Confession. I'm not a gamer. I've never played Candy Crush or Angry Birds. Actually, I can't remember the last time I played any sort of phone based video game. Design Home has changed all of that!
The way it works is that you are given a room design challenge. Some challenges require specific items. As you design each room, you use diamonds and cash to buy furniture. You earn more of both when you complete a new challenge.
The "game" part comes in as each room is judged by users. Each room gets a score out of a possible 5. Users are ranked by score for each challenge. Results are compiled and presented as seasonal high scorers. All users vote on challenges to win "keys" to enter future challenges. One really cool aspect of this game is that you use real furniture that is available to purchase.
I have discovered a few hacks. First, use what you have - furniture, rugs, accessories - to design rooms to avoid spending your money. The game does sell credits if you get low (of course). Second, you need cash and diamonds so as long as your early pieces are timeless, they should score well. Finally, you get rewards each day so check back daily to receive your allowance.
This game is a lot of fun. The rooms and furniture are realistic. The challenges vary by style, room type and requirements. I encourage you to try it!