Introduction to the Goblin Cage
The Goblin Cage is a Rare building card in Clash Royale that becomes available upon reaching Arena 1 (Goblin Stadium). It functions as a building that temporarily houses a Goblin Brawler, a powerful troop with high hitpoints and damage output. When the Clash Royale Goblin Cage is destroyed or after its short lifetime expires, the Goblin Brawler is released into the arena. The Goblin Brawler is a single-target, ground-targeting, melee unit known for its fast movement and attack speed, comparable to a Knight in terms of strength. The Goblin Brawler resembles a larger, bulkier Goblin and is known for its fast pace, which can often overwhelm opponents. In a one-on-one fight, it has the advantage over a Knight.
At Level 11, the Goblin Cage has 350 hitpoints, spawns one Goblin Brawler upon its destruction, and gives the Goblin Brawler 485 hitpoints. The Goblin Brawler deals 159 damage with a hit speed of 1.1 seconds. It moves quickly with a short melee range. The Goblin Cage lasts for 20 seconds and costs 4 Elixir.
The Goblin Cage’s main use lies in its ability to deploy a high-damage unit once destroyed, making it an effective tool for both defense and offense. The Goblin Cage remains a valuable card despite recent battle trends suggesting a below-average performance with a win rate of 51.7% and a pick rate of 8.2%. Despite these stats, the card can still be strategically useful depending on deck composition and battle context.
Overview
The Goblin Cage is a Rare building card that costs 4 Elixir to deploy. When placed, it appears as a wooden jail cell holding a Goblin Brawler inside. The Goblin Cage is unlocked once a player reaches Arena 1 (Goblin Stadium), adding it to their card pool. The Goblin Cage has a lifetime of 20 seconds and moderate hitpoints, making it effective for absorbing damage from oncoming enemy troops. Once it is destroyed, either by taking enough damage or after its lifetime expires, a single Goblin Brawler is unleashed into the arena.
The Goblin Brawler is a single-target, ground-targeting, melee troop with high hitpoints and high damage. It is described as a huge, brawny, tattooed Goblin, resembling a larger and bulkier version of a regular Goblin. At Level 11, the Goblin Brawler has 485 hitpoints and 159 damage, with a hit speed of 1.1 seconds and very fast movement. Its attack speed and movement are notably faster than that of a Knight. Upon release, the Goblin Brawler will target and attack opposing troops or buildings nearby.
Strategically, the Goblin Cage is a strong defensive tool, useful for countering various units like Hog Rider or Ram Rider, preventing them from dealing damage to towers. Placing it centrally can help intercept and stop a Mega Knight, with the support of both Crown Towers. On counterpushes, the Goblin Cage can be effective in eliminating tanks like Giants, while the released Goblin Brawler can then act as a tank for supporting troops such as Graveyard or Balloon.
Goblin Cage Mechanics
The defining mechanic of the Goblin Cage is the release of the Goblin Brawler. This happens either when the Goblin Cage is destroyed by taking enough damage from enemy units or buildings or when its 20-second lifetime expires. Upon release, the Goblin Brawler emerges as a single-target, ground-targeting, melee troop. At Level 11, it has 485 hitpoints and deals 159 damage with a hit speed of 1.1 seconds. The Goblin Brawler moves very fast, similar to a Lumberjack, and has a Melee: Short range. Once released, it targets and attacks any opposing troops or buildings nearby.
The Goblin Cage’s hitbox is similar to that of spawner buildings, such as the Goblin Hut, rather than defensive buildings like the Cannon. This allows it to pull building-targeting units (e.g., Hog Rider, Ram Rider) from a slightly farther distance than defensive buildings. While the Goblin Cage doesn’t attack directly, it serves as a passive defensive structure, absorbing damage and distracting enemy units, allowing Crown Towers and other units to deal damage.
Unlike spawner buildings that continuously produce troops, the Goblin Cage only releases one Goblin Brawler upon its destruction or expiration. Understanding these mechanics is essential for using the Goblin Cage effectively in both defensive and offensive strategies.
Strategies for Using the Goblin Cage
The Goblin Cage is a versatile card that can be used in a variety of ways, both defensively and offensively. Understanding its mechanics is crucial for maximizing its potential in battle.
Defensive Strategies
The Goblin Cage excels as a defensive building that also provides a counter-attacking troop. It is best deployed reactively, especially given its short 20-second lifetime. For building-targeting units like the Hog Rider or Ram Rider, place the Goblin Cage in front of them to absorb their damage and prevent them from reaching the tower. The released Goblin Brawler will immediately engage and counter the enemy. For Royal Giant, placing the Goblin Cage directly on top of it can deny one or two hits, while also allowing the Brawler to quickly attack.
Against Battle Ram, the Goblin Cage can absorb its charge, and the Goblin Brawler will help deal with the spawned Barbarians. The Goblin Cage can survive two hits from Elite Barbarians and one hit from a Mini P.E.K.K.A, making it effective for mitigating damage from heavy hitters.
When dealing with Mega Knight, placing the Goblin Cage in the center can stop it with the help of Crown Towers, providing a positive Elixir trade. The Goblin Cage can also pull an entire Minion Horde if placed one tile from the opponent’s side, allowing the Goblin Brawler to kite the Minions while dealing damage. It can also be used to distract ranged troops like Musketeer or Royal Giant, ensuring that the Goblin Brawler attacks immediately upon release, preventing these troops from dealing too much damage. The Goblin Cage can absorb attacks from self-destructive troops like the Battle Ram or Skeleton Barrel, and it can even lure Wall Breakers, saving more valuable units.
Additionally, the Goblin Cage can absorb two Lightning strikes, protecting more vulnerable troops like the Musketeer, and it is a good counter to the Electro Giant, as the Goblin Brawler will emerge to attack once the cage is broken. It can also defend against Mortar or X-Bow by placing the cage in the same lane to allow the Brawler to target their defenders.
Offensive Strategies
Though primarily a defensive card, the Goblin Cage can contribute to counterpushing. After defending an attack, the released Goblin Brawler can transition into an offensive threat. Its very fast speed and high DPS can pressure the opponent and force a response. The Goblin Brawler can also act as a mini-tank for offensive units like Graveyard or Balloon, absorbing damage and allowing these units to reach the tower. When paired with other ground units like Knight or Valkyrie, the Goblin Brawler adds significant damage to a push.
The Goblin Cage can also be used as an investment card to deter aggressive plays from the opponent. Once the cage expires, the released Brawler can support a subsequent attack. If one Crown Tower is down, placing the Goblin Cage in the opponent’s pocket can distract the remaining tower, allowing an attacking troop to target it instead.
General Tips
Be mindful of the Goblin Cage’s short lifetime and avoid placing it too early, as the Goblin Brawler can be easily countered once released. It can sometimes be used as spell bait, forcing the opponent to use spells like Zap or The Log, which could have been used more effectively against other units. Optimal placement is crucial, especially when countering specific units like the Hog Rider or Royal Giant.
Be aware of the Goblin Brawler’s vulnerability to swarm units and dual-lane pushes. Pairing the Brawler with spells like Zap, The Log, or Poison can help clear out swarms. The Goblin Cage is also susceptible to Earthquake, which can destroy it and release the Brawler, as well as Lightning, which can target it and damage the Brawler.
By mastering these strategies and considering the specific matchup, players can effectively utilize the Goblin Cage to gain an edge in battles.
Counters to the Goblin Cage
The Goblin Cage, while a versatile defensive building, has several counters that can effectively neutralize its defensive capabilities and the Goblin Brawler it releases. These counters target both the building itself and the released Brawler, making it essential to understand how to deal with it in various scenarios.
Counters to the Goblin Cage (Building)
Certain spells can counter the Goblin Cage effectively. The Log and Barbarian Barrel are reliable counters that can clear the Goblin Brawler for an equal Elixir trade. Arrows and Earthquake can also eliminate the Brawler, but Earthquake can destroy the Goblin Cage itself, causing the Brawler to be released. However, Earthquake is less cost-efficient compared to other spells unless it hits multiple troops simultaneously. Zap and Giant Snowball can weaken the Goblin Brawler but do not completely eliminate it, making them less effective counters.
Fireball deals significant damage to the Goblin Cage and can help destroy it faster. Lightning is a soft counter to both the Goblin Cage and the Brawler, as it can hit both with two out of three strikes, but it’s a negative Elixir trade unless it also hits other troops. Rocket can damage the Goblin Cage, but a single shot at level 11 will not destroy it; a mirrored Goblin Cage (level 15) can be destroyed with one Rocket.
Counters to the Goblin Brawler (Troops)
Several troops are effective against the Goblin Brawler. Bomber and Valkyrie can instantly wipe out the Brawler due to their area damage. Mini P.E.K.K.A and Lumberjack are strong solo counters, capable of easily taking down the Goblin Brawler. Bowler, with its area damage, can deal with the Brawler, much like it does with other single-target units. Sparky can one-shot the Goblin Brawler, and while the Goblin Cage can tank one of Sparky’s shots, the Brawler will quickly be defeated by the subsequent attack. Skeletons, while weak, can distract and stop the Brawler when placed correctly, and Bats or Minions can also overwhelm it if deployed early enough.
Counters to the Goblin Cage (Buildings)
Certain buildings are also effective against the Goblin Cage. Bomb Tower, with its area damage, can target both the Goblin Brawler and any other nearby troops, making it a solid counter.
General Strategic Counters
The Goblin Brawler is particularly vulnerable to swarm units since it can only target one unit at a time. Skeleton Army, Goblin Gang, and Minion Horde can overwhelm the Brawler due to their sheer numbers. The Goblin Brawler also struggles against dual-lane pushes like Royal Recruits, split Royal Hogs, or split Three Musketeers, as it can only target one unit, allowing the other lane to pressure effectively.
In certain situations, it might be viable to ignore the Goblin Cage if the Goblin Brawler alone does not pose a significant threat, especially if the player has a counter ready. Ram Rider is also an effective counter to the Goblin Cage, as it can immobilize the Brawler and force it away from the Ram, allowing the Ram to reach the tower more easily.
Exploiting the Short Lifetime
The Goblin Cage has a short 20-second lifetime, which can be exploited by deploying troops that do not target buildings from a distance, allowing them to bypass the Goblin Cage before it breaks. This is especially effective if the opponent placed the Goblin Cage preemptively.
By strategically employing these counters, players can neutralize the Goblin Cage’s defensive power and minimize the threat posed by the Goblin Brawler. Understanding these counter strategies is key to overcoming this versatile card in battle.
Best Goblin Cage Deck
Here’s a breakdown of how to utilize the deck centered around the Goblin Cage.
Goblin Cage (Rare) – Defensive building that spawns a Goblin Brawler when destroyed or after its 20-second lifetime. It’s your main defensive structure and also works to deal with tanky units and provide a counter-push.
Lava Hound (Legendary) – A powerful win condition that deals massive damage when it reaches the opponent’s tower. It serves as a flying tank to support other troops. It’s best used after a solid defense, setting up a counter-push with the Goblin Cage and Flying Machine.
Flying Machine (Rare) – Provides air support, particularly useful in tandem with Lava Hound. It can target enemy troops and towers from a distance, and its long range makes it great for pressuring opponents while staying behind the Lava Hound.
Mega Minion (Rare) – A strong air troop that can be used for both defense and offense. It offers high damage for its cost and can help deal with enemy tanks and swarms.
Barbarians (Common) – A great defensive unit to deal with tanks like Hog Rider or Mini P.E.K.K.A.. Their ability to deal with larger threats makes them versatile, and they can also be used for a strong counter-push.
Skeleton Dragons (Epic) – These provide additional air support, complementing your Lava Hound and Flying Machine. They can deal with swarms and also provide strong damage output, especially when paired with the Goblin Brawler.
Miner (Legendary) – A versatile card that can be used to chip away at enemy towers or to target specific enemy troops. It pairs well with the Lava Hound push and can be used to apply pressure on the opponent’s weak spots.
Arrows (Common) – A utility spell to clear out swarm units like Minion Horde, Skeleton Army, or Goblin Gang that may pose a threat to your Lava Hound or Flying Machine.
Strategy:
Elixir Management: This deck has a high Elixir cost, so it’s important to manage your resources carefully. Don’t overcommit to one push, and be prepared to defend with the Goblin Cage or Barbarians if the opponent makes a strong attack.
Combination with Lava Hound: The Lava Hound works best when you have support troops ready. Flying Machine and Mega Minion will help eliminate defending troops while your Lava Hound focuses on the tower.
Adapt to Opponent’s Strategy: Depending on the enemy deck, you may need to adjust your approach. If your opponent uses a lot of air troops, focus more on Mega Minion and Skeleton Dragons. If they have strong ground units, Barbarians and Goblin Cage should be your go-to defenders.
By utilizing this deck, you’ll have a good balance of offense and defense, with Goblin Cage as a strong backbone, giving you the flexibility to handle various types of enemy pushes and counterattacks.
Conclusion
The Goblin Cage is a rare building card in Clash Royale, unlocked in Arena 1. It features a unique mechanic where it functions as a defensive structure with moderate hitpoints that, upon destruction or after its short 20-second lifetime, releases a single-target, ground-targeting, melee troop called the Goblin Brawler. This Brawler has high hitpoints and high damage, making it a formidable threat once deployed.
Primarily, the Goblin Cage is used as a defensive card that also provides a counter-attacking unit. The most effective defensive strategies revolve around reactive placement, deploying it when specific threats like the Hog Rider, Ram Rider, and Royal Giant are approaching. Precise placements can minimize tower damage, and it can be particularly effective against Mega Knight when placed correctly in the center of the arena. Once the Goblin Brawler is released, it can support the defense or transition into a counterpush thanks to its fast speed and high DPS. In certain scenarios, the Brawler can even serve as a mini-tank for units like Graveyard or Balloon, contributing to offensive plays.
Despite its strengths, the Goblin Cage and its Brawler are not without weaknesses. The short 20-second lifetime of the Goblin Cage makes pre-placement generally inadvisable, as the Brawler can be easily countered if deployed too early. Additionally, the Goblin Brawler is vulnerable to swarm units such as Skeletons, Bats, and Minion Horde, due to its tendency to target only one unit at a time. The Brawler also struggles against dual-lane pushes, where opponents can pressure both lanes while the Brawler can only target one unit. Several spells such as The Log and Barbarian Barrel can efficiently eliminate the Brawler, while area damage troops like the Bomber and Valkyrie can also counter the Brawler effectively.
The viability of the Goblin Cage has fluctuated within the game over time, with ongoing discussions about its balance and potential adjustments. The introduction of card evolutions has added new layers to its role, with a Goblin Cage Evolution mentioned in updates.
In conclusion, the Goblin Cage is a strategically valuable card that combines defensive capabilities with the potential for counter-attacks. To use it effectively, players must be mindful of its placement, timing, and counterplay options. Understanding both its strengths and weaknesses, as well as adapting to new updates and mechanics, will allow players to maximize its potential in Clash Royale.
