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Columns

Sega Game Gear

Release Date: 1990

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Description

Columns, released for the Sega Game Gear in 1990, is a captivating puzzle game that draws players into a world of falling jewels and strategic gameplay. In this game, players are tasked with manipulating columns of three different colored jewels as they fall from the top of the screen. The main objective is to align these columns either horizontally, vertically, or diagonally into sets of three or more matching colors to clear them from the playfield and earn points. As players progress, the jewels fall faster, and the game becomes increasingly challenging. The inclusion of a special “Magic Jewel” that appears randomly adds a layer of strategy, as it can clear all jewels of the color it is swapped with when aligned.

Columns was not only a staple on the Sega Game Gear but also part of a broader trend during the early 90s where puzzle games gained immense popularity. Originally created by Jay Geertsen in 1989, the game was later adapted by Sega, who turned it into a hit across multiple platforms, establishing Columns as a classic within the puzzle genre. Its implementation on the Game Gear showcased the console's ability to deliver engaging portable gaming experiences, complete with vibrant graphics and addictive gameplay. The game also featured multiple modes, including Flash Columns where the objective is to clear a particular jewel in a stacked grid, enhancing replayability. Columns remains a beloved example of the genre and a nostalgic favorite for fans of the Game Gear era.