"Clash of Clans" is a free game for both Android and iOS devices. However, as players get deeper into the game, the temptation to spend real money to get through the game becomes even greater.

Players should be very careful with their gems. This is the game's premium currency that allows for special items to be purchased and tasks to be completed quickly.

Players should not use their valuable gems to speed up production or to help them construct buildings faster. Instead they should only use gems for something that they can keep or really want. Certain buildings may be available on a limited-time-only basis. This is an acceptable time to use gems, but do not use them on speeding up production or other buildings.

The best way to accumulate gems is by completing missions and clearing natural obstacles.

Once a player has enough gems, they will have to think what items they really want to purchase. The game takes a long time to get through, and it may be a while before players will be able to make another major purchase with gems, so they should spend them very wisely.

In "Clash of Clans," players can choose to be defensive or offensive players. Depending on their choice, they will want to focus on certain structures. Defensive players will immediately want to focus on upgrading their town hall, their walls and their defensive structures. Mortar and air defense are the most important towers, so those should be positioned near the middle of the map with lots of protection.

Offensive players will also want to focus on their town hall building. Then they will want to get their elixir production up and running so that they can start stockpiling their resources quickly. Barracks and camps will need to be upgraded so that troops can be trained for attacks. Building the laboratory will help upgrade troops.

Once attacked by another player, players receive a certain amount of shield time. This is their opportunity to upgrade their army and towers, so that future attacks will not be as harmful.

For more hints and cheats for "Clash of Clans," visit iMore.

"Clash of Clans" is available for free from the Google Play Store and from the Apple App Store.