the Lava (ie. 1+5) so that the Lava is pushed (boosted) by them.
:* Predict (counter) '''xbow''' with '''tombstone''', when opp has one tower down. Put '''tombstone''' close to '''tesla''', so that '''xbow''' would be pushed back, and won't hit tower.

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gkbU1AZb3tc
* Pushed to #9
* TODO: Watch this again
* Don't '''balloon''' naked at the bridge if opp has '''infernodragon''' in hand.
:* '''lavahound'''+'''balloon''' ok, but we support in hand ('''megaminion''' and '''zap''')
* After a push that we can defend, '''guards''' spam on other lane is good.

Video: New META deck ('''arrows''')
* FB + '''arrows''', strong against queen (now that )
* FM, instead of skully drags (because '''arrows''' has splash enough)

Video: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-BhJNRgbR8k How to Escape from MIDLADDER - 2022-01-02]
* Midladder = 6600.
* Deck: '''lavahound'''+'''balloon''', '''zap''' + '''fireball''' + '''tombstone''', megamion, skully drags, '''valkyrie'''
* '''valkyrie''': '''elitebarbarians''', '''witch'''.
* Against '''megaknight''' + '''princess''', let it take the tower (was 500 hp), so put Mega behind k tower, and when opp plays '''bats''', play skully drags to kill '''bats''', then '''princess''', then '''megaknight'''... and enough time to put '''lavahound''' in front of skully drags!
* Playing Lava on the opposite side of '''firecracker'''.
* When opp one tower down, in 1x elixir:
:* Lava 1+5.
:* If opp plays '''hogrider''' + '''earthquake''' (+'''firecracker'''), so fine to go with '''balloon''' (in top border corner), and '''zap''' the '''tesla''' if needed.
* Opp plays 7 elix, so fine to go with '''lavahound'''+'''balloon''' on K tower, then '''zap''' the '''tesla'''.
* Never play lava first, because not safe (eg. walking in an '''executioner'''). Better play '''tombstone''', '''zap''' or '''megaminion'''.
:* If opp plays '''valkyrie''', play lava same lane. Then opp plays '''infernodragon''', we play '''balloon''' behind lava as usual. Opp plays '''electrodragon''', we '''zap'''. He's tornadoing. Then we activate K tower with '''megaminion''' at 11+4, and distract idrags with '''valkyrie''' at bridge.
:* We are playing splashyard... We send lava opp lane, and megamion behind it (no '''balloon'''!), then '''fireball''' on idrags, so that mega can kill it.
:* Against '''graveyard''', '''tombstone''' behind tower, and skully drag 4+5 to avoid the '''freeze'''!
* Against '''golem''' in the back:
:* Immediately '''balloon''' + skully same lane ('''balloon''' 5th card, so we play skullies at 5+3, then '''balloon''' 0+3). If '''nightwitch''', '''zap''' when bat connects to '''balloon'''.  This takes the tower
:* Not to be worry if K tower low, because can defend easily '''golem''' with '''tombstone''' 0-1 for instance, when '''golem''' coming from middle. This kites the '''golem''' to 2nd tower.
:* 2nd '''golem''' + '''witch''' push:
::* we play '''lavahound'''+'''balloon'''.
::* Wait for 3rd wave of '''bats''', and '''zap''' them.
::* '''tombstone''' 4-3, and skully drags behind '''witch'''.
::* Then '''megaminion''' on golemites, and finally '''valkyrie''' to distract '''flyingmachine''' (ideally it must be in tower range)
:* 3rd '''golem''':
::* Before that, we skully drags the '''nightwitch''', and send '''balloon''' on k tower from other side to keep pressure.
::* He play '''golem''' pocket, so '''tombstone''' 5+3 from k tower (ie. 2 sq above original tower).
::* We '''fireball''' + '''zap''' to kill '''megaminion''', then skully drags.
::* Opp plays '''elitebarbarians''' + '''nightwitch''' at bridge: we play high '''valkyrie''' + '''megaminion''' at 3-3 (within range of skully drags in fact), and finally '''fireball'''.
* Execution: very hard counter.
* TIP against '''executioner''': use '''fireball''' knock-back to push him into our skully drags or '''megaminion''' to have it killed.
* Against '''ramrider''' middle: '''tombstone''' 4-4! (one hit only, sometimes none). Otherwise '''tombstone''' 4-3.
* We send '''lavahound'''+'''balloon''': opp defends with '''infernodragon''', then '''electrowizard'''. We '''fireball'''!
* Against '''megaknight''': when '''megaknight''' middle bridge, '''valkyrie''' 2+1, that's flawless.

Video: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7hmqeVhCiS4 Best '''lavahound''' Deck for 2022! - 2022-01-07]
* Deck (from WELCOME, top 10): '''lavahound'''+'''balloon''' - '''fireball''' + '''arrows''' + '''tombstone''' - '''guards''' / '''minions''' / '''infernodragon'''.
* Deck for tournaments, or top ladder.
* Here: '''fireball''' + arrow to kill the queen, which is one of worst counter against '''lavahound'''+'''balloon'''. Otherwise, not that good ;-)
* 1st game:
:* Don't lava 1st play. We play '''tombstone''' (otherwise, '''megaminion''', '''arrows''', or '''guards''' at the bridge, ok).
:* '''prince''': we play '''guards''' 6+5, they meet at 1+2.
:* Opp plays '''earthquake''' -> huge elixir advantage, so '''lavahound'''+'''balloon'''.
:* Opp plays '''electrogiant''' corner... so we play idrags 4+4, and '''tombstone''' 3-3 !!! (not 4-3).
:* Against '''archerqueen''': '''lavahound'''+'''balloon''' 7+5 when queen entering bridge.
:* '''minions''': to add pressure on lava push, or in the pocket to tank for '''balloon''' and allow it to connect on K tower.
* 2nd game:
:* Skullies + '''miner''': '''minions''' on '''miner'''.
:* Musky + '''mortar''': we '''fireball''' (push musky towards the bridge), then '''guards'''.
:* Musky + morter: we '''infernodragon''' on musky at bridge, then '''balloon''' on '''mortar''' asap.
:* '''tombstone''' behind the tower (so that it cannot be targetted), then lava same lane, and '''balloon'''.
::* ... then send '''infernodragon''' on the musky middle, which then also predicts a '''mortar''' at river that was distracting the '''balloon'''!
* 3rd game:
:* '''princess''' k tower: we play lava for sure.
:: ... later we send an '''infernodragon''' to kill the '''princess'''.
:* '''prince''' other lane: we defend only with '''minions'''.
:* '''skeletonarmy''' other lane: '''guards''' at 0-5 !!!, so that '''guards''' still go other lane after defending.
:* ... afraid of '''megaminion''' + '''skeletonarmy''' in the pocket: defend proactively with '''tombstone''' 6-0
:* Mistake: played the '''infernodragon''' out of hand against '''princess''', which allowed played RG + '''megaknight'''.
* 4th game:
:* Against '''bats''', never naked '''balloon''' at the bridge.
:* ... predictive '''arrows''' on last push (to predict '''bats''' or '''skeletons'''...)
* 5th game:
:* '''goldenknight''' + babydrag: '''minions''', then '''fireball''' on both.
:* ... we know 1st air counter = baby, any 2nd counter?
:* ... we could play '''guards''' at bridge, but that's '''megaknight''' value.
:* ... instead we play lava, and keep '''tombstone''' in case opp punishes... but he put '''golem'''.
:* When one tower down, '''tombstone''' 6-0.
:* Against '''elitebarbarians''' in the pocket: '''tombstone''' 7-1.

Video: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NSSt48XTmsg How to get past mid ladder - 2022-01-09]
TODO: To watch
* Deck: '''lavahound'''+'''balloon''', '''zap''' + '''fireball''' + '''tombstone''', megamion, skully drags, '''valkyrie'''
* For 6600 trophies (midladder = anything up to top 1000).

Video: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7nfwn_R3D60 Best F2P '''lavahound''' Deck in Clash Royale - 2022-01-11]
* Best F2P Deck (from WELCOME, top 10): '''lavahound'''+'''balloon''' - '''fireball''' + '''arrows''' + '''tombstone''' - '''guards''' / '''minions''' / '''infernodragon'''.
:* 2 leg, best to use jokers, etc.
* Variant (from comment): '''arrows''' iso '''zap''' (for queen, log baits...). '''zap''' goes better with skully drags, and possibly '''goldenknight''' iso '''guards'''.
* TIP: If K tower low hp and opp plays on lane w/o tower: play '''tombstone''' 0-4 or 0-5, this will kite troops to 2nd tower.
* When defend with '''infernodragon''', position it to go the lane we want next.

Video: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fy_ycKFoBek '''lavahound''' TIPS FOR MID LADDER - PART 2]
* DECK: '''lavahound'''+'''balloon''' - '''fireball''' + '''arrows''' + '''tombstone''' - '''guards''' / '''minions''' / '''infernodragon'''.
* Start: '''fireball''' on '''archers'''.
* Against '''elitebarbarians''': '''guards''' 5-3. If '''rage''', '''minions''' 4+2.
* Start: Against '''witch''': '''fireball'''
* Against '''musketeer''': deep '''tombstone''', 6-2.
* Against '''balloon''' + '''rage''': '''minions''' 5+2 ! (perfect, only death bomb)
* Against '''hogrider''': play lava same lane, then '''infernodragon''' behind to finish off '''hogrider''', this gives huge elixir advantage (play '''infernodragon''' 7+5 when lava on that square).
:* Push = lava + '''infernodragon''' + '''balloon''' ( he defend with baby, '''fireball''', then '''tombstone''' again ), then '''guards'''.
* When bad starting hand ('''infernodragon''', '''guards''', '''minions''', '''arrows'''):
;notes
* What do we go against 2.6?
* What do we go against '''elixirgolem''' / '''nightwitch''' / ...

Video: [https://www.twitch.tv/videos/1279811719 INSTANT PLATZ 1 DER WELT PUSHEN IM NEUEN GLOBAL TOURNAMENT! DANACH LVL 11 ACC MAXEN!]
* Deck: '''lavahound'''+'''balloon''' - '''fireball''' + '''arrows''' + '''tombstone''' - '''guards''' / '''minions''' / '''infernodragon'''
* TODO: 0-35min
* What do we go against '''xbow'''?
:* When one tower down, '''tombstone''' 6-0, then lava 7+5, then '''fireball''' '''tesla'''+'''xbow'''+'''archers''', then '''balloon''' asap (but make sure lava is front), then '''arrows''' on '''archers''', then '''infernodragon''' on '''knight'''.
* Against '''elixirgolem''' / healer / '''infernodragon''':
:* Send '''infernodragon''' on '''golem''', and '''fireball'''+'''arrows''' the '''electrodragon'''/'''infernodragon'''/healer, and '''minions''' the '''infernodragon''' to finish it.
:* After push send '''balloon''' in front of guard (because air counter out of cycle?)
* Against '''graveyard''' - skelking - dart - '''tombstone''' - '''infernodragon''' - '''bats'''
:* defend, and when push with '''infernodragon''' + some '''minions''', opp defend with '''infernodragon''', we play lava 6+5! other lane, then '''balloon'''. Defend lava push with '''arrows''', and counter '''graveyard''' with '''guards'''.
* Against '''golem''': lava same lane, then '''infernodragon''' on '''golem'''.

==== [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wSe0qNnxCUw How to beat '''golem''' w/ '''lavahound'''+'''balloon'''!] ====
* Even elixir, against '''golem''' first play:
:* First '''tombstone''' at <code>4-3</code>, then '''lavahound''' same lane (to tank eg against '''nightwitch''' while we defend).
* What if no '''tombstone''' in hand:
:* Ideally '''ballon + '''skeletondragons''' (<code>0+4</code> and <code>0+3</code> asap) OPPOSITE lane. If opp's react (eg. '''fireball''' our push), play '''guards''' at <code>3+2</code>. Then if '''babydragon''',play '''megaminion''' on it. Then if '''nightwitch''', play '''zap''' (so that '''megaminion''' still kills her). We have elixir lead, no need to '''fireball''', also, keep '''tombstone''' for next big push.
* '''tombstone''' against backup cards (eg. '''elitebarbarians''' bridge, or '''lumberjack''' bridge):
:* Play '''tombstone''' at <code>5-2</code> if we are low elixir, perfect defense, big elixir trade.
:* But best would be to play '''guards''' at <code>4-4</code> (same aggro as eg. '''icegolem''' 3-4), so that we can keep our '''tombstone''' for big big pushes.
* How to defend BIG '''golem''' pushes (in particular 2x / 3x elixir)
:* '''golem''' first play, we do '''tombstone''' 4-3, then '''lavahound''', then '''balloon''' (very soon, eg. <code>9+5</code>, on lava's rear). Opp plays '''nightwitch''' + baby + '''elitebarbarians'''. We do '''fireball''' on with + baby (and barbs if possible), then '''skeletondragons''' <code>2+3</code> ON THE BACKUP. Then again a '''tombstone'''.
* Activate King Tomer when opp plays '''electrodragon'''
:* Possibly bait the '''electrodragon''' with '''guards''' at bridge.
:* Play a SINGLE troop (ideally '''megaminion''', but '''tombstone''' also ok) at <code>11-0</code> or <code>9-1</code>. Best to wait THIRD shot so that '''megaminion''' is still max life.

==== [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NtyXd-wnVDo BEST LAVA LOON DECK in CLASH ROYALE RIGHT NOW - Boss CR] ====
Excellent video on Grand Challenge from Boss CR
* Deck: '''lavahound''', '''balloon''', '''infernodragon''', '''minions''', '''valkyrie''', '''tombstone''', '''fireball''', '''zap'''.
* Accept to take damage, to be able to build lava pushes (usually requires 12 elixir).
* Be patient with lava push. Don't always put balloon, but instead watch for opponent's reaction first.

=== [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rDzMJPexpXw '''lavahound''' TIPS FOR MID LADDER - PART 3] ===
* First game:
:* '''tombstone''', 3-2, then lava same lane (because troop on opp lane would go to that building anyway)
:* '''infernodragon''' on skel '''giant''', '''arrows''' + '''fireball''' on '''wizard''' + '''archers'''.
:* opp plays '''tombstone'''... we play naked '''balloon''' on the other tower...

=== [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s_2wmNsQU9w '''lavahound''' TIPS FOR MID LADDER - PART 4] ===
* Same deck as usual.
* TBC

=== Tips for high lavahound play ===
; From Innvader videos
* Explanations from Luna [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4T0KxK99TIA&lc=Ugw2UmdKlXavlXrXiW94AaABAg.9jzDEOIF0kD9jzk1e3CIkC]:
  It depends on the situation, on 2:57 I think he wanted the hound to get onto tower for chip in a short amount of time, because other wise he might've gotten rocket cycled. 
  For 6:33, he went for an aggressive lavaloon push because he knew the Queen was 2-3 cycles away from getting into the hand. Like he said "Let's bomb rush it".
  If you count 9:19, then it was probably to get significantly ahead compared to the opponents hound push. I'm unclear about this one. 
  10:02 is self explained. 
  13:12, I think he wanted to do a hound skele drag push since he was 4 cycles from it, but the bird came out so he just did a Hound bird push because you can never trust those autistic skeleton dragons. 
  14:03 to be aggressive, OR he was looking to split the opponent's skeleton king push by going opposite side, forced him to play defense and offense at the same time. 
  16:54 to tank from the queen.

== Lavahound + Miner ==

{| class="wikitable" width="100%"
|-
! width=520px | Lava miner
| rowspan=2 |
* Current best deck since season 44, February 2023.
* '''barbarians''' are much easier to master than the '''skeletonking''', and also usually have more favorable matchups.
|-
|
[[File:cr-lavahound.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-miner.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-barbarians.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-flyingmachine.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-skeletondragons.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-phoenix.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-tombstone.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-arrows.png|60px]]
<br/>
|-
! width=520px | Lava miner
| rowspan=2 |
* Current best deck since season 40, october 2022.
|-
|
[[File:cr-lavahound.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-miner.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-skeletonking.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-flyingmachine.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-skeletondragons.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-phoenix.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-tombstone.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-arrows.png|60px]]
<br/>
|-
! width=520px | Lava miner
| rowspan=2 |
* Old best Lava miner.
* Variant with '''valkyrie''' instead of '''skeletonking'''.
* My best deck in old ladder system.
|-
|
[[File:cr-lavahound.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-miner.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-valkyrie.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-flyingmachine.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-skeletondragons.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-megaminion.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-tombstone.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-arrows.png|60px]]
<br/>
|}

=== Spell - troop damage ===
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! troop              !! arrows (486) + miner (256) !! arrows (486) + flyingmachine (227)
|-
| archerqueen (1330) || arrows + 4x miner          || arrows + 4x flyingmachine
|-
| musketeer (955)    || arrows + 2x miner          || arrows + 3x flyingmachine
|}

=== General tips ===
* General
:* Don't be too aggressive in x1. Don't throw in a '''lavahound''', but instead take opportunity of good counter-push with smaller troops (eg. '''flyingmachine''' behind a '''phoenix'''). If OPP overcommits and is low on elixir, add a '''lavahound''' in front of the troop in next push.
:* Against lot of anti-air cards ('''wizard''', '''witch''', '''executioner'''), BAIT these card out first instead of going with a lavahound [https://youtu.be/_3hGPmgc8DQ?t=455].
:* Don't overcommit on defense either.
* '''flyingmachine''':
:* play in the pocket to target tower, or counter enemy air troop.
* '''miner''':
:* Better play in the back, this allows to later send a '''flyingmachine''' and target the tower even if opponent defends the miner.
:* Also better in the back to TANK for the lava pups (less '''tornado''' value).
* Safer to go for TWO crowns.
* First play:
:* '''miner''' 6+4 outer square ('''tornado''' safe).
:* '''lavahound''' is ok, if at least '''tombstone''' as 5th card.
:* hand: miner, lavahound, phoenix, skeletondragons (tombstone): '''skeletondragons''' on '''princess'''.
:* hand: skeletonking, phoenix, flyingmachine, arrows (tombstone): '''skeletonking''' on '''hogrider'''.
:* hand: miner, tombstone, skeletonking, phoenix (arrows): '''miner''' on 6+4, then '''phoenix''' behind KT, opp lane (reply to deep '''princess''').
:* hand: lavahound, phoenix, flyingmachine, arrows (tombstone): '''lavahound'''.
:* hand: miner, tombstone, skeletonking, skeletondragons (lavahound): '''miner''' 6+4.
:* hand: tombstone, skeletonking, phoenix, flyingmachine (lavahound): '''phoenix''' KT on '''bomber''' KT.
:* hand: miner, lavahound, flyingmachine, skeletondragons (tombstone): '''miner''' 6+4.
:* hand: miner, lavahound, flyingmachine, skeletondragons (skeletonking): '''miner''' 6+4 on '''icespirit + thelog''' same lane.
:* hand: tombstone, skeletonking, phoenix, flyingmachine (arrows): '''tombstone''' 3-3.
:* hand: skeletonking, phoenix, flyingmachine, arrows (tombstone): '''skeletonking''' 6+5 on '''icespirit'''.
:* hand: miner, tombstone, phoenix, arrows (lavahound): '''miner''' 6+4.
:* hand: lavahound, tombstone, flyingmachine, arrows (skeletondragons): '''tombstone''' on '''skeletonbarrel''', then '''lavahound''' opposite lane on '''goblinbarrel'''.
:* hand: miner, skeletonking, flyingmachine, skeletondragons (phoenix): '''miner''' 6+4
:* hand: miner, skeletonking, flyingmachine, arrows (skeletondragons): '''miner''' 6+4
:* hand: miner, flyingmachine, skeletondragons, arrows (phoenix): '''flyingmachine''' KT on '''bomber''' KT.
* Against '''barbarian''' at bridge: 
:* '''skeletondragons''' 3+5, or '''skeletonking''' 4-3.
* Against '''princess''':
:* '''flyingmachine''' ALWAYS same lane as lava, and BEHIND lava (up to 3rd row, depends on '''princess''' position).
* Against '''giantskeleton''' in the back:
:* '''tombstone''' 4-3 when GS on the bridge, then OUTER '''flyingmachine''' 1+5.
:* Or '''phoenix''' 7+5 when GS on 7th row, then '''tombstone''' 3-3.
* Against '''musketeer''': 
:* usually not good value to defend NAKED '''musketeer''' with '''skeletondragons'''. However, good play if OPP has to defend them (eg. because his tower is very low HP, ~200).
:* Kill: '''arrows''' + '''flyingmachine''' can target '''musketeer''' if she is 7+5, 7+4, 7-0, etc.
* Against '''hogrider''':
:* If tombstone 3-3, '''skeletonking''' 6-1 may help getting a BODY BLOCK, hence preventing '''hogrider''' to reach tower.
* Against '''graveyard''':
:* Play '''skeletondragons''' on '''graveyard''' CENTER (typically 9+4)
* Against '''darkprince''':
:* DO NOT PLAY '''tombstone''' without KNOWING OPP deck. '''tombstone''' is OK is OPP does NOT have '''electrogiant'''.
* Against '''archerqueen''':
:* '''lavahound''' 9+5 when '''archerqueen''' going to enter the bridge [https://youtu.be/j1RgfJV46so?t=1341].
* Against '''skeletonbarrel''':
:* '''skeletondragons''' 7+4, flawless defense [https://youtu.be/j1RgfJV46so?t=2104]
* '''Skeletonking''': 
:* ability when on 4th row (unless '''valkyrie''' between tower and SK).
:* Good to play '''skeletonking''' before lava pups, to charge the king.
* Play HIGH LAVA when wanting to keep pressure.
:* Keep an eye on elixir, play defensive troop at appropriate height, so that to convert into lava push when possible (aim to get 7 elixir when troop reaches the river).

=== Matchup guides ===

==== logbait - Ryley (mightyminer, rocket) ====
* deck: https://royaleapi.com/decks/stats/cannon,goblin-barrel,goblins,ice-spirit,mighty-miner,princess,rocket,the-log/players/ratings
* videos: [https://youtu.be/j1RgfJV46so?t=30 Ultimate Lava Miner Guide 2023 - Carl the Legend]
* videos: [https://youtu.be/j1RgfJV46so?t=2395 Ultimate Lava Miner Guide 2023 - Carl the Legend]
:* TODO: WATCH AGAIN
* May ignore '''goblinbarrel''' during lavahound push (unless tanked).
* '''rocket''': Abuse '''flyingmachine''' because opponent has no good response ('''rocket''' is +2).
* Typical push: '''lavahound''', then '''flyingmachine''' (usually rocket'ed), then '''phoenix''' and '''miner''' in the back to support lavapups.
* Usually:
:* Keep '''tombstone''' for '''mightyminer''', and '''skeletonking''' for'''goblinbarrel'''.
:* '''tombstone''' can be played in the back if '''mightminer''' ability already out. Otherwise play center.
* Make value with '''flyingmachine''' to target '''goblinbarrel''' and/or '''princess''', but always play it BEHIND the lavahound.
* Opponent will likely play '''mightyminer''' + ability to defend the lavapups. 
:* As a prediction, wait for '''mightyminer''', and play '''skeletonking''' at the bridge to collect lavapups souls.
* if '''goblinbarrel + icespirit''', MUST defend (eg. '''arrows''')
* CENTER '''flyingmachine''' 3-3, very good against '''mightyminer'''.
* Do NOT give '''rocket''' value, ABUSE the '''flyingmachine'''.
* '''miner''' in the back, also good to TANK from '''princess''' behind king tower.

==== random - Hogrider (fireball, arrows) ====
* deck: hogrider, fireball, arrows, electrowizard, valkyrie, pekka
* videos: [https://youtu.be/j1RgfJV46so?t=189 Ultimate Lava Miner Guide 2023 - Carl the Legend]
* Keep track of spells.
:* Play bait cards ('''flyingmachine''', '''skeletondragons''') in sequence to bait '''fireball'''. Play one card, then the other one after '''fireball''' baited.
:* Don't give spell value! Play '''flyingmachine''' far from lavahound (eg. center).
* Defend '''hogrider''' with '''tombstone''' (4-2) or '''phoenix'''.

==== random - princess, miner (barbarian, valkyrie) ====
* videos: [https://youtu.be/j1RgfJV46so?t=400 Ultimate Lava Miner Guide 2023 - Carl the Legend]
* Make value with '''flyingmachine''' on the '''princess''', always play same lane as lavahound.

==== random - hogrider (giantskeleton, musketeer, bombtower, thelog) ====
* videos: [https://youtu.be/j1RgfJV46so?t=542 Ultimate Lava Miner Guide 2023 - Carl the Legend]
* Defend '''giantskeleton''' with '''tombstone''' and another aerian troop (eg. '''flyingmachine''' 1+5, in particular if lava push ongoing so that its get soon value).
* Use '''miner''' to increase '''flyingmachine''' value if possible.

==== graveyard - no damage (babydragon, icewizard, poison) ====
* videos: [https://youtu.be/j1RgfJV46so?t=724 Ultimate Lava Miner Guide 2023 - Carl the Legend]
* Deep '''lavahound''' on '''babydragon'''.
* On '''graveyard''' (+'''barbarianbarrel'''), if '''lavahound''' push same lane, '''skeletondragons''' good play for counter push.
:* If OPP does '''poison''', '''skeletonking''' + '''flyingmachine''' at the bridge (king to take aggro for the pups).
* Always try to kill '''icewizard''' first (eg. with '''miner''').
* If '''babydragon''' and '''icewizard''' are out, go for '''flyingmachine''' + '''lavahound''' push
:* For instance, OPP plays '''icewizard''', and then '''babydragon''' opposite lane. We can defend this baby with '''flyingmachine''', and add '''lavahound''' at river.

;Tips from lavahub players:
* Better to push same lane.
* Rotate '''flyingmachine''' and '''skeletondragons''' more apart to avoid giving value to '''poison'''.
* Place '''miner''' higher up so to spread more attacks.

==== electrogiant ====
* videos: [https://youtu.be/j1RgfJV46so?t=809 Ultimate Lava Miner Guide 2023 - Carl the Legend]
* videos: [https://youtu.be/j1RgfJV46so?t=2583 Ultimate Lava Miner Guide 2023 - Carl the Legend]
:* WATCH AGAIN
* Example game:
:* deep center '''bomber''', deep '''phoenix''' center. OPP plays deep '''phoenix''', we play deep '''lavahound''' corner.
:* Opp plays deep '''goldenknight''', we play '''flyingmachine''' center to kill phoenix egg, opp plays '''cannon''' to kill our egg.
:* We play '''skeletonking''' 1+5 to tank for GK charge. GK is depop by SK and machine.
:* Opp plays '''electrogiant''' to tank for SK + machine, we defend with '''tombstone''' 5-2, then '''skeletondragon''' BEHIND the giant, and AFTER the opp played '''tornado''' on our lava push. 
:* NOTE: better play would have been to '''lightning''' our push.
* Do not give '''tornado''' value. Play '''tombstone''' 4-3, but '''flyingmachine''' 1+5.
* AFTER '''lightning''', play '''phoenix'''.
* AFTER '''tornade''', play '''skeletondragons''', but between bridge and giant.

==== Royal hogs Recruits bait (motherwitch, flyingmachine) ====
* videos: [https://youtu.be/j1RgfJV46so?t=1019 Ultimate Lava Miner Guide 2023 - Carl the Legend]
* In lava push, ok to let '''royalhogs''' connect, with '''flyingmachine''' to defend, but SAME lane as lavahound.
* '''motherwitch''': kill her with '''arrows''' + '''miner'''.
* TODO: watch again.

==== x-bow  ====
* videos: [https://youtu.be/j1RgfJV46so?t=1319  Ultimate Lava Miner Guide 2023 - Carl the Legend] (archerqueen, valkyrie thelog, tornado, rocket, icespirit)
* videos: [https://youtu.be/j1RgfJV46so?t=1652 Ultimate Lava Miner Guide 2023 - Carl the Legend]
:* WATCH AGAIN
* If tanking '''archerqueen''' with '''lavahound''', can go for '''skeletondragons''' counter push.
:* Then add '''skeletonking''' to collect lava pups. If opponent defends the  '''skeletonking''' but it is close enough, '''miner''' in the back and trigger ABILITY.
* After '''tombstone''', don't forget to play '''lavahound''' a little bit HIGHER (7+5).

==== goblingiant sparky (elitebarbarians, electrowizard, rage) ====
* videos: [https://youtu.be/j1RgfJV46so?t=1471 Ultimate Lava Miner Guide 2023 - Carl the Legend]
* When no '''tombstone''', defend '''goblingiant + sparky''' with '''flyingmachine''', '''phoenix''' and if needed '''skeletondragons''' to target extra river troops.

==== Double prince giant (miner, arrows, zap) ====
* videos: [https://youtu.be/j1RgfJV46so?t=1842 Ultimate Lava Miner Guide 2023 - Carl the Legend]
* Send '''skeletonking''' opposite lane, when '''lavahound''' is going to die, to collect pups soul in time for SK ability (4th row).

==== logbait - skeletonbarrel + goblinbarrel + princess (infernotower, goblingang, princess, dartgoblin) ====
* videos: [https://youtu.be/j1RgfJV46so?t=2048 Ultimate Lava Miner Guide 2023 - Carl the Legend]
* Play very DEFENSIVELY, do NOT send lavahound pushes, it's useless.
* Always go same lane.
* Use '''flyingmachine''' to kill '''princess''' on opposite lane. Try to tank machine with '''phoenix''' or other.
* Play offense '''skeletonking''' if '''valkyrie''' out-of-the-hand.
* Try to keep '''arrows''' for value in the offense (try to it TWO troops).

==== hogrider 2.6 ====
* videos: [https://youtu.be/j1RgfJV46so?t=2300 Ultimate Lava Miner Guide 2023 - Carl the Legend]
* Go for '''lavahound''' + '''phoenix''' push (do NOT go for '''flyingmachine''' or '''skeletondragons'''), because of the '''fireball'''.
:* '''flyingmachine''' 7-4 SAME lane to defend '''hogrider''' is ok of course

==== lavaclone ====
* Don't push in the same lane. [https://youtu.be/-UWtdW1pYXI?t=665]
* Try to prevent OPP getting good value from clone (use '''arrows''' to kill lava and pups).

==== graveyard ====
* Very though. Better not push in the same lane. [https://youtu.be/-UWtdW1pYXI?t=221].

==== Mighty miner, miner, wallbreakers, archers, poison ====
; Innvader, playing with barbarians [https://youtu.be/_3hGPmgc8DQ?t=10]
* In 1x, difficult match up. Be very careful about the lava, and play defense mostly. Make sure to wrap up the mightyminer pushes as needed.
* Only apply pressure when OPP doesn't have mightyminer in the hand anymore. 
* When one tower down, play barbarians very low between king and princess tower to deal with both options against mightyminer (when it is played in the outer corner).
* Keep arrows against '''archers''' in general.
* For offense, use '''phoenix''' as final support card since it doesn't die to '''poison''', and make sure to have played '''miner''' in the back, so that any defense troop is kited away from the '''phoenix''', which can then lock on the tower.

== Lavahound + Balloon (Rakan) ==

{| class="wikitable" width="100%"
|-
! width=520px | Ladder deck - Lava
| rowspan=2 |
|-
* Best lava deck last season played by EA Rakan Lava (#9, L9P08G82U, [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLVoU4uacu0mzo2jiLYL55A/featured YouTube]). Played this season by FRANK ALICIA (#13, 8U00VQRLC), <c3>Kou<c4>bele (#106, YQJL8PPG)
|
[[File:cr-lavahound.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-infernodragon.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-miner.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-balloon.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-barbarians.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-skeletondragons.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-arrows.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-zap.png|60px]]<br/>
[[File:cr-lavahound.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-minionhorde.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-miner.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-balloon.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-barbarians.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-minions.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-arrows.png|60px]]
[[File:cr-zap.png|60px]]
|}

* '''balloon''': Played in front of Skdrag, it is pushed forward faster! '''balloon''' can also be used as mini-tank, eg. to protect the puppies, or to protect '''minions''' / horde behind.
* '''miner''': When playing for tank, don't play on tower but '''play at 5-2''' inside placement (front of K) to tank damage of troop first (eg. if opp plays a defending troop low enough in front of K tower)
* Alternative: '''infernodragon''' <-> '''Horde''', '''SkDrag''' <-> '''minions'''.
:* Deck with horde is super aggressive: usually go for trade.
* Against '''golem''': Play Barbarian @ bridge, then '''miner''' on tower (5-1 inside placement, not sure why) -> tower down. 
* Replay [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-cG23ITlN-g]:
* Replay [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4FiP2i8pW2s]:
* Replay [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eWZeGfQT7Nk]:
* Replay [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HyKkDImvNAw 8000 top8 (15min)]:
* Replay [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GPfqeCS8rdE 8000k top3 (7min)]: 
:* 1st game, opening with '''lavahound''', ignore '''miner''', defend '''knight''' with '''barbarians'''. Use '''skeletondragons'''Against '''darkprince''' at 3-0 placement and if possible '''miner''' at same spot to tank damage. Otherwise '''miner''' to tank damage for Lava Pups. '''arrows''' to weaken '''electrowizard'''. Against tank (like '''giant'''), '''infernodragon''' bottom when '''giant''' leaving tower behind, and if '''giant''' defended by '''megaminion''', use '''balloon''' at river to distract it.
:* 2nd game, 2 spells, '''infernodragon'''/barbs in hand, so '''zap''' on tower. Against '''elitebarbarians''' + spirit''', '''barbarians''' dropped on them then ignore if surviver. On '''giant''' + '''sparky''', '''infernodragon''' on '''giant''', then '''skeletondragons''' on '''sparky''', but was countered by '''electrowizard''' + '''tornado'''. Later '''barbarians''' on '''sparky''' to remove it. '''miner''' on King's tower to tank damage for puppies and also protect '''barbarians''' coming up. Later opp still very aggressive, '''balloon''' on King's and '''zap''' to reset the '''sparky'''.
:* 3rd game: '''lavahound''', '''balloon''', '''zap''', '''miner''' in hand, play '''lavahound''' as 1st card. Opp with '''sparky''' and '''goblingiant''', countered with '''skeletondragons''' bottom (when '''giant''' on last tile before bridge), then '''zap''' and '''barbarians''' on '''sparky''' to reset/kill it. Add a '''balloon''' on group, and later '''miner''' between K and P tower to tank damage. 2nd round of '''elitebarbarians''' + '''healspirit''', defended with '''skeletondragons'''. Opp defend with '''electrowizard''' + '''rage''', Rakan plays '''barbarians''' very high center, then '''arrows''' to weaken '''electrowizard'''.
* Replay with Horde [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IiOm9t6a7lc]:
* Replay with Horde [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3yRCu0EGnLQ]:
* Replay with Horde [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b5KSmRSpjzQ top1 7896 (22min)]:
:* 1st game (Horde): both spells, '''miner''', minion in hand, play '''zap''' on opp's '''goblins'''. Now Barbs in hand. Wait. At 1'20, '''miner''' on tower, countered with '''valkyrie''', which is then defended with '''minions''' at bridge. Opp. plays '''MArcher''' and '''Breakers''' and '''miner''', Breakers killed with '''arrows''' (I guess here the logic is to counter V with M for +1 trade, and -1 trade against Breakers to avoid too much damage). '''lavahound''' opposite lane, while on other lane wait for '''miner''' + (new) '''goblins''', Marcher killed by tower, to play '''Horde''' against a new '''valkyrie'''. On lava lane, '''balloon''' right behind at bridge, then '''minions''' and '''zap''' to kill '''Spear '''goblins'''. Then '''miner''' and '''Horde''' on same lane. Finally a 2nd '''lavahound''', and '''balloon''', because in fact opp cannot make deadly attack anyway.
:* 2nd game (Horde): Lava, Barbs, '''minions''', '''arrows''' in hand, play '''lavahound'''. Opp plays '''miner''' and '''guards''' opposite lane, countered at 5+2 with '''Barbs'''. Opp plays a '''dartgoblin''' center, weakened by Barbs, and finished with '''zap'''. On Lava lane, send '''Horde''' at bridge, against '''bats''' and '''cannoncart''', and a '''miner''' in time to tank damage. Keep pushing '''lavahound''' on the same lane, while defending with '''minions''', '''Horde''', '''miner''' on the other lane to avoid massive damage, and when possible send a '''balloon''' on the opposite lane so that opp has no option to defend Lava, which takes tower.
:* 3rd game (Horde): '''arrows''', Horde, Lava, '''miner''' in hand, play '''Horde''' at tower against a '''hogrider'''. '''lavahound''' played same lane, opp defend with '''musketeer''' and '''cannon'''. Play '''miner''' against '''musketeer''', and '''arrows''' to finish it. Then play '''balloon''' to tank damage, opp. kills everything with '''musketeer''' and '''fireball''', now low on elixir. Wait for 2nd round of '''hogrider''', countered with '''Barbs''' (note, '''musketeer''' was '''Zapped'''), then play '''lavahound''' low. Note opp cycle is: '''hogrider''', then Skeleton mid river, and Log on bridge. When Lava crosses, '''minions''' and '''balloon''' behind (not in hand), and '''miner''' in the back of P tower. Opp defends with skel, '''cannon''', '''icegolem''', all nice, and manage to activate it's K tower. Opp sends '''hogrider''' and '''Ice   '''golem''', defended with '''Barbs''', which are '''fireballed''', which is immediat ely countered with '''minions'''. On last attempt, solitary '''hogrider''' countered with '''miner''' at tower, and '''arrows'''.
:* 4th game (Horde): '''arrows''', Lava, '''balloon''', Horde in hand, opp plays '''bandit''', play '''lavahound''' opposite lane. '''bandit''' and then '''Breakers''' not countered, but '''miner''' and '''Spear '''goblins''' on lava lane countered with '''arrows'''. '''bats''' on Lava, defended with '''minions'''. Opp plays '''musketeer''' and '''zap''' in that lane. Play '''Horde''' at 4+5, and immediately '''balloon''' at 1 +0 on opposite lane. In general, '''bandit''' never defended unless troop available (I guess she dies too quickly after she connects). '''lavahound''' played low, then '''minions''' played very low when Lava shadow is touching 3rd row from river (I guess for opportunity of defense?), and a '''balloon''' right behind '''lavahound''' on river, then '''miner''' and '''arrows''' as support. Last push with '''balloon''', had '''zap''' in hand to defend against '''bats'''.
:* 5th game (Horde): Lava, '''arrows''', '''balloon''', Barbs in hand, play '''lavahound''' low. Opp. plays '''knight''' opposite lane, then '''firecracker''' low on Lava's lane, and finally '''hogrider''' on '''knight'''s lane. '''hogrider''' and '''knight''' not defended, but '''arrows''' on '''firecracker''', and '''balloon''' behind Lava. This trades tower. Opp plays '''bombtower''', '''Snow Ball''' on '''balloon''', and '''firecracker''' low. Play '''miner''' on '''firecracker''', countered immediately by '''knight''' (predicted, good play). Play '''lavahound''' opposite lane, while '''knight''' + '''firecracker''' and a new '''hogrider''' countered by '''Barbs''', dropped on '''knight'''. '''firecracker''' countered with '''arrows''', and '''balloon''' center high right on '''bombtower'''. Finish with '''Horde''' center high, and '''miner''' on K tower, '''zap''' and '''arrows''' on new '''firecracker'''.
:* 6th game (Horde): Lava, '''zap''', Horde and '''miner''' in hand. Opp plays '''miner''', play '''lavahound''' same lane ('''miner''' ignored). Opp plays '''MArcher''' low, play '''Minion''' (but next to Lava, but why not more on the side? To avoid being distracted?), and '''balloon''' then asap '''miner'''. Opp plays '''valkyrie''' and '''Breaker''', countered with '''arrows'''. Opp plays '''Marcher''' then '''miner''' to tank damage, countered by '''Barbs''' dropped on Marcher. Next '''lavahound''' low on P tower lane, defending '''Marcher''' countered with '''miner''', then '''balloon''', '''Horde''' (in meantime, '''Breakers''' + '''valkyrie''' had to be ignored opp lane). At each opp reaction, add a troop.   
:* 7th game (Horde): Barbs, Lava, '''miner''', '''arrows''' in hand. Opp plays '''bandit''' low, play '''miner''' low same lane. Then '''lavahound''' opp lane, opp plays '''electrowizard''' low same lane. Play '''Barbs''' at bridge to take '''electrowizard''', while opp plays '''ramrider''' low same lane, and later '''babydragon''' against Barbs. Play '''balloon''' at bridge, opp counters with '''electrowizard''', so play '''Horde''' at bridge as well (outside, to avoid distraction), this kills a '''bandit''' at bridge! Opp plays '''ramrider''', immediately countered with '''Barbs''' played very high. Opp plays '''babydragon''' and '''pekka'''. This is countered with '''Minion''' low, and '''miner''' in the back of baby, then '''Horde''' on '''pekka'''. Finally '''ramrider''' countered with '''Barbs''' while Baby is shot down by tower. '''lavahound''' played center low, but same side as Baby to distract, while playing '''Horde''' against Baby. 
:* 8th game (Horde): both spells, '''miner''', '''balloon''' in hand. Opp plays '''bandit''' low, play '''miner''' low same lane. Opp plays '''goblindrill''' opp lane, countered with '''Barbs'''.  '''lavahound''' played low, while on opp lane '''bandit''' and '''MArcher''' not defended. Opp plays '''infernodragon''' on Lava, at same time drop '''balloon''' at bridge, and '''miner''' ''in the back'' (-+ column), while '''zap''' '''infernodragon''' to keep Lava tank while '''balloon''' connects. Opp plays is ignored, while Pups take down the '''infernodragon''', '''miner''' tanks damage for '''balloon''', and play '''Horde''' center high to take P tower as well. '''arrows''' on last opp attack to get rid of swarm.

* Replay with Horde [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LcHTY5CiajQ 4th place again (9min)]:
:* 1st game (Horde): both '''minions''', barbs and '''miner''', '''miner''' on tower to harass. Opp plays '''electrogiant''' high, opposite lane, so '''minions''' (5-0 placement), then '''balloon''' such that it is pushed by '''minions'''. Drop '''barbarians''' on '''electrogiant''', then '''Horde''' on '''darkprince''', ''on the left to avoid '''electrogiant''' attack''. When Horde push back, '''miner''' at ''5-2 placement to tank damage in prediction of '''icewizard'''! 2nd '''lavahound''' on same lane, although other tower had lower HP (prob. to allow counter attack on that weaker tower, or because opp will play '''electrogiant''' on same lane again). Opp. builds a mega push, with '''darkknight''', '''babydragon''', '''tornado''', only defended with '''barbarians''' on '''knight'''. Then '''miner''' on 2nd tower, '''minions''' played high center, and finally '''balloon''' on K tower.
:* 2nd game ('''infernodragon''' deck): Lava, '''infernodragon''', '''zap''', '''barbarians''', play '''lavahound'''. Opp. plays '''elitebarbarians''', countered with '''Barbs''' dropped on 5+2 timed correctly. '''speargoblins''' on Lava, countered with '''zap'''. '''bomber''' on opposite lane, opp. sends also '''miner''' to tank... countered by '''Skel drag''' to kill '''bomber''' (but strangely they miss the '''miner'''). '''balloon''' on the other side, opp. plays '''elitebarbarians''', countered with '''miner''' to reduce damage. '''arrows''' to clean last '''elitebarbarians''', '''royaldelivery''' and '''speargoblins'''. Opp. makes several pushes with '''elitebarbarians''' + spirit or Ebars + '''bomber''', always drop '''Barbs''' on the splash first to cancel it!
:* 3rd game ('''infernodragon''' deck): '''miner''', '''arrows''', '''skeletondragons''', Barbs in hand, '''miner''' to harass tower. Opp plays '''royalghost''', defended with '''skeletondragons'''. Lot of defensive play against '''royalghost''', '''RG''', '''Fisher''' using '''Skel Drag''', '''Barbs'''. First offensive with '''balloon''' alone, countered by '''tesla''' (in 4-2), then another '''balloon''' behind a '''miner''' (used as defense), against countered with '''tesla'''. Finally 1st '''lavahound''' when opp plays '''Fisher''' at bridge opposite lane, defended with '''Barbs''' on tower, then opp plays '''royalghost''' same lane as Lava, countered with '''infernodragon'''. '''tesla''' countered with '''miner''' on it, to let '''balloon''' connect. When offensive goes on, '''Barbs''' played center high, a '''balloon''' on tower center high, then '''arrows''' to weaken '''tesla'''. 
* Replay with ??? [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IMeh1nxp0Xk Attacks top 20 (12min)]:
* Replay with ??? [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-mvMfodssKM Access to 7000 cups at lvl12 (12min)]:
* Opening:
:* '''zap''' often played on a tower if in starting hand. (I guess to cycle in another card?)

== Log bait ==
=== General strategy ===
* In x1, keep '''rocket''' for defense only. Unless value on OPP tower (eg. on '''princess''' in the back). Rocket cycle only in x3 (or x2).
* If '''infernotower''', keep it for OPP win condition. If using it for something else (eg. '''megaknight'''), defend it as much as possible.
* Against strong deck, focus on defense. And try to grind some damage with '''goblinbarrel''' and '''princess''' (in particular if OPP doesn't have '''thelog''' or similar). Then outcycle in x2 and x3.
* Try to play '''princess''' in opposite lane of OPP push. This will protect her, and force a response later on.

=== Tips ===
* Free '''rocket''': Against '''princess''' in the back, '''rocket''' her and the tower [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j1hiGeS7bSY&lc=UgzVH1yH6isJaCEhYj14AaABAg.9jTDfkJM8NJ9jTttUm1ucK]. Opp won't be able to punish effectively. Only make sure to have '''thelog''' in cycle in case they rush after.
* Synergy '''goblinbarrel''' + '''goblingang''': aim the barrel in the BACK of the tower, so that any defending troop will go backwards, and the goblingang will aggro the TOWER. Particularly effective if OPP doesn't have '''thelog''' in cycle.
* Use '''rocket''' to OBLITERATE pushes.

== Log bait (Ryley's) ==
Deck is: '''goblinbarrel''', '''princess''',  '''mightyminer''', '''goblins''', '''icespirit''', '''cannon''', '''rocket''', '''thelog'''.

=== Tips ===
Tips against midladder random decks (From [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o6OOL63KeJM YT members]):
* Be more passwive and defend more. They'll mess up and present good opportunities.
* Abuse '''princess''', learn how to use it effectively.
* Don't go too hard, play safe, focus on defense.
* Focus on how to spend elixir.
* Might help to play the '''valkyrie''' and '''infernotower''' variant (lots of '''witch''' and '''megaknight''').
* Play way more passive until we know the deck and track their cycle.
* Don't use rocket until we know OPP entire deck. Activate king tower against megaknight.
* 4 main bad matchups are: xbow, mortar, recruits, graveyard.

=== Interactions ===
* '''witch''': '''thelog''' then '''icespirit'''.
* '''magicarcher''': '''thelog''' and '''princess''' + '''icespirit''' (or 2x '''princess''').

== Mortar ==
* Never additional building
* Either '''miner''' + '''poison''' or '''rocket''' + '''tornado'''.

== Pekka bridge spam (pekka bs) ==
* Deck: '''pekka''', '''battleram''', '''bandit''', '''royalghost''' (or '''darkprince'''), '''electrowizard''', '''zap'''.

=== Double barrel ===
;Main strategy
* Dcp en x1 faut accepter les dégâts des fûts (ewiz sur gobs zap sur squelettes) et mettre de tps en tps voleuse au pont pour forcer une react puis en x2 vu que tu commences à être plus à l’aise faut accélérer le jeu avec battle ram etc. pour qu’il ne puisse plus agresser,…
* En gros x1 accepter les dégâts et x2 x3 à son tour de subir