Columns

~ COLUMNS ~

Telenet / Sega

HuCard

1991

Porting Columns wasn't exactly a high-risk proposition for Telenet. Still, they did a job worthy of commendation with this conversion; it's a fine rendition of Sega's solid gemstone puzzler. The PCE stands tall in performing the semi-brooding soundtrack (which was always the game's greatest strength). And, I must say, I like the cover art.

Columns is no Puyo Puyo in any respect, as it lacks that title's charisma, color, and excitement. It is not as clever in concept as seminal Tetris, nor is it as addictive. But it remains one of the more enjoyable well-puzzle games released during its day, and playing it can actually be rather relaxing: you may find yourself in a comfortable zone amidst the methodical block-drops and atmospheric score.

There's a brief tutorial just in case you're baffled by the incredibly complicated rules.

Practice mode offers more options for customizing your play experience than does Arcade...

...but the mode you choose might just come down to whether you prefer blue or orange.

Your point total will really soar if you can knock out lots of blocks at once and set off chain reactions.

You'll probably find that most of your chains will be pleasant surprises rather than the results of any clever maneuvering on your part, but you can put yourself in position for success by setting up diagonal combinations.

If all else fails, perhaps a "wildcard" gemset will bail you out of a jam.