Unlocking the Shadows: A Deep Dive into Dark Barracks in Clash of Clans
The Dark Barracks in Clash of Clans are a crucial structure for players looking to dominate the battlefield with powerful and unique troops. Unlike the standard Barracks that train Elixir troops, the Dark Barracks are specifically designed to produce Dark Elixir Troops, offering a different style of combat and strategic depth. These troops are a cornerstone of many advanced attack strategies, making the Dark Barracks an essential building for any serious player. In essence, the Dark Barracks unlock the ability to train troops fueled by Dark Elixir, which introduces a new level of power and tactical options.
Understanding the Core Function
The primary function of the Dark Barracks is to produce Dark Elixir Troops. These troops are unlocked as you upgrade the Dark Barracks to higher levels. Each troop possesses unique abilities and characteristics, providing a more diverse range of attacking strategies than what Elixir troops offer. The Dark Barracks are unlocked at Town Hall level 7, marking a significant step in a player’s progression in Clash of Clans. This timing is important, as it is also the point where you gain access to Dark Elixir. While the Barracks train regular troops, the Dark Barracks train troops that are more powerful and often have specialized roles in battle.
Upgrading Your Dark Barracks
Upgrading your Dark Barracks not only allows you to unlock new troops but also increases the training speed and troop capacity. However, it’s important to note that, like regular barracks, the Dark Barracks trains at half the normal speed while being upgraded. This is something you need to consider before starting an upgrade as it will considerably increase the training time of your Dark Elixir armies. Strategically timing your upgrades can help minimize disruptions to your raiding and clan war preparation.
Dark Elixir Troops: A Different Breed
Dark Elixir troops are a significant departure from Elixir troops. They typically have higher health, damage, and unique abilities that can be used to exploit the weaknesses of various base designs. For example, the Hog Rider can jump over walls, making him ideal for bypassing defenses. The Valkyrie, with her splash damage, can decimate groups of troops and buildings. Furthermore, they require Dark Elixir for training and upgrades, which is a far rarer resource than regular elixir. You’ll need to use Dark Elixir wisely, and the Dark Barracks are the place where most of your Dark Elixir is used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Dark Barracks
To provide a more comprehensive understanding, here are 15 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Dark Barracks:
1. What is the main difference between Barracks and Dark Barracks?
The key difference is the type of troops they train. Barracks produce Elixir Troops, while Dark Barracks produce Dark Elixir Troops. These troop types are different in terms of abilities, cost and required resources for training and upgrades.
2. When do I unlock the Dark Barracks?
The Dark Barracks is unlocked when you reach Town Hall Level 7. This is also the point when you unlock access to the Dark Elixir Drill and Dark Elixir Storage.
3. How do I get Dark Elixir to train troops in the Dark Barracks?
You obtain Dark Elixir through the Dark Elixir Drill or by attacking other players who have dark elixir stored. Dark Elixir is a rarer resource so it may take some time to gather significant amounts.
4. What are some example of Dark Elixir Troops?
Examples include the Minion, Hog Rider, Valkyrie, Golem, Witch, Lava Hound, Bowler, Ice Golem, and Headhunter. Each one requires a specific Dark Barracks level to unlock.
5. Are Dark Elixir troops stronger than Elixir Troops?
While it’s not a strict rule, Dark Elixir Troops often possess unique abilities or higher damage output and health, giving them an edge in certain situations.
6. How do I upgrade Dark Elixir troops?
Dark Elixir Troops are upgraded in the Laboratory using Dark Elixir. Upgrading them increases their stats and effectiveness in battle.
7. Does upgrading the Dark Barracks affect training speed?
Yes, while the Dark Barracks is being upgraded, it will train troops at half the normal rate. Planning upgrades accordingly will help minimize any impact on your army training.
8. Can I have more than one Dark Barracks?
No, there is only one Dark Barracks allowed in your Home Village. This has been changed from the past, where you were allowed multiple Dark Barracks.
9. What happens if I have multiple Dark Barracks when the game updates to have only one?
The game will keep the highest level Dark Barracks and in case all of the highest level barracks are being upgraded the game will keep the one with the least time left to finish.
10. Can I speed up Dark Elixir Troop training?
You can use training potions to temporarily boost the training speed of both barracks and dark barracks, including those that are under construction.
11. How much Dark Elixir can be stolen from my Dark Elixir Storage?
Attackers can steal a percentage of your stored Dark Elixir. This percentage varies depending on your Town Hall level, and loot penalties, though it is typically around 6%, 5%, or 4% of the total amount up to a limit.
12. Are Dark Elixir Troops used for clan wars?
Yes, Dark Elixir Troops are commonly used in Clan Wars due to their high damage and health, allowing you to create stronger attack armies.
13. Do Dark Elixir Troops cost Elixir?
No, Dark Elixir Troops cost Dark Elixir for training.
14. Where do I spend my Dark Elixir besides training troops?
Besides troop training, you also use Dark Elixir to upgrade Heroes and Dark Spells
15. Are Super Troops trained in Dark Barracks?
No, Super Troops are activated in the Super Troop building near the Trader and are trained in your Army Camps once activated. They require Dark Elixir or a Super Potion to activate.
Conclusion: Mastering the Dark Side
The Dark Barracks is an essential building in Clash of Clans. It provides the gateway to powerful troops that can change the tides of battle. Understanding its functions, the unique nature of Dark Elixir Troops, and how they can complement Elixir troops is crucial for achieving mastery in the game. By strategically upgrading your Dark Barracks and training a variety of dark troops, you can gain a significant advantage over opponents and dominate the battlefield. Use the information above to properly utilize your dark troops and you will have a much stronger village and armies ready to compete against any challenger.