Brawl Stars Buffies: the permanent upgrade system from Update 69 — how it works

Buffies in Brawl Stars: everything you need to know

Discover what Buffies really are and why they matter in gameplay.
The three Buffie types per brawler and how to use them strategically.
How to unlock and equip Buffies.
Mistakes to avoid with the Buffies system.

Getting started

Brawl Stars has always captivated players with its unique characters and thrilling mechanics. One of the most fascinating additions to this universe is the Buffies system. In this article, we dive into everything you need to know about these upgrades and how they can influence your gameplay.

What are Buffies?

Buffies are not little creatures you bump into on the battlefield — they are permanent upgrades for your brawlers. In Supercell’s own words: “Buffies are buffs (get it?) to your Starr Powers, Gadgets, and Hypercharge!” Introduced in Update 69 “Brawler Blast” / Season 54 “Royal Academy” in December 2025, each brawler that has them gets three Buffies, and the system replaces the old Epic and Mythic gears entirely. What makes them strong is that they can really tip the balance in your favor, especially if you equip them on the right brawler.

The different types of Buffies

In Brawl Stars, each brawler has three Buffies, each with its own role. Here is the rundown:

Gadget Buffie

This Buffie permanently upgrades your brawler’s Gadget — for example, extra damage, a larger area or a shorter cooldown, depending on the brawler. It is a direct power boost to the tool you already use every match.

Super (Star Power) Buffie

The Super Buffie strengthens your Star Power / Super ability, making its effect measurably stronger. Great when your brawler’s whole game plan revolves around that Super.

Hyper Buffie

The Hyper Buffie boosts your Hypercharge: besides a stronger effect, every Hyper Buffie also grants a +2 second duration on the Hypercharge. All three Buffies can be equipped at the same time.

How to get Buffies

Buffies are unlocked through the new permanent progression layer added in Update 69 — they are not found in crates or dropped in matches like the old gears. You unlock and upgrade them per brawler with the dedicated Buffie resources, then equip up to all three at once in the brawler’s loadout. The key is to check each brawler’s Buffie tab and prioritize the ones matching your playstyle.

Strategies for using Buffies

Now that you know what Buffies are and how to get them, here is how to make the most of them.

Know your brawler’s breakpoints

The important thing is reading the actual effect. Do not equip a Gadget Buffie on a brawler whose gadget you rarely use — wait until the upgrade meaningfully changes a breakpoint (cooldown, damage, shield). For example, a Hyper Buffie’s +2 seconds is huge on brawlers whose Hypercharge is their teamfight win condition.

Coordinate with your team

If you play in a team, tell your teammates which Buffies you run — a buffed Hypercharge or a stronger Super changes how the comp should play around that brawler. Communication is key to optimizing Buffie setups.

Anticipate the enemy’s loadouts

Always consider what the enemy brawlers might have equipped. If you see a brawler running a strong Hyper Buffie, expect a longer Hypercharge and play around it. The more you anticipate, the better your odds.

Mistakes to avoid with Buffies

It is also important to know what not to do. Here are the common pitfalls.

Do not rush

Players tend to equip every Buffie they unlock right away. Be careful not to waste upgrade resources on a brawler you do not main — sometimes it is better to save them for a brawler that really benefits.

Do not ignore Buffies

Conversely, leaving Buffies unequipped is just as costly. They permanently change the course of matches if used correctly — check your loadouts regularly, especially after each update adds new ones.

Final thoughts

Buffies in Brawl Stars are a formidable asset if you know how to use them. They add an extra strategic layer that can really make the difference. Whether you go for Gadget, Super or Hyper Buffies, remember that picking the right brawler and reading the exact effect is crucial. So next time you prepare to play, do not forget to slot these tips into your strategy. Good luck on the battlefield!