Clash Royale Meta Movers: Rising and Falling Decks This Week (Updated Oct 7, 2026) — 507,063 Battles

Quick answer: October 7, 2026 — 507,063 ranked battles (September 30–October 7) deliver the FIRST FULL post-double-nerf snapshot for Minion Giant (both October 6 hit speed nerf and September 16 damage nerf now fully in the 7-day window). Minion Giant records its EIGHTH consecutive 9K+ rising week: +0.54pp to 4.06% (52.2% WR, n=4,378) — use dipped 0.30pp from last snapshot's 4.36% peak but holds 0.35pp above the pre-nerf baseline of 3.71%. NEW #1 9K+ RISER: E-Giant Tornado overtakes Minion Giant — +1.43pp to 3.33% (53.3% WR, n=3,584); WR improving from last snapshot's early-adopter 50.4% to 53.3% signals Season 88 Shocktober adoption stabilizing. Electro Giant is the top riser at 7K–8K (+1.89pp, 55.6% WR, n=2,721). Minion Giant posts its NINTH consecutive 7K–8K rising week (+1.63pp, 55.1% WR, n=2,714) and 58.6% WR at 6K–7K — within 0.1pp of Hog Cycle's 58.7%. Hog Cycle: TWENTY-FOURTH consecutive 9K+ decline — 9.03% (52.5% WR, n=9,731); cumulative ~6.07pp from the September 7 peak of 15.1%. Mortar Cycle leads 9K+ WR at meaningful volume: 54.4% (4.04% use, n=4,356). Elite Barbarians: sixteenth consecutive multi-band retreat — 5K–6K: 2.53% use (61.3% WR, n=2,183), seventh consecutive snapshot below 3%.

This snapshot covers 507,063 ranked ladder battles across all six trophy bands over the 7-day window of September 30–October 7, 2026 — the first full Season 88 Shocktober week (launched October 5) and the first 7-day window with both Minion Giant nerfs fully in effect. Week-over-week deltas compare the October 7 snapshot (Sep 30–Oct 7 window) against the September 30 baseline (Sep 23–30 window). Earlier snapshots back to June 2026 are summarized in the dated archive at the bottom of this page.

Five stories define this first full post-double-nerf Season 88 snapshot:

E-Giant Tornado: new #1 9K+ riser (+1.43pp to 3.33%, 53.3% WR, n=3,584). Season 88 Shocktober's Evo Electro Giant archetype is confirming itself at elite trophies. The WR jumped from last snapshot's early-adopter 50.4% to 53.3% — the stabilization signal that separates genuine adoption from hype. Electro Giant also tops 7K–8K risers at +1.89pp (55.6% WR, n=2,721).

Minion Giant: first full post-double-nerf snapshot — eighth consecutive 9K+ rising week. The October 6 hit speed nerf (1.5s→1.7s, +13% slower) went live mid-last-snapshot; today's reading is the first full 7-day window with both nerfs active: +0.54pp to 4.06% (52.2% WR, n=4,378). Use dipped 0.30pp from last snapshot's 4.36% peak, WR stable. At 7K–8K: ninth consecutive rising week (+1.63pp, 55.1% WR, n=2,714). At 6K–7K: 58.6% WR — within 0.1pp of Hog Cycle's band-leading 58.7%.

Hog Cycle: twenty-fourth consecutive 9K+ decline. −1.08pp to 9.03% (52.5% WR, n=9,731). Cumulative drop from the September 7 peak (15.1%): ~6.07pp. At 8K–9K: −1.14pp to 14.34% (58.4% WR, n=17,121) — still dominant but in continued retreat.

Mortar Cycle leads 9K+ WR at meaningful volume. 54.4% WR, 4.04% use, n=4,356 — the first time Mortar Cycle leads the 9K+ win-rate table in this dataset. Mega Knight Bait drops off the top-6 WR list this snapshot.

Elite Barbarians: sixteenth consecutive multi-band retreat — seventh snapshot below 3% at 5K–6K. 5K–6K: 2.53% use (−0.40pp), 61.3% WR (n=2,183). Self-selection pool continues narrowing.

About this page: Meta Movers is TrophyCoach's recurring meta report. It is updated in place with each new data snapshot rather than published as a new page per date — the current snapshot always lives at this URL, and each superseded edition is condensed into the dated archive at the bottom.

Is Hog Cycle Still the Best Deck in October 2026? The Band-by-Band Picture

Hog Cycle's October 7 reading shows continued retreat: twenty-fourth consecutive decline at 9K+, while still holding as the dominant force at 8K–9K:

September 30–October 7, 2026. TrophyCoach meta_trends database. Δ compares Sep 30–Oct 7 window vs Sep 23–30 baseline.

Under-5K: 17.64%, 68.3% WR, n=16,755. Essentially flat — Hog Cycle is the uncontested most-played deck at this band. Goblin Barrel Bait: 11.48% (68.3%, n=10,905). Royal Hogs: 8.80% (62.4%, n=8,356). Minion Giant: +1.23pp to 2.31% (72.3%†, n=2,197 — self-selection).

5K–6K: −0.83pp to 10.74%, 60.4% WR, n=9,255. Bigger pullback this snapshot. Goblin Barrel Bait: 10.42% (57.0%, n=8,980 — faller −0.37pp). Mega Knight: ~6.5% (similar to last snapshot). Electro Giant surging: +0.94pp to 3.18% (55.6%, n=2,742). Elite Barbarians: −0.40pp to 2.53% (61.3%†, n=2,183) — seventh consecutive snapshot below 3% use.

6K–7K: −0.53pp to 12.16%, 58.7% WR, n=10,383. Hog Cycle is band WR leader at 58.7%. Minion Giant now 58.6% WR (n=2,668) — within 0.1pp. Goblin Barrel Bait: 11.01% (55.4%, n=9,395). Mega Knight: 7.22% (57.8%, n=6,164). Mega Knight Bait: 4.66% (58.2% WR, n=3,981). Elite Barbarians: −0.56pp to 3.40% (57.5%, n=2,900).

7K–8K: −0.81pp to 12.95%, 56.7% WR, n=10,869. Hog Cycle holds the band. Goblin Barrel Bait: 11.11% (54.9%, n=9,327 — faller −0.51pp). Mega Knight: 7.76% (55.8%, n=6,509 — faller −0.73pp). Electro Giant: +1.89pp (55.6% WR, n=2,721) — top riser this snapshot at 7K–8K. Minion Giant: +1.63pp (55.1% WR, n=2,714) — ninth consecutive rising week.

8K–9K: −1.14pp to 14.34%, 58.4% WR, n=17,121. Hog Cycle and Mega Knight Bait co-lead WR at 58.4% each (Mega Knight Bait: 4.55%, n=5,431). Goblin Barrel Bait: 10.54% (56.4%, n=12,588). Mega Knight: 7.82% (56.6%, n=9,340). Electro Giant: +1.39pp to 3.16% (54.5%, n=3,311).

9K+: twenty-fourth consecutive decline. −1.08pp to 9.03% (52.5% WR, n=9,731). Cumulative drop from the September 7 peak (15.1%): ~6.07pp. Mortar Cycle leads 9K+ WR at meaningful volume: 54.4% (4.04% use, n=4,356). Goblin Barrel Bait: 53.0% WR (n=6,305).

Is Hog Cycle still the best choice? At 8K–9K: yes — most-played (14.34%) and co-leads WR at 58.4% (n=17,121); Mega Knight Bait co-leads at 58.4% (n=5,431). At 7K–8K: yes — most-played (12.95%, 56.7%); Hog Cycle WR leader at volume. At 6K–7K: yes — WR leader at 58.7% (n=10,383); Minion Giant at 58.6% is closing the gap. At 5K–6K: −0.83pp to 10.74%, 60.4%, still most-played but losing share. At 9K+: viable but twenty-fourth consecutive decline (9.03%, n=9,731); Mortar Cycle (54.4%) leads WR.

Is the 9,000+ Trophy Meta Diversifying as Season 88 Launches?

Three archetypes rise at 9K+ this snapshot — E-Giant Tornado is now the #1 riser, Minion Giant Cycle follows, and Minion Giant records its eighth consecutive week:

9,000+ trophies, September 30–October 7, 2026. TrophyCoach meta_trends database.

E-Giant Tornado (+1.43pp to 3.33%, 53.3% WR, n=3,584): Now the #1 9K+ riser and the clearest Season 88 Shocktober signal. Critically, WR jumped from last snapshot's early-adopter 50.4% to 53.3% — this WR improvement alongside use growth is the stabilization pattern that marks genuine meta adoption. Evo Electro Giant (Zap Pack shockwave, shrinks and de-levels enemies) launched October 5; this is only the second post-launch reading.

Minion Giant Cycle (+0.99pp to 2.45%, 51.1% WR, n=2,638): Second consecutive snapshot as a tracked 9K+ archetype. The WR dipped slightly (52.3% → 51.1%) while use held near 2.45% — watch whether the double-nerfed base card's reduced DPS pressures this variant further.

Minion Giant (+0.54pp to 4.06%, 52.2% WR, n=4,378): Eighth consecutive 9K+ rising week — now the first full 7-day window with both nerfs active. Use dipped 0.30pp from last snapshot's 4.36% peak but WR improved 51.6%→52.2%. Fifteen post-nerf data points — see trajectory table below.

The full 9K+ picture (October 7):

Archetype	Use Rate	Δ (pp)	Win Rate	Sample
Hog Cycle	9.03%	−1.08	52.5%	9,731
Goblin Barrel Bait	5.85%	~flat	53.0%	6,305
Golem Beatdown	5.23%	~flat	51.9%	5,637
Royal Hogs	4.87%	~flat	51.2%	5,241
Minion Giant	4.06%	+0.54	52.2%	4,378
Mortar Cycle	4.04%	~flat	54.4%	4,356
E-Giant Tornado	3.33%	+1.43	53.3%	3,584
Mega Knight	3.41%	−0.45	53.5%	3,670
Minion Giant Cycle	2.45%	+0.99	51.1%	2,638

9,000+ trophies, September 30–October 7, 2026. ~91,936 total battles. TrophyCoach meta_trends database.

The takeaway for 9K+ players: Mortar Cycle leads 9K+ WR at meaningful volume: 54.4% (4.04% use, n=4,356) — the first time Mortar Cycle tops the 9K+ win-rate table in this dataset. Mega Knight (53.5%, n=3,670) and Goblin Barrel Bait (53.0%, n=6,305) follow. Hog Cycle holds the volume crown (9.03%, n=9,731) with a 52.5% WR — twenty-fourth consecutive decline. E-Giant Tornado (+1.43pp to 3.33%, 53.3% WR) is the top riser and the Season 88 card to watch.

What Do the October 6 and Season 87 Balance Changes Mean for the Meta?

October 6, 2026 Balance Changes (Today)

Card	Change	Old	New	% Change
Goblin Barrel	First Hit Speed	0.4s	0.3s	−25%
Goblin Drill	Crown Tower Spawn Damage	0	20	New
Lava Hound	Damage	53	71	+34%
Lava Hound	Hit Speed	1.3s	1.5s	+15% (slower)
Ram Rider	Damage	250	271	+8%
Wall Breakers	Damage	281	302	+7%
X-Bow	Damage	58	61	+4%
Monk	Ability Cast Time	0.93s	0.7s	−25%
Three Musketeers	Hitpoints	883	906	+3%
Minion Giant	Hit Speed	1.5s	1.7s	+13% (slower)
Hero Ice Wizard	Freeze Damage	89	46	−49%
Cannon Evolution	Barrage Damage	281	261	−7%
Barbarian Barrel	Damage	232	215	−8%
Elixir Collector	Lifetime	1m 33s	1m 50s	+18% (longer)
Elixir Collector	Production Speed	13s	15s	+15% (slower)
Royal Ghost	Hitpoints	1,210	1,152	−5%
Skeletons	Spawn Spread	Tighter	—	Qualitative
Golden Knight	Damage	161	168	+5%
Golden Knight	Dash Range	5.5	5.0 tiles	−9%

Source: Supercell October Balance Changes (October 6, 2026).

Impact: significant — Goblin Barrel. First-hit speed cut 0.4s→0.3s (−25%) means the barrel opens 25% faster, giving defenders ~100ms less reaction time. Goblin Barrel Bait's already-strong position (5.81% use, 53.7% WR at 9K+; 10.56–10.95% use at mid-ladder) is likely to strengthen in next week's snapshot. Watch for a use and WR uptick at 6K–9K.

Impact: significant — Minion Giant hit speed nerf. Hit speed 1.5s→1.7s (+13% slower) reduces DPS by ~12% on top of the September 16 damage nerf (−11%). The pre-nerf DPS baseline has now been cut roughly 22% cumulatively. Despite this, the current snapshot still shows +1.00pp to 4.36% at 9K+ (today's battles won't yet reflect the nerf fully — it went live mid-snapshot). The next snapshot will be the clearest read on post-double-nerf viability.

Impact: small — X-Bow (+4%), Lava Hound (+34% damage). X-Bow Siege (3.63% use, 48.6% WR at under-5K) may see a minor uptick. Lava Hound's 34% damage increase is notable but net DPS depends on the slower hit speed (+15%); net damage-per-hit increases substantially — Lava Loon archetypes could benefit.

Impact: small — Elixir Collector nerfs. Lifetime up 18% (takes longer to destroy) and production speed slowed 15%. Effectively reduces elixir-generation efficiency — control decks running Collector may need to reassess cycle timings.

September 16 Balance Changes (Mid-Season)

Card	Change	Old	New	% Change
Minion Giant	Damage	189	168	−11%
Hero Ice Wizard	Freeze Duration	7.0s	5.0s	−29%
Goblinstein	Ability Duration	4.0s	3.5s	−13%
Fire Spirit	Damage	207	215	+4%

Source: Supercell September Balance Changes (September 16, 2026 update).

Impact: significant. Minion Giant's fourteen-point post-nerf trajectory now shows seven consecutive 9K+ rising weeks despite the −11% damage cut — 4.36% at 9K+ exceeds the pre-nerf peak of 3.71% by 0.65pp. The October 6 hit speed nerf adds further pressure; next snapshot will determine whether the recovery holds.

September 8 Balance Changes (Full List)

Card	Change	Old	New	% Change
Elite Barbarians Evolution	Spear Range	3.5–5 tiles	3–4.5 tiles	−10%
Elite Barbarians Evolution	Rage Duration	2.5s	2.0s	−20%
Freeze	Duration	4.0s	3.5s	−13%
Fireball	Crown Tower Damage	172	159	−8%
Ice Golem	Hitpoints	1,315	1,228	−7%
Ice Golem	Slow Duration	2.0s	2.5s	+25%
Zappies	Hit Speed	2.2s	2.3s	+5% (slower)
Hero Balloon	Skeletrooper Landing Damage	263	230	−13%
Battle Ram Evolution	Knockback	2.5 tiles	2.0 tiles	−20%
Ronin	Hit Speed	1.4s	1.3s	−7% (faster)
Spirit Empress	Damage	309	320	+4%
Goblin Cage	Brawler HP	1,080	1,121	+4%
Wizard	Damage	281	304	+8%
Bomber	Damage	225	212	−6%
Bomber Evolution	Bomb Bounce Distance	2.5	3.0 tiles	+20%
Battle Ram	Sight Range	5.5	6.5 tiles	+18%
Golem	Sight Range	7.0	7.5 tiles	+7%

Source: Supercell September Balance Changes (September 8, 2026).

Impact: massive. Elite Barbarians Evolution nerf remains the dominant Season 87 signal — fifteen consecutive snapshots of post-patch data confirm a compound multi-band collapse. See full breakdown below.

How Far Has Elite Barbarians Fallen After the September 8 Nerf?

Sixteen consecutive snapshots of declines since the Evolution nerf. Below 3% use at two bands simultaneously for the seventh consecutive week:

September 30–October 7, 2026. TrophyCoach meta_trends database. †Self-selection: remaining specialists only; elevated WR does not indicate recovery. ‡5K–6K — seventh consecutive snapshot below 3% use.

Under 5K: −0.37pp to 2.49% (~71.0%†, n=2,366). Below 3% for a seventh consecutive snapshot. The elevated WR reflects extreme self-selection; mainstream alternatives: Hog Cycle (68.3% WR, n=16,755), Goblin Barrel Bait (68.3%, n=10,905).

5K–6K: −0.40pp to 2.53% (61.3%‡, n=2,183). Seventh consecutive snapshot below 3% use — only specialist players remain. Elite Barbarians posts nominally a high WR but Hog Cycle (60.4%, n=9,255) provides 4× the volume within 1.1pp WR.

6K–7K: −0.56pp to 3.40% (57.5%, n=2,900). Accelerating self-selection. Hog Cycle (58.7%, n=10,383) and Minion Giant (58.6%, n=2,668) both outperform.

7K–8K: sixteenth consecutive decline. 4.79% (55.5%, n=4,016). Hog Cycle (56.7%), Mega Knight Bait (56.1%), Mega Knight (55.8%) all outperform. Electro Giant (+1.89pp to 55.6%) has surpassed Elite Barbarians WR while rising.

8K–9K: −0.39pp to 3.66% (52.9%, n=4,374). Hog Cycle (58.4%, n=17,121) is over 5.5pp ahead in WR. Mega Knight Bait (58.4%) and Mega Knight (56.6%) also outperform.

9K+: exit territory. ~1.72% use (54.4%† — self-selection, n=1,849 in bestWinRate listing).

By band verdict (October 7):

• Under 5,000: Exited. Below 3% for seventh consecutive snapshot. Better options: Hog Cycle (68.3%, n=16,755), Goblin Barrel Bait (68.3%, n=10,905).
• 5,000–6,000: Last viable band — barely. 2.53% use, 61.3%‡ WR (n=2,183). Seventh consecutive below-3% snapshot; Hog Cycle (60.4%, n=9,255) within 1.1pp WR at 4× volume.
• 6,000–7,000: Sixteenth consecutive decline (−0.56pp to 3.40%). Hog Cycle (58.7%) and Minion Giant (58.6%) are cleaner choices.
• 7,000–8,000: Sixteenth consecutive decline (4.79%, 55.5%). Hog Cycle (56.7%), Mega Knight Bait (56.1%), Mega Knight (55.8%) all outperform.
• 8,000–9,000: Continued decline (3.66%, 52.9%). Hog Cycle is 5.5pp ahead.
• 9,000+: Exit territory (~1.72%, ~54.4%† WR — self-selection).

Is Minion Giant Still Viable After Two Nerfs? — Fifteen Post-Nerf Data Points

This snapshot is the first full 7-day window with both nerfs active: the October 6 hit speed nerf (1.5s→1.7s, +13%) and the September 16 damage nerf (189→168, −11%). Combined, Minion Giant has absorbed roughly 22% cumulative DPS reduction. The data through October 7 shows its eighth consecutive 9K+ rising week (+0.54pp to 4.06%, 52.2% WR, n=4,378). The fifteen-point trajectory at 9K+:

9,000+ trophy band. TrophyCoach meta_trends database. The October 6 hit speed nerf is fully reflected in this window.

The 3.71%→2.32% collapse through week 5 stabilized at a 2.3–2.5% floor in weeks 6–7, then reversed across eight consecutive weeks. The first full double-nerf reading: use at 4.06% — down 0.30pp from the Oct 6 peak (4.36%) but 0.35pp above the pre-nerf baseline of 3.71%. WR improved slightly from 51.6% to 52.2%. The pattern so far: use dipped modestly on the day of the hit speed nerf, WR held. Not the collapse the nerf was apparently intended to trigger.

Ninth consecutive rising week at 7K–8K. The 7K–8K reading: +1.63pp to 3.68% (55.1% WR, n=2,714) — ninth consecutive rising week, higher use and better WR than last snapshot (3.02%, 53.2%). Electro Giant surpassed Minion Giant as the biggest 7K–8K riser (+1.89pp), but both are rising in tandem.

Near-parity with Hog Cycle at 6K–7K. At 6K–7K, Minion Giant posts 58.6% WR (n=2,668) — within 0.1pp of Hog Cycle's 58.7% (n=10,383). This is the first time in this dataset that a non-Hog-Cycle archetype has come this close to matching Hog Cycle's WR at 6K–7K at significant volume.

All six bands still rising simultaneously. Minion Giant posted positive deltas at every trophy band this snapshot: Under-5K (+1.23pp to 2.31%, 72.3%†), 5K–6K (+1.16pp to 2.21%, 64.1%†), 6K–7K (+1.77pp to 2.68%, 58.6%, n=2,668), 7K–8K (+1.63pp to 3.68%, 55.1%, n=2,714), 8K–9K (+1.43pp to 2.59%, 54.0%, n=3,089), and 9K+ (+0.54pp to 4.06%, 52.2%, n=4,378). Third consecutive snapshot with positive deltas at all six bands.

Is Minion Giant worth using after the October nerf? At 6K–7K: yes — 58.6% WR (n=2,668), near-parity with Hog Cycle at this band's high-volume WR leader. At 7K–8K: yes — ninth consecutive rising week, 55.1% WR (n=2,714), recovering from last snapshot's dip to 53.2%. At 9K+: 52.2% WR (n=4,378), eighth consecutive rising week; use held above the pre-nerf baseline despite the double nerf. At 8K–9K: 54.0% WR (n=3,089). Below 6K: self-selection only (72.3%† under-5K is a specialist pool, not a pick recommendation).

What Is the State of the Clash Royale Meta on October 7, 2026?

The 7,000–8,000 band (~73,782 total battles) now shows Electro Giant as the top riser and Minion Giant posting its ninth consecutive rising week:

Archetype	Use Rate	Δ (pp)	Win Rate	Sample
Hog Cycle	12.95%	−0.81	56.7%	10,869
Goblin Barrel Bait	11.11%	−0.51	54.9%	9,327
Mega Knight	7.76%	−0.73	55.8%	6,509
Royal Hogs	5.99%	~flat	50.8%	5,025
Elite Barbarians	4.79%	~−0.38	55.5%	4,016
Mega Knight Bait	4.81%	~flat	56.1%	4,035
Minion Giant	3.68%	+1.63	55.1%	2,714
Electro Giant	3.69%	+1.89	55.6%	2,721

7,000–8,000 trophy band, September 30–October 7, 2026. ~73,782 total battles. TrophyCoach meta_trends database. Δ compares Sep 30–Oct 7 window vs Sep 23–30 baseline.

Hog Cycle (12.95%, −0.81pp, 56.7% WR, n=10,869): Still the band's most-played and WR leader at high volume. Slight dip in both use and WR from last snapshot.

Electro Giant (3.69%, +1.89pp, 55.6% WR, n=2,721): The top riser at 7K–8K this snapshot — the largest single-band weekly gain of any archetype. Season 88 Shocktober (Evo Electro Giant, October 5) is driving adoption of both the Evolution and base Electro Giant; the WR is settling near 55–56% at this band.

Minion Giant (3.68%, +1.63pp, 55.1% WR, n=2,714): Ninth consecutive rising week at 7K–8K. WR recovered from last snapshot's 53.2% back to 55.1% — suggesting the double-nerf dip was temporary. Now running near-parallel with Electro Giant in use rate.

Mega Knight Bait (4.81%, 56.1% WR, n=4,035): Band WR runner-up at meaningful volume. Consistent performer across mid-ladder bands.

Elite Barbarians (4.79%, ~−0.38pp, 55.5% WR, n=4,016): Sixteenth consecutive decline at this band. Hog Cycle (56.7%), Mega Knight Bait (56.1%), Mega Knight (55.8%) all outperform at this band.

The 8,000–9,000 band (~104,670 battles): Hog Cycle −1.14pp to 14.34%, 58.4% WR, n=17,121 — still dominant. Mega Knight Bait co-leads WR at 58.4% (4.55% use, n=5,431). Electro Giant confirms Season 88 presence: +1.39pp to 3.16% (54.5%, n=3,311).

How Has the Under-5,000 Meta Settled After the E-Barbs Migration?

Under-5,000 trophies this snapshot shows Hog Cycle essentially flat while Goblin Barrel Bait falls and Minion Giant continues its all-band surge:

Archetype	Use Rate	Δ (pp)	Win Rate	Sample
Hog Cycle	17.64%	~+0.07	68.3%	16,755
Goblin Barrel Bait	11.48%	−0.75	68.3%	10,905
Royal Hogs	8.80%	~flat	62.4%	8,356
Giant Beatdown	5.26%	~flat	54.8%	4,995
Mega Knight	3.74%	~flat	~68.8%†	3,555
X-Bow Siege	3.48%	~flat	49.0%	3,306
Minion Giant	2.31%	+1.23	72.3%†	2,197
Elite Barbarians	2.49%	−0.37	~71.0%†	2,366

Under-5,000 trophy band, September 30–October 7, 2026. TrophyCoach meta_trends database. Δ compares Sep 30–Oct 7 window vs Sep 23–30 baseline. †Self-selection: specialist rump only.

Hog Cycle at 17.64% use, 68.3% WR, n=16,755. Essentially flat — the dominant under-5K choice by every measure. Goblin Barrel Bait dipped −0.75pp to 11.48% (68.3% WR, n=10,905) — now tied with Hog Cycle in WR.

Minion Giant (2.31%, +1.23pp, 72.3%† WR, n=2,197): Part of the six-band simultaneous rising signal (third consecutive snapshot). WR is specialist-inflated at 2.31% use — not a mainstream pick recommendation. Electro Giant also rising: +0.43pp to 1.55% (61.1% WR, n=1,477).

Best-WR archetypes under-5K (October 7, mainstream sample): Hog Cycle 68.3% (n=16,755) · Goblin Barrel Bait 68.3% (n=10,905) · Royal Hogs 62.4% (n=8,356)

Which Archetypes Are Rising and Falling Across All Trophy Ranges This Week?

Summary of the biggest movers by trophy range, September 30–October 7, 2026:

Under 5,000 Trophies

Top risers: Minion Giant +1.23pp (2.31%, 72.3%† WR, n=2,197 — self-selection) · Electro Giant +0.43pp (1.55%, 61.1% WR, n=1,477)
Top fallers: Goblin Barrel Bait −0.75pp (11.48%, 68.3% WR, n=10,905) · Elite Barbarians −0.37pp (2.49%, ~71.0%†)
Most played: Hog Cycle 17.64% (68.3%, n=16,755) · Goblin Barrel Bait 11.48% (68.3%, n=10,905) · Royal Hogs 8.80% (62.4%, n=8,356) · Giant Beatdown 5.26% (54.8%, n=4,995) · Mega Knight 3.74% (~68.8%†)
Best WR (mainstream sample): Hog Cycle 68.3% (n=16,755) · Goblin Barrel Bait 68.3% (n=10,905) · Royal Hogs 62.4% (n=8,356)

†Self-selection WRs at under-5K; specialist cohorts only.

5,000–6,000 Trophies

Top risers: Minion Giant +1.16pp (2.21%, 64.1%† WR, n=1,902 — self-selection) · Electro Giant +0.94pp (3.18%, 55.6% WR, n=2,742)
Top fallers: Hog Cycle −0.83pp (10.74%, 60.4% WR, n=9,255) · Royal Hogs −0.73pp (6.01%, 53.7%, n=5,179) · Elite Barbarians −0.40pp (2.53%, 61.3%† WR, n=2,183) · Goblin Barrel Bait −0.37pp (10.42%, 57.0%, n=8,980)
Most played: Hog Cycle 10.74% (60.4%, n=9,255) · Goblin Barrel Bait 10.42% (57.0%, n=8,980) · Royal Hogs 6.01% (53.7%) · Electro Giant 3.18% (55.6%, n=2,742) · Elite Barbarians 2.53% (61.3%†, n=2,183)
Best WR (mainstream, n>2,000): Hog Cycle 60.4% (n=9,255) · Electro Giant 55.6% (n=2,742)

‡Elite Barbarians 61.3%† WR at 5K–6K — self-selection; seventh consecutive snapshot below 3% use.

6,000–7,000 Trophies (~74,545 battles)

Top risers: Minion Giant +1.77pp (2.68%, 58.6% WR, n=2,668) — 0.1pp from Hog Cycle's WR · Electro Giant +1.17pp (3.11%, 57.1% WR, n=2,318)
Top fallers: Elite Barbarians −0.56pp (3.40%, 57.5%, n=2,900) · Hog Cycle −0.53pp (12.16%, 58.7%, n=10,383) · Mega Knight −0.36pp (7.22%, 57.8%, n=6,164)
Most played: Hog Cycle 12.16% (58.7%, n=10,383) · Goblin Barrel Bait 11.01% (55.4%, n=9,395) · Mega Knight 7.22% (57.8%, n=6,164) · Royal Hogs 6.08% (51.8%) · Mega Knight Bait 4.66% (58.2%, n=3,981) · Elite Barbarians 3.40% (57.5%, n=2,900)
Best WR (n>1,500): Hog Cycle 58.7% (n=10,383) · Minion Giant 58.6% (n=2,668) · Mega Knight Bait 58.2% (n=3,981) · Mega Knight 57.8% (n=6,164)

7,000–8,000 Trophies (~73,782 battles)

Top risers: Electro Giant +1.89pp (3.69%, 55.6% WR, n=2,721) — #1 riser, Season 88 · Minion Giant +1.63pp (3.68%, 55.1% WR, n=2,714) — ninth consecutive rising week
Top fallers: Hog Cycle −0.81pp (12.95%, 56.7% WR, n=10,869) · Mega Knight −0.73pp (7.76%, 55.8% WR, n=6,509) · Goblin Barrel Bait −0.51pp (11.11%, 54.9%, n=9,327)
Most played: Hog Cycle 12.95% (56.7%, n=10,869) · Goblin Barrel Bait 11.11% (54.9%, n=9,327) · Mega Knight 7.76% (55.8%, n=6,509) · Mega Knight Bait 4.81% (56.1%, n=4,035) · Elite Barbarians 4.79% (55.5%, n=4,016)
Best WR: Hog Cycle 56.7% (n=10,869) · Mega Knight Bait 56.1% (n=4,035) · Mega Knight 55.8% (n=6,509) · Electro Giant 55.6% (n=2,721) · Minion Giant 55.1% (n=2,714)

8,000–9,000 Trophies (~104,670 battles)

Top risers: Minion Giant +1.43pp (2.59%, 54.0% WR, n=3,089) · Electro Giant +1.39pp (3.16%, 54.5% WR, n=3,311) · Royal Hogs +0.43pp (6.08%, 52.1%, n=7,255)
Top fallers: Hog Cycle −1.14pp (14.34%, 58.4% WR, n=17,121) · Elite Barbarians −0.39pp (3.66%, 52.9%, n=4,374) · Mega Knight −0.35pp (7.82%, 56.6%, n=9,340)
Most played: Hog Cycle 14.34% (58.4%, n=17,121) · Goblin Barrel Bait 10.54% (56.4%, n=12,588) · Mega Knight 7.82% (56.6%, n=9,340) · Royal Hogs 6.08% (52.1%, n=7,255) · Mega Knight Bait 4.55% (58.4%, n=5,431) · Elite Barbarians 3.66% (52.9%, n=4,374)
Best WR: Hog Cycle / Mega Knight Bait co-lead 58.4% (n=17,121 / n=5,431) · Mega Knight 56.6% (n=9,340) · Goblin Barrel Bait 56.4% (n=12,588) · Electro Giant 54.5% (n=3,311)

9,000+ Trophies (~91,936 battles)

Top risers: E-Giant Tornado +1.43pp (3.33%, 53.3% WR, n=3,584) — #1 riser, Season 88 confirmed · Minion Giant Cycle +0.99pp (2.45%, 51.1% WR, n=2,638) · Minion Giant +0.54pp (4.06%, 52.2% WR, n=4,378) — eighth consecutive week
Top fallers: Hog Cycle −1.08pp (9.03%, 52.5% WR, n=9,731) — twenty-fourth consecutive decline · Mega Knight −0.45pp (3.41%, 53.5% WR, n=3,670) · Hog 2.6 −0.41pp (2.32%, 48.5% WR, n=2,500)
Most played: Hog Cycle 9.03% (52.5%, n=9,731) · Goblin Barrel Bait 5.85% (53.0%) · Golem Beatdown 5.23% (51.9%) · Royal Hogs 4.87% · Minion Giant 4.06% (52.2%) · Mortar Cycle 4.04% (54.4%, n=4,356)
Best WR (n>1,500): Mortar Cycle 54.4% (4.04% use, n=4,356) · Mega Knight 53.5% (n=3,670) · E-Giant Tornado 53.3% (n=3,584) · Goblin Barrel Bait 53.0% (n=6,305) · Hog Cycle 52.5% (n=9,731)

Meta Movers Archive: How Has the Meta Shifted Since June 2026?

Meta Movers snapshots have tracked the ranked-ladder meta since June 18, 2026 — spanning the back half of Season 84 Stone Cold (June 1–July 5), all of Season 85 Honor & Exile (July 6–August 2), the full K.H.A.O.S. Season 86 arc, and now Season 87 Minion Academy through Season 88 Shocktober. Each entry below condenses a superseded edition of this page.

October 6, 2026 — Hog Cycle Twenty-Third Consecutive 9K+ Decline (9.29%, −1.10pp); Minion Giant Seventh Consecutive 9K+ Rise (4.36%, +1.00pp, 0.65pp Above Pre-Nerf Peak); Evo Electro Giant First Data; Double Nerf Confirmed (501,223 Battles)

From 501,223 ranked battles (Sep 29–Oct 6): Minion Giant recorded its seventh consecutive 9K+ rising week — +1.00pp to 4.36% (51.6% WR, n=4,645) — 0.65pp above the pre-nerf peak of 3.71%; Minion Giant Cycle emerged as a distinct archetype at 9K+: +1.13pp to 2.46% (52.3% WR, n=2,615), the #1 9K+ riser that snapshot. October 6 balance changes hit Minion Giant again (hit speed 1.5s→1.7s, +13%), the second nerf in three weeks after September 16 (damage −11%). Hog Cycle: twenty-third consecutive 9K+ decline — −1.10pp to 9.29% (53.1% WR, n=9,894); cumulative −5.81pp from the September 7 peak of 15.1%. Evo Electro Giant launched October 5 — first post-launch data: E-Giant Tornado +0.66pp to 2.49% at 9K+ (50.4% WR, n=2,651); Electro Giant surged 7K–8K (+1.13pp to 2.50%, 54.1% WR, n=2,089) and 8K–9K (+1.06pp to 2.41%, 54.6% WR, n=2,854). Mega Knight Bait led 9K+ WR at 55.1% (~2.8% use, n=2,500). Elite Barbarians: fifteenth consecutive multi-band retreat — 5K–6K: 2.51% use (63.5%† WR, n=2,149), sixth consecutive snapshot below 3%.

October 4, 2026 — Hog Cycle Twenty-Second Consecutive 9K+ Decline (−1.80pp to 9.17%); Minion Giant Sixth Consecutive 9K+ Rise (+1.17pp to 4.07%, Exceeds Pre-Nerf Peak); Season 88 Shocktober Launches TOMORROW

From 498,913 ranked battles (Sep 27–Oct 4, Season 87 final day before Season 88 Shocktober): Minion Giant recorded its sixth consecutive 9K+ rising week — +1.17pp to 4.07% (52.0% WR, n=4,303) — the first archetype in this dataset to rise at all six trophy bands simultaneously, with 9K+ use now exceeding the pre-nerf peak of 3.71% for the first time. Trajectory at 9K+: 3.71%→3.04%→2.66%→2.40%→2.32%→2.49%→2.49%→3.36%→3.52%→3.60%→3.69%→3.87%→4.07%. Seventh consecutive 7K–8K rising week (+1.27pp to 2.49%, 57.0% WR, n=2,086). Hog Cycle posted its twenty-second consecutive 9K+ decline: −1.80pp to 9.17% (52.8% WR, n=9,689), fourth consecutive snapshot below 10% at elite trophies (cumulative drop 5.93pp from September 7 peak of 15.1%); 8K–9K band split at 14.95% vs 9.17%. Season 88 Shocktober launching TOMORROW (October 5) — Evo Electro Giant (Zap Pack shockwave, shrinks and de-levels enemies), Hero Electro Wizard. E-Giant Tornado: fifth consecutive pre-launch 9K+ rise (+0.50pp to 2.20%, n=2,325). Golden Knight: ninth consecutive 9K+ rising week (+0.43pp to 2.89%, 51.7% WR, n=3,049). Mega Knight Bait AND Skeleton Barrel Bait co-lead 9K+ WR at 55.3% each. Elite Barbarians: fourteenth consecutive multi-band retreat — 5K–6K: 2.71% use (62.6% WR, n=2,326), fifth consecutive snapshot below 3%.

October 3, 2026 — Hog Cycle Twenty-First Consecutive 9K+ Decline (−0.17pp to 9.56%); Minion Giant Fifth Consecutive 9K+ Rise (+1.21pp to 3.87%); Golden Knight Eighth Consecutive (+0.53pp to 2.81%); E-Giant Tornado Fourth Consecutive Pre-Launch Rise (2.09%)

From 500,986 ranked battles (Sep 26–Oct 3, Season 87 Week 13, final pre-Season 88 snapshot): Minion Giant recorded its fifth consecutive 9K+ rising week — +1.21pp to 3.87% (~52.9% WR, ~n=4,012) — and sixth consecutive 7K–8K rising week: +1.18pp to 2.29% (56.1% WR, n=1,920). Hog Cycle posted its twenty-first consecutive 9K+ use decline: −0.17pp to 9.56% (53.7% WR, n=9,968), third consecutive snapshot below 10% at elite trophies (cumulative drop 5.5pp+ from September 7 peak of 15.1%). E-Giant Tornado posted its fourth consecutive pre-launch 9K+ rise: +0.42pp to 2.09% — Season 88 Shocktober (Evo Electro Giant, Hero Electro Wizard) launching in 2 days (October 5). Golden Knight: eighth consecutive 9K+ rising week (+0.53pp to 2.81%, ~53.5% WR, ~n=2,916). Mega Knight Bait led 9K+ WR at 54.9% (n=2,350). Elite Barbarians: thirteenth consecutive multi-band retreat — 5K–6K: 2.81% use (62.8%‡, n=2,407), below 3% fourth consecutive snapshot.

October 2, 2026 — Hog Cycle Twentieth Consecutive 9K+ Decline (−1.35pp to 9.73%); Minion Giant Fourth Consecutive 9K+ Rise (+1.20pp to 3.69%); Golden Knight Seventh Consecutive (+0.63pp to 2.83%); E-Giant Tornado Third Consecutive Pre-Launch Rise (1.98%)

From 501,906 ranked battles (Sep 25–Oct 2, Season 87 Week 12, final pre-Season 88 snapshot): Hog Cycle posted its twentieth consecutive 9K+ use decline — −1.35pp to 9.73% (53.9% WR, n=10,103), second consecutive snapshot below 10% at elite trophies; cumulative drop exceeded 5.3pp from the September 7 peak of 15.1%. Minion Giant recorded its fourth consecutive 9K+ rising week: +1.20pp to 3.69% (52.9% WR, n=3,830) — and fifth consecutive 7K–8K rising week: +0.99pp to 2.02% (56.6% WR, n=1,698), crossing 2% use post-nerf for the first time. E-Giant Tornado posted its third consecutive pre-launch 9K+ rise: +0.32pp to 1.98% (53% WR, n=2,056) — Season 88 Shocktober (Evo Electro Giant, Hero Electro Wizard) launching in 3 days (October 5). Golden Knight: seventh consecutive 9K+ rising week (+0.63pp to 2.83%, 53.5% WR, n=2,942). Mega Knight Bait and Mega Knight co-led 9K+ WR at 55.0% each. Elite Barbarians: twelfth consecutive multi-band retreat — 5K–6K: 2.85% use (62.9% WR, n=2,455), below 3% third consecutive snapshot.

October 1, 2026 — Hog Cycle Nineteenth Consecutive 9K+ Decline (−1.39pp to 9.94%); Minion Giant Third Consecutive 9K+ Rise (+1.28pp to 3.60%); Golden Knight Sixth Consecutive Rise (+0.66pp to 2.76%); Mortar Cycle First 9K+ Riser Appearance

From 498,097 ranked battles (Sep 24–Oct 1, Season 87 Week 11): Hog Cycle posted its nineteenth consecutive 9K+ use decline — −1.39pp to 9.94% (53.9% WR, n=10,307), below 10% at elite trophies for the first time in Season 87; cumulative drop 5.2pp from the September 7 peak of 15.1%. Minion Giant confirmed its third consecutive 9K+ rising week: +1.28pp to 3.60% (52.3% WR, n=3,729), the tenth post-nerf data point. Golden Knight maintained its sixth consecutive weekly gain at 9K+: +0.66pp to 2.76% (53.3% WR, n=2,866). Mortar Cycle appeared on the 9K+ risers list for the first time: +0.45pp to 3.97% (52.7% WR, n=4,119). E-Giant Tornado posted its second consecutive pre-launch rise: +0.36pp to 1.94% (52.6% WR, n=2,012). Elite Barbarians: eleventh consecutive multi-band retreat — 5K–6K barely viable at 2.87% use (62.6% WR, n=2,473), below 3% second consecutive snapshot. Minion Giant four consecutive rising weeks at 7K–8K: +0.69pp to 1.73% (55.5% WR, n=1,446).

September 30, 2026 — Hog Cycle Eighteenth Consecutive 9K+ Decline (−1.36pp to 10.11%); Minion Giant Second Consecutive 9K+ Rise (+1.28pp to 3.52%); Golden Knight Fifth Consecutive Rise (+0.82pp to 2.74%)

From 501,385 ranked battles (Sep 23–30, Season 87 Week 10, final week): Hog Cycle posted its eighteenth consecutive 9K+ use decline — −1.36pp to 10.11% (53.2% WR, n=10,458), approaching the 10% threshold at elite trophies. Minion Giant confirmed its second consecutive 9K+ rising week: +1.28pp to 3.52% (53% WR, n=3,643), rising back toward the pre-nerf 3.71% peak. Golden Knight maintained fifth consecutive weekly gain at 9K+: +0.82pp to 2.74% (52.5% WR, n=2,835). Giant Skeleton first appeared on the 9K+ riser list: +0.46pp to 1.76% (53% WR, n=1,818). E-Giant Tornado debuted as a 9K+ riser at +0.34pp to 1.90% (53.4% WR, n=1,964) — four days before the Evo Electro Giant launch. Golem Beatdown continued multi-week 9K+ ascent: +0.56pp to 5.34% (52.1% WR, n=5,524). Three consecutive 7K–8K rising weeks for Minion Giant (+0.57pp to 1.60%, 56.9% WR, n=1,351). Elite Barbarians: tenth consecutive multi-band retreat — 5K–6K still viable at 3.04% (61.6% WR).

September 29, 2026 — Hog Cycle Seventeenth Consecutive 9K+ Decline (−1.06pp to 10.39%); Golden Knight Fourth Consecutive +0.99pp Rise (2.71%, 52.8% WR); Minion Giant First 9K+ Gain Since Nerf (+0.96pp to 3.36%)

From 499,109 ranked battles (Sep 22–29, Season 87 Week 9): Hog Cycle posted its seventeenth consecutive 9K+ decline — −1.06pp to 10.39% (53.5% WR, n=10,671) — while rising at 8K–9K (+0.48pp to 15.40%, 58.1% WR, n=18,364), widening the Season 87 band split to 5.01pp. Golden Knight confirmed its fourth consecutive rising week: +0.99pp to 2.71% (52.8% WR, n=2,778). Mega Knight displaced Mega Knight Bait as 9K+ WR leader: 55.1% (n=4,066) vs 53.9% (n=2,649). Minion Giant's first 9K+ gain since the September 16 nerf: +0.96pp to 3.36% (52.3% WR, n=3,455) — required confirmation next snapshot (now confirmed through seven consecutive rising weeks). Two consecutive rising weeks at 7K–8K (+0.47pp to 1.45%, 56.7% WR, n=1,216). Elite Barbarians: ninth consecutive multi-band retreat — 5K–6K still viable at 3.04% use, 61.6% WR (n=2,641).

September 27, 2026 — Hog Cycle Sixteenth Consecutive 9K+ Decline (−0.68pp to 10.97%); Golden Knight Third Consecutive +1.0pp Rise (2.46%, 54.6% WR); Mega Knight Bait Season-High 58.9% WR at 8K–9K

From 496,537 ranked battles (Sep 20–27, Season 87 Week 9): Hog Cycle posted its sixteenth consecutive 9K+ use decline — −0.68pp to 10.97% (54.1% WR, n=11,126), first time below 11% at elite trophies this season. Golden Knight confirmed its third consecutive week above +1.0pp at 9K+: +1.06pp to 2.46% (54.6% WR, n=2,497). Mega Knight Bait posted a season-high 58.9% WR at 8K–9K (4.97% use, n=5,837) and led 9K+ by WR at 56.2% (n=2,712). Under-5K: Hog Cycle at 17.41% (+0.96pp, 67.5% WR, n=16,465); Royal Hogs +0.37pp (8.45%, 63.0% WR, n=7,988). Minion Giant threshold signal at 7K–8K: +0.34pp to 1.22% (54.8% WR, n=1,026) — first positive 7K–8K move in weeks. Elite Barbarians: eighth consecutive multi-band decline (5K–6K: 3.17% use, 62.0% WR, n=2,742 — last viable band).

September 26, 2026 — Hog Cycle Fifteenth Consecutive 9K+ Decline (−0.72pp to 10.98%); Golden Knight Second Consecutive +1.0pp Rise (2.28%, 53.8% WR); Mega Knight Bait 8K–9K Season-High 58% WR

From 497,984 ranked battles (Sep 19–26, Season 87 Week 8): Hog Cycle posted its fifteenth consecutive 9K+ use decline — −0.72pp to 10.98% (53.9% WR, n=11,120), first time below 11% at elite trophies. Golden Knight confirmed as a sustained trend for the second consecutive week: +1.07pp to 2.28% (53.8% WR, n=2,311). Mega Knight Bait reached a season-high 58% WR at 8K–9K (5.03% use, n=5,911). Hog Cycle 8K–9K at its Season 87 peak: 15.32% use (57.3% WR, n=18,009) — widest Season 87 band split at 4.34pp. Under-5K: Hog Cycle at new season high 17.74% (+1.33pp, 67.6% WR, n=16,788). Minion Giant seventh post-nerf snapshot: 2.66% use (52.8% WR, n=2,699), oscillating near 2.3–2.7% floor range.

September 24, 2026 — Hog Cycle Thirteenth Consecutive 9K+ Decline (−0.53pp to 11.33%); Minion Giant Five Weeks Post-Nerf (2.32%, −1.22pp); Mega Knight Bait Season-High 57.4% WR

From 497,249 ranked battles (Sep 17–24, Season 87 Week 6): Hog Cycle posted its thirteenth consecutive 9K+ use decline — −0.53pp to 11.33% (53.7% WR, n=11,393). Mega Knight Bait posted 57.4% WR at 9K+ (n=2,905). Minion Giant at 9K+: fifth consecutive post-nerf collapse, −1.22pp to 2.32% (54.3% WR, n=2,332); trajectory 3.71%→3.04%→2.66%→2.40%→2.32%. Under-5K: Hog Cycle at season high 17.44% (+1.68pp, 67% WR, n=16,487). Elite Barbarians: sixth consecutive multi-band retreat.

September 22, 2026 — Hog Cycle Twelfth Consecutive 9K+ Decline (−0.64pp to 11.45%); Minion Giant Season Low at 9K+ (−1.09pp to 2.40%); Mega Knight Bait Recovers to 56.0% WR

From 497,184 ranked battles (Sep 15–22, Season 87 Week 5): Hog Cycle posted its twelfth consecutive 9K+ use decline — −0.64pp to 11.45% (54.8% WR, n=11,633). Minion Giant posted the season's largest single-band weekly collapse at 9K+: −1.09pp to 2.40% use (51.9% WR, n=2,442), the biggest weekly faller at any band three weeks post-nerf. Under-5K: Hog Cycle +1.38pp to 16.94% (66.3% WR, n=15,911). Mega Knight Bait recovered to 56.0% WR at 9K+ (n=3,012). Elite Barbarians: largest weekly faller at 6K–7K (−0.85pp to 4.69%) and 5K–6K (−0.74pp to 3.50%, 63.0% WR — last viable band).

September 21, 2026 — Hog Cycle Eleventh Consecutive 9K+ Decline (−0.72pp to 11.5%); PEKKA Bridge Spam Takes 9K+ WR Lead; Minion Giant Approaches Viability Floor (50.8% WR)

From 510,742 ranked battles (Sep 14–21, Season 87 Week 4): Hog Cycle posted its eleventh consecutive 9K+ use decline — −0.72pp to 11.5% (54.2% WR, n=12,087). PEKKA Bridge Spam (55.5% WR, n=2,910) displaced Mega Knight Bait as the 9K+ win-rate leader. Minion Giant at 9K+ fell to 50.8% WR (n=2,798, −0.58pp to 2.66% use) — approaching the 50% viability floor. Under-5K migration confirmed complete: Hog Cycle +1.26pp (16.79%, 66.2% WR, n=16,295).

September 20, 2026 — Royal Hogs Biggest Single-Band Riser (+1.19pp to 8.22% at Under-5K); Hog Cycle Tenth Consecutive 9K+ Decline (−0.77pp to 11.65%); 7K–8K Records No Risers for the First Time in Season 87

From 544,011 ranked battles (Sep 13–20, Season 87 Week 4): Royal Hogs was the snapshot's biggest single-band riser — +1.19pp to 8.22% use at under-5K (60.3% WR, n=8,520). Hog Cycle posted its tenth consecutive 9K+ decline — −0.77pp to 11.65% (54.2% WR, n=13,198). 7K–8K produced no archetypes above the riser threshold for the first time in Season 87. Elite Barbarians kept exiting outside 5K–6K: −1.32pp at under-5K to 4.0%, −1.00pp at 6K–7K to 4.95%. Minion Giant Day 9–10 convergence signal: Miner Control WR improved 28.3%→44.2% at 5K–6K.

September 19, 2026 — Hog Cycle Ninth Consecutive 9K+ Decline (−1.02pp to 11.7%, Season Low); Goblin Barrel Bait Leads Under-5K Gain for Second Time; Minion Giant First Full Post-Nerf Week

From 581,095 ranked battles (Sep 12–19, Season 87 Week 3): Hog Cycle posted its ninth consecutive 9K+ decline — −1.02pp to 11.7% (55.1% WR, n=14,404) — while setting a Season 87 peak at 8K–9K: 15.03% use (+0.87pp, 57.5% WR, n=17,762). Goblin Barrel Bait led the under-5K weekly gain for the second time. Minion Giant's first full post-nerf week confirmed mid-ladder failure. Mega Knight Bait led every band from 7K–8K upward by win rate.

September 18, 2026 — Hog Cycle Eighth Consecutive 9K+ Decline (−1.14pp to 11.74%, Season Low) Against a Season-High 14.91% at 8K–9K; Mega Knight +1.08pp at 5K–6K; Under-5K Settles at 27.6% Combined

From 624,729 ranked battles (Sep 11–18, Season 87 Week 3): Hog Cycle posted its eighth consecutive 9K+ use decline — −1.14pp to 11.74% (54.6% WR, n=15,725) — while setting a season high at 8K–9K: 14.91% use (+0.82pp, 57.0% WR, n=17,637), the widest band-by-band split of Season 87 (3.17pp). Under-5K settled at its post–Elite Barbarians baseline: Hog Cycle 16.14% (64.4%), Goblin Barrel Bait 11.49% (63.5%), 27.6% combined. Mega Knight surged +1.08pp at 5K–6K to 7.04% (58.7% WR). Six archetypes rising simultaneously at 9K+ for the fourth consecutive snapshot.

September 17, 2026 — Hog Cycle Seventh Consecutive 9K+ Decline (−1.75pp to 11.86%); Under-5K Combined 27.0%; Minion Giant Post-Nerf Day 11–17 Data

From 679,217 ranked battles (Sep 10–17): Hog Cycle posted its seventh consecutive 9K+ use decline: −1.75pp to 11.86% (55.1% WR, n=17,255). Under-5K completed the E-Barbs refugee migration: Hog Cycle 15.76% (+6.49pp), Goblin Barrel Bait 11.23% (+6.74pp), combined 27.0% share. Elite Barbarians continued its post-nerf exit above 5K–6K: −1.82pp at 6K–7K (5.04%), −1.74pp at 7K–8K (6.16%), −1.38pp at 8K–9K (4.60%), −1.16pp at 9K+ (2.43%). Minion Giant (nerfed Sep 16): at 9K+ the trailing window showed 3.54% use, 53.9% WR — mostly pre-nerf battles.

September 15, 2026 — Mega Knight Four-Band Rise for the Second Consecutive Snapshot; Hog Cycle Holds 8K–9K; Mega Knight Bait 58.4% WR at 9K+

From 834,839 ranked battles (Sep 8–Sep 15, Season 87 Week 2): Mega Knight rose at all four mid-trophy bands for the second consecutive snapshot. Hog Cycle held 8K–9K at 14.98% use (+0.88pp, 57.5% WR, n=23,633) while posting its sixth consecutive 9K+ decline (−1.91pp to 12.09%). Mega Knight Bait led 9K+ by WR at 58.4% (n=5,307). Elite Barbarians continued its exit above 5K–6K: −2.45pp at 6K–7K, −2.39pp at 7K–8K.

September 14, 2026 — Mega Knight Rises at Four Consecutive Bands for First Time; Hog Cycle Peaks at 8K–9K; Six Archetypes Rising Simultaneously at 9K+

From 884,780 ranked battles (Sep 7–Sep 14, Season 87 Week 1 full-window): Hog Cycle and Goblin Barrel Bait completed the under-5K E-Barbs refugee migration (combined 26.9% use share — highest for any two archetypes at a single band in the dataset). Mega Knight rose at 5K–6K, 6K–7K, 7K–8K, and 8K–9K simultaneously. Hog Cycle peaked at 8K–9K: 15.1% use (+1.30pp, 57.6% WR). Six archetypes rising simultaneously at 9K+ for the first time in dataset: Golem Beatdown +1.72pp, Mortar Cycle +1.27pp, PEKKA Bridge Spam +1.06pp (56.5%, n=5,121).

September 12, 2026 — Hog Cycle Fourth Consecutive 9K+ Decline (−1.78pp); Elite Barbarians Touches 50.0% WR at 9K+; 5 Archetypes Rising Simultaneously at Elite Ladder

From 432,563 ranked battles (Sep 5–Sep 12): Hog Cycle at under-5K crossed 10% for the first time this season (+2.26pp to 10.04%). Hog Cycle posted its fourth consecutive 9K+ decline (−1.78pp to 12.72%) while 7K–8K correction confirmed (−1.44pp to 12.79%). Elite Barbarians at 9K+ touched exactly 50.0% WR (3.01% use) — lowest since tracking began.

September 11, 2026 — Hog Cycle Third Consecutive 9K+ Decline (−2.07pp), Biggest of Season 87; Elite Barbarians Near-Exit Under-5K; Mega Knight Bait Consolidates

From 431,172 ranked battles (Sep 4–Sep 11): Hog Cycle posted its steepest 9K+ single-week decline of Season 87: −2.07pp to 12.88% (51.8% WR), cumulative −3.07pp from the September 7 peak of 15.1%. Mega Knight filled the 7K–8K vacuum: +0.58pp to 8.25% (55.0% WR), exceeding 8% for the first time. Elite Barbarians approached exit under-5K: 2.84% use (−2.62pp).

September 10, 2026 — Hog Cycle First Back-to-Back 9K+ Declines; Mega Knight Bait Breakout; Minion Giant 3rd Snapshot

From 432,560 ranked battles (Sep 3–Sep 10): Hog Cycle posted back-to-back 9K+ declines for the first time all season — −1.00pp to 13.61% (52.2% WR). Mega Knight Bait was the breakout: 58.1% WR at 7K–8K, 57.5% WR at 8K–9K. Elite Barbarians' post-nerf collapse deepened at every band.

September 8, 2026 — Elite Barbarians Double-Hit; Hog Cycle First 9K+ Softening; Minion Giant 2nd Snapshot

From 427,230 ranked battles (Sep 1–Sep 8): Elite Barbarians received a double hit — Season 86 boost expired September 7, then a same-day Evolution nerf September 8. Under-5K use crashed −2.47pp to 4.3%. Hog Cycle showed its first 9K+ pullback: 14.67% use (−0.38pp). Minion Giant adoption confirmed second consecutive snapshot.

September 7, 2026 — Season 87 Day 1: E-Barbs Boost Expires, Hog Cycle #1 at Every Band, Minion Giant Day-1 Signals

From 431,557 ranked battles (Aug 31–Sep 7): Season 87 Minion Academy started and the Elite Barbarians Season 86 boost expired. Under-5K E-Barbs use crashed −2.66pp to 4.94%; 9K+ fell −1.12pp to 4.23% at 49.9% WR. Hog Cycle: 15.1% use at 9K+ — most-played archetype at every single band simultaneously.

September 5, 2026 — Hog Cycle Dominant Entering Season 87; Minion Giant Arrives; E-Barbs Boost Expires in 2 Days

From 433,767 ranked battles (Aug 29–Sep 5): Minion Giant launched September 5 — 1,817 HP, 126 DPS, knockback immunity, 4 elixir, building-targeting — with no ranked battle data yet. Hog Cycle posted its pre-season peak: 14.64% use at 9K+ (51.5% WR).

September 4, 2026 — Hog Cycle Sets Dataset Record at Elite Ladder; PEKKA Bridge Spam 3rd Rising Week; Minion Giant One Day Away

From 434,519 ranked battles (Aug 28–Sep 4): Hog Cycle set an elite-ladder record at 9K+: 14.86% use (n=11,205, +0.66pp, 51.4% WR). PEKKA Bridge Spam posted its third consecutive top-3 riser at under-5K.

September 3, 2026 — PEKKA Bridge Spam Hits Second Consecutive Rising Week; Elite Barbarians Collapse Deepens

From 425,271 ranked battles (Aug 27–Sep 3): PEKKA Bridge Spam posted its second consecutive top-3 riser at under-5K — +0.93pp to 3.61% use (51.9% WR, n=2,547), Ian77 calling it "The Deck that CHANGED Clash Royale." Elite Barbarians' under-5K collapse was the biggest single-week faller at any trophy range: −3.05pp to 6.56%.

September 2, 2026 — PEKKA Bridge Spam Breaks Into Top-3 Risers at Under-5K; Golem Beatdown Dethrones Hog Cycle

From 436,434 ranked battles (Aug 26–Sep 2): PEKKA Bridge Spam first appeared as a top-3 riser at under-5K (+1.29pp to 3.82%, 51.8% WR). Golem Beatdown overtook Hog Cycle as the #1 most-played deck at under-5K. Hog Cycle surged +0.89pp at 9K+ to 14.79% use.

August 28, 2026 — Hog Cycle's Biggest Elite-Ladder Gain of Season 86; Goblin Barrel Bait Use Season Low

From 419,765 ranked battles (Aug 21–28): Hog Cycle posted its biggest single-week elite-ladder gain of Season 86 (+0.9pp to 14.46% use at 9K+). Goblin Barrel Bait's under-5K use share crashed to a season low (4.74%, −2.24pp). Golem Beatdown was the #1 riser at under-5K for a second straight week.

August 27, 2026 — Golem Beatdown Surges Low-Ladder; Hog Cycle Enters 4th Collapse Week

From 430,467 ranked battles (Aug 20–27): Golem Beatdown posted the dataset's largest single-week use gain at under-5K (+2.09pp to 7.6% use). Hog Cycle's under-5K collapse entered its 4th consecutive week and steepest drop: −3.32pp to 7.51%.

August 26, 2026 — Elite Barbarians' 4-Week Streak Ends; Mortar Cycle Confirmed at Two Ranges

From 428,726 ranked battles (Aug 19–26): Elite Barbarians' all-six-ranges rising streak ended — fell at under-5K and 8K–9K. Mortar Cycle rose simultaneously at two non-adjacent bands for the second consecutive week.

August 25, 2026 — Elite Barbarians Rising All 6 Ranges for 4th Straight Week; 9K+ WR at 49.8%

From 422,125 ranked battles (Aug 18–25): Elite Barbarians rose at all 6 trophy ranges for the 4th consecutive week while its 9K+ win rate fell to 49.8% — sub-50% for the 2nd time in 3 weeks. Hog Cycle posted a second straight collapse at under-5K: −2.13pp to 8.59%.

August 24, 2026 — Elite Barbarians 3rd Consecutive Week Rising; Hog Cycle −2.57pp Under-5K Sets Dataset Record

From 426,864 ranked battles (Aug 17–24): Elite Barbarians rose at all 6 trophy ranges for the 3rd straight week. Hog Cycle's under-5K collapse set a single-range weekly record: −2.57pp to 8.13%.

August 21, 2026 — Elite Barbarians 66.8% WR at 5K–6K; Hog Cycle Falls at Three Ranges

From 419,922 ranked battles (Aug 14–21): Goblin Barrel Bait surged +2.03pp at under-5K. Elite Barbarians hit 66.8% WR at 5K–6K (dataset high at that point). Hog Cycle retreated at 6K–7K, 7K–8K, and 9K+.

August 20, 2026 — Elite Barbarians Evolution Peaks at 67.6% WR

From 419,099 ranked battles (Aug 13–20): Elite Barbarians Evolution hit 67.6% WR at 5K–6K (dataset high) and rose at all six trophy ranges.

August 18, 2026 — Elite Barbarians Evo #1 Riser at All Six Bands

From 427,466 ranked battles (Aug 11–18): Elite Barbarians Evolution was the largest use-share gainer at every trophy band simultaneously (+1.36pp to +2.18pp), reaching 67.8% WR at 5K–6K.

August 15, 2026 — Elite Barbarians Everywhere

From 464,232 ranked battles (Aug 8–15): Elite Barbarians Evolution gained use at every one of the six trophy ranges simultaneously — 67.3% WR at 5K–6K (then a full-dataset high) and 57.7% at 8K–9K (+2.39pp).

August 1–2, 2026 — The Pre-Patch Baseline

The final Season 85 windows (July 25–Aug 2, ~111,000–114,000 battles each): Hog Cycle surged to 12.5% use at 7K–8K (+1.2pp, 54.1% WR) — its highest mid-ladder share of Season 85 — while Mortar Cycle led the under-5K risers (+1.57pp, 50.3% WR) in its last window before the Season 86 patch nerfed Mortar Evolution on August 4.

July 2026 — Mega Knight's Rise and Correction

Ten snapshots (July 9–31, ~110,000–118,000 battles each) tracked one arc: Mega Knight's mid-month surge and late-month correction. Highlights: Mega Knight gained popularity in all six trophy bands simultaneously (July 9, peak +1.76pp at 7K–8K) and held 10%+ use in five of six bands (July 16); Goblin Barrel Bait posted Season 85's steepest single-band drops; Ram Rider hit 61% WR at 8K–9K (July 24, then the dataset's highest); by July 28–31, Mega Knight was shedding use at five bands while Hog Cycle reclaimed the 7K–8K lead.

June 2026 — Goblin Barrel Bait's Season 84 Peak

Four snapshots (June 18–29, all inside Season 84 Stone Cold, ~110,000–117,000 battles each): Goblin Barrel Bait was the most-played deck at 5K–8K trophies (up to 14.51% use) with Hog Cycle falling at every range above 5K (June 18); Royal Giant posted 56–61% win rates across four consecutive trophy bands (June 25–29); Mega Knight Bait made its largest recorded 9K+ weekly gain (+1.35pp to 7.37%, 53.7% WR, June 29).

FAQ

Is Minion Giant still viable after the October 2026 double nerf?

Yes — eighth consecutive 9K+ rising week, first full post-double-nerf window. The Oct 7 snapshot is the first clean read with both nerfs live (September 16 damage nerf: 189→168, −11%; October 6 hit speed nerf: 1.5s→1.7s, +13%). Despite both, 9K+: +0.54pp to 4.06% (52.2% WR, n=4,378) — use dipped 0.30pp from the 4.36% pre-nerf peak but WR improved from 51.6% to 52.2%. 7K–8K: +1.63pp to 3.68% (55.1% WR, n=2,714) — ninth consecutive rising week. 6K–7K: +1.77pp to 2.68% (58.6% WR, n=2,668) — 0.1pp below Hog Cycle's WR at that band. Based on 507,063 battles (September 30–October 7, 2026).

Is Hog Cycle declining at 9,000+ trophies?

Yes — twenty-fourth consecutive weekly use decline at 9K+. Hog Cycle fell −1.08pp to 9.03% (52.5% WR, n=9,731) in the September 30–October 7 window. Cumulative decline: 6.07pp from the 15.1% Season 87 peak (September 7). Mortar Cycle now leads 9K+ WR at 54.4% (4.04% use, n=4,356) — first time Mortar Cycle has topped the WR table. Based on ~91,936 battles (September 30–October 7, 2026).

Is Hog Cycle still good at 8,000–9,000 trophies in October 2026?

Hog Cycle declined −1.14pp at 8K–9K this snapshot — 14.34% use, 58.4% WR, n=17,121, co-leading WR with Mega Knight Bait (58.4%, n=5,431). Still the most-played and strongest-WR mainstream choice at this band. Based on ~104,670 battles (September 30–October 7, 2026).

Is Evo Electro Giant good in Season 88?

Second snapshot confirms real adoption. E-Giant Tornado at 9K+ jumped to #1 riser this week: +1.43pp to 3.33% (53.3% WR, n=3,584) — WR improved from 50.4% (first snapshot, early-adopter skew) to 53.3% (second snapshot, broader adoption). Electro Giant is the #1 riser at 7K–8K: +1.89pp to 3.69% (55.6% WR, n=2,721) and strong at 8K–9K: +1.39pp to 3.16% (54.5% WR, n=3,311). The five pre-launch weeks of rising anticipation, now confirmed by two consecutive post-launch risers. Based on 507,063 battles (September 30–October 7, 2026).

Is Elite Barbarians still viable after the September 8 nerf?

Barely viable at 5,000–6,000 trophies; retreating elsewhere. Sixteen consecutive snapshots of declines post-nerf: 5K–6K: 2.53% use (−0.40pp), 61.3%† WR (n=2,183) — seventh consecutive snapshot below 3% use; self-selection pool continues narrowing. At 6K–7K: 3.40% (−0.56pp), 57.5% WR (n=2,900). At 7K–8K: 4.79% (55.5%, n=4,016) — sixteenth consecutive decline. Based on 507,063 battles (September 30–October 7, 2026).

What is the best deck at 9,000+ trophies in October 2026?

Mortar Cycle leads 9K+ WR at 54.4% (4.04% use, n=4,356) — first time topping the table. Mega Knight posts 53.5% WR (n=3,670) and E-Giant Tornado 53.3% (n=3,584). Hog Cycle holds the volume crown at 9.03% use (52.5% WR, n=9,731) — twenty-fourth consecutive decline. Evo Electro Giant confirmed: E-Giant Tornado #1 riser at +1.43pp to 3.33% (53.3% WR, n=3,584). Minion Giant Cycle at 2.45% (51.1%, n=2,638). Based on ~91,936 battles (September 30–October 7, 2026).

What is the best deck at 7,000–8,000 trophies in October 2026?

Hog Cycle leads 7K–8K by volume: 12.95% use, 56.7% WR (n=10,869). Goblin Barrel Bait at 54.9% (n=9,327), Mega Knight at 55.8% (n=6,509). Electro Giant is the #1 riser: +1.89pp to 3.69% (55.6% WR, n=2,721). Minion Giant: ninth consecutive rising week at 3.68% (55.1% WR, n=2,714). Mega Knight Bait: 56.1% WR (n=4,035). Based on ~73,782 battles (September 30–October 7, 2026).

What is the best deck at 5,000–6,000 trophies in October 2026?

Hog Cycle leads 5K–6K by volume: 10.74% use, 60.4% WR (n=9,255). Electro Giant at 55.6% WR (n=2,742) is the rising challenger. Elite Barbarians (61.3%†, n=2,183) posts nominally high WR but has dropped to 2.53% use — seventh consecutive below-3% snapshot; specialist pool only. Based on 507,063 total battles (September 30–October 7, 2026).

What are the October 6, 2026 Clash Royale balance changes?

October 6 changes: Goblin Barrel first-hit speed 0.4s→0.3s (−25%); Goblin Drill gets Crown Tower spawn damage (20); Lava Hound damage 53→71 (+34%) with hit speed slower; Ram Rider damage +8%; Wall Breakers damage +7%; X-Bow damage +4%; Monk cast time faster (−25%); Three Musketeers HP +3%. Nerfs: Minion Giant hit speed 1.5s→1.7s (+13%); Hero Ice Wizard Freeze Damage −49%; Cannon Evolution barrage −7%; Barbarian Barrel damage −8%; Elixir Collector production and lifetime nerfed; Royal Ghost HP −5%; Skeletons spawn spread tightened. Golden Knight reworked (+5% damage, −9% dash range). Full list from Supercell October Balance Changes.

How often is this Clash Royale meta report updated?

This Meta Movers page is updated in place with each new TrophyCoach data snapshot — typically weekly during an active season, always from a trailing 7-day window of ranked battles (75,000–884,000+ battles per snapshot since June 2026). The current snapshot (September 30–October 7, 2026, 507,063 battles) always lives at this URL; superseded editions are condensed into the dated archive above.