Home /
TurboGrafx-16

Columns

TurboGrafx-16

TurboGrafx-16

Columns is loosely derived from Tetris, as it involves arranging falling blocks in such a way as to clear them. However, in columns they are groups of 3 same-size but varying color blocks, which must be arranged into sequences of 3 or more, either horizontally, vertically or diagonally. Sequences...

Download

0/5 Votes: 0

Report

Developer
Shin-Nihon Laser Soft

Released on
1991

Size
1–2 Players

Version
TurboGrafx-16

Requirements
NEC TurboGrafx-16

Downloads
Puzzle

Publisher
Telenet Japan

ESRB Rating
Not Rated

Report this app

Images

Description

Columns is loosely derived from Tetris, as it involves arranging falling blocks in such a way as to clear them. However, in columns they are groups of 3 same-size but varying color blocks, which must be arranged into sequences of 3 or more, either horizontally, vertically or diagonally. Sequences of 4 or 5 count for double or triple points, and diagonal sequences score the most. The real trick is to set up ‘combos’ – where one line causes other blocks to drop so as to create other lines.

As well as the normal game mode, there is also a ‘flash’ mode, in which the aim is simply to remove a particular block from the base of the pre-formed pile of bricks. The difficulty of this can be determined by increasing the number of complete rows which are already in place.

Columns

Overview & History

Released in 1990 by Sega during the height of the 16-bit puzzle craze, Columns made its way to the TurboGrafx-16 as a mesmerizing alternative to competing falling-block titles. Steeped in an ancient Phoenician and Greco-Roman aesthetic, the game eschews standard geometric shapes for cascading columns of glistening, multi-colored jewels. Unlike its rivals, the core premise relies heavily on ancient mythology and matching matching triads rather than completing solid lines. While it debuted on the Sega Genesis and arcade systems, the TurboGrafx-16 port is celebrated for its crisp, vibrant color palette, sparkling visual effects, and a haunting, hypnotic chiptune soundtrack composed by Hirokazu Tanaka, which elevates the meditative gameplay into an almost trance-like competitive experience.

Gameplay Features & Mechanics

Players must manipulate vertical pillars consisting of three randomized jewels as they descend into a vertical well. The primary objective is to align three or more identical jewels horizontally, vertically, or diagonally to make them vanish and accumulate points. As your score increases, the drop speed escalates, forcing split-second strategic placement. A standout mechanic is the 'Magic Jewel'; when this special item reaches the bottom, it eradicates every single jewel of the corresponding color currently on the board, creating massive cascade chains and dramatic comebacks. The game includes both an endless Marathon mode and a Flash mode, where players must clear a specific blinking jewel buried at the bottom of a pre-set stack.