How to play Homescapes : The mobile game

 

Homescapes Game Introduction

I'm excited to share insights about "Homescapes," a mobile game I've been playing daily for years. I'll cover its gameplay, tips, and key features.  

1. Game Information

Google Play Store Link

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.playrix.homescapes&pcampaignid=web_share

Homescapes, developed by Playrix, has garnered over 100 million downloads worldwide. While I've also tried other titles from the same developer, like 'Township' and 'Gardenscapes', none of them have captivated me quite like Homescapes.  

2.  Gameplay-Video is attached

a. Basic Gameplay

• The core gameplay involves matching three or more blocks of the same color to clear them. To beat each stage, you must complete the mission shown on the left side of the screen within the given number of turns. Objectives range from clearing a specific number of blocks to using special items or breaking obstacles. 

• Hearts System: You start with five hearts. Failing a stage deducts one heart, and it takes 30 minutes for a heart to replenish.  

• Refilling Hearts: When you run out, you can request hearts from team members or spend 900 coins to refill five hearts.  
• Additional Moves:  If you're close to completing a stage, you can spend 900 coins to gain extra moves. The number of additional moves increases with repeated attempts, from 5 up to 35.  

b. Updates 

Playrix releases game updates every Friday. Players who finish all available stages can participate in the 'Champion Tournament' until the next update. Rankings in the tournament grant special rewards like items or coins, keeping players engaged between updates.

Champion Tournament Rankings

3.  In-App Purchases

There are various in-app purchases available depending on the situation, but here are the two most useful ones.

a. Season Pass

The 'Season Pass', which lasts around three weeks, offers various perks:  

- Increases your maximum hearts from 5 to 8 during the season.  

- Grants extra rewards like unlimited hearts, coins, and items.  

Regular Price

While the regular price is ₩12,000, waiting for a surprise discount can make it more affordable. After the first week, a weekend sale often offers the pass at a 37.5% discount (₩7,500). Taking advantage of these discounts makes the Season Pass a cost-effective option for dedicated players.  

Discounted Price

b. Weekend Sale

Weekend Sale

Weekend bundles typically combine unlimited hearts with coins, essential for extending moves after failed stages. These bundles are attractively priced, starting at around ₩2,500. Accumulated Play Store points from purchases can also be used to reduce the cost of future in-app purchases.

4. Game Tips

a.Combining Special Items

Combining the 'Rainbow Ball', which clears all blocks of a chosen color, with other special items amplifies its effects. For instance, pairing it with a Rocket or Bomb creates multiple explosions, making it easier to clear challenging stages.  

- Super Rainbow Ball Event:

  During this event, the Rainbow Ball eliminates blocks of two colors simultaneously. Use this strategically to maximize its impact.  

b. Gaining Additional Moves 

If you're out of hearts, you can repeatedly attempt a stage when unlimited hearts are active. However, when you're short on moves and have only one heart left, spending coins for extra moves can be a smart strategy. Repeated failures increase the number of additional moves available, up to 35, making it easier to clear tough stages.  

5. Pros and Cons

a. Cautions 

While in-app purchases enhance gameplay, they should be used sparingly. Stick to your budget to avoid unnecessary expenses.  

b.  Cons 

- Misleading Game Description:

  Although Homescapes includes home decoration elements, it is fundamentally a puzzle game. This can mislead players seeking a purely decoration-focused game.  

-Unlimited Hearts Issue:  

  The lack of a pause function for unlimited hearts is frustrating. Players often waste them unintentionally, so a storage feature would be a welcome addition.  

c. Pros    

- No Ads:

Homescapes avoids intrusive ads, creating a smooth gameplay experience.  

- Music-Friendly:

  The game allows your phone's music to play uninterrupted, which is rare among mobile games.  

- Engaging Features for Long-Term Players:

  The Champion Tournament keeps players entertained after completing all stages.  

- Generous Rewards:

  Daily rewards are split into weekly and monthly rotations, offering plenty of incentives to log in regularly.  

6. Overall Review

Homescapes is a globally beloved puzzle game that offers engaging features for both solo players and team participants. The ability to freely join and leave teams without penalties is particularly accommodating.  

With regular updates and thoughtful design elements, Homescapes remains a favorite mobile game for many. I look forward to seeing more stages added weekly to keep the experience fresh and exciting.