Trapped in a Cell With a Slot Machine: A Beginner's Guide to Not Dying in CloverPit
Welcome to CloverPit, a roguelite hell where the only thing between you and freedom is a slot machine and a mountain of debt. Let's get you out of there.
The first few runs of this game are a special kind of brutal. You’re locked in, that ATM is mocking you, and every spin feels like a desperate prayer. But it’s not all luck. The key is turning tiny advantages into game-breaking combos. I've been crushed by that debt more times than I can count, and I'm here to give you the essential tips that will make your first few runs a hell of a lot smoother.
Focus on the Long Game
When you're just starting out, it’s tempting to grab flashy, temporary upgrades. Don't. Your first priority should be permanent phone upgrades that provide a solid foundation for every run that follows. These are the boosts that stick around and make your life easier over time.
Similarly, start investing in Lucky Charms as early as possible. They aren't just pretty decorations; they are the engine of your entire run. The sooner you start building up your charm collection, the faster you can outpace that ever-growing debt.
Commit to a Symbol
Early in a run, you need to pick a favorite. Choose one symbol—Cherries are a great, reliable starting point—and build your entire strategy around it. Look for charms and upgrades that make it appear more often or increase its value. Concentrating on a single symbol is the fastest way to start building reliable combos and snowball your winnings from a trickle into a firehose of cash.
Don't Be Afraid to Reroll
The upgrade shop is your lifeline, but sometimes it offers you a steaming pile of garbage. Rerolling is a core mechanic, not a last resort. Early on, rerolls are dirt cheap, so don't hesitate to spend a few coins or tickets to fish for the powerful items that will define your run. A good charm in the first round is worth more than ten mediocre ones later.
Bank Your Coins
This is probably the most important tip for any new player. The bank is your best friend. After you're done shopping for the round, deposit every single coin you aren't using for your next few spins. Not only does banking keep your money safe from a soul-crushing 666 roll, but it also generates interest. That interest is one of the only constant, reliable sources of income in the game.
Know What to Buy
When you're staring at a shop full of Lucky Charms, prioritize anything with multipliers or base value boosts. These are the upgrades that have a massive impact over time. A charm that adds +1 coin might seem small, but when it’s getting hit dozens of times and then multiplied, it becomes an economic powerhouse.
Just as important is shaping the reel itself. Upgrades that remove unwanted symbols are just as valuable as ones that add good ones. The less junk on the screen, the higher your chances of hitting the combos you’ve built your strategy around.
When in Doubt, Spin More
The game only gives you three rounds per deadline. Generally, you want to maximize your chances to earn money within those rounds. Unless you’re trying to hit your debt target exactly, always opt for upgrades that give you more spins rather than fewer. More spins mean more opportunities for your combos to trigger and for your bank account to grow.
How to Not Actually Die
So you’ve miscalculated and the floor is about to give way. The game gives you a few precious seconds before the run officially ends. Use them. In this panic-induced grace period, you can still access your inventory. If you have a 'Lost Briefcase' stashed away, you might get just enough cash to hit the deadline. Even better is the 'Ankh,' which gives you two extra rounds. It's a lifesaver that can turn a dead run into a winning one.