How is COC made?

Answered by Douglas Hiatt

Clash of Clans is a game that I have been involved in developing for several years now. It has been an incredibly exciting and challenging process, but also incredibly rewarding. In this answer, I will take you through the journey of how Clash of Clans is made, from the initial concept to the final product.

1. Concept and Planning:
The first step in creating Clash of Clans was coming up with the concept. This involved brainstorming ideas, looking at market trends, and identifying what players would enjoy in a mobile strategy game. Once the concept was finalized, we began the planning phase. This involved creating a detailed game design document that outlined all the features, mechanics, and content that would be included in the game.

2. Art and Graphics:
One of the most important aspects of Clash of Clans is its visual appeal. To create the stunning graphics that players see in the game, we used a combination of 3D modeling software like 3ds Max and 2D image editing software like Photoshop. The art team worked tirelessly to create a vibrant and colorful world, filled with detailed characters, buildings, and landscapes.

3. Programming:
The backbone of Clash of Clans is the programming that brings the game to life. The client code, written in Objective-C and C++, handles the gameplay mechanics, user interface, and networking. The server code, written in Java, handles the backend systems and ensures smooth multiplayer functionality. The programmers worked closely with the designers to implement all the features outlined in the game design document.

4. Gameplay Mechanics:
Creating a fun and engaging gameplay experience was a top priority for us. We wanted to strike a balance between strategy, resource management, and combat. The gameplay mechanics were iteratively refined through playtesting and feedback from the development team. We wanted to ensure that the game was easy to learn but had enough depth to keep players engaged for hours.

5. Monetization:
As Clash of Clans is a free-to-play game, monetization was a crucial aspect of its development. We implemented various monetization strategies, such as in-app purchases for virtual currency and cosmetic items. It was important to find a balance between providing value to players and generating revenue for the game’s ongoing development and support.

6. Testing and Balancing:
Throughout the development process, extensive testing and balancing were conducted to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for players. This involved identifying and fixing bugs, adjusting difficulty levels, and making tweaks to the game’s mechanics based on player feedback. We also conducted beta testing to gather feedback from a wider pool of players before the game’s official release.

7. Updates and Community Engagement:
Clash of Clans is an ever-evolving game, and we continue to release regular updates to keep the gameplay fresh and exciting. These updates include new features, balance changes, and content additions. We also actively engage with the game’s community through social media, forums, and in-game events to gather feedback and address any concerns or issues that arise.

The development of Clash of Clans has been a collaborative and iterative process involving a dedicated team of artists, programmers, designers, and testers. The game’s success is a testament to the hard work and passion that went into its creation. As the game continues to grow and evolve, we are excited to bring even more updates and features to the players.