Match 3 Games
About Match 3 Games
When it comes to the world of virtual games, Match 3 Games occupy a special place. This particular category attracts a diverse population of different ages, genders, and educational levels. Despite their widespread popularity, the secret ingredient behind the appeal of match-3 games remains a mystery - even to the developers themselves. Without a shred of doubt, it's expected to find at least one Match 3 game on every smartphone, tablet or device. This category boasts game hits such as Zuma and Candy Crush Saga.
The roots of match 3 games can be traced back to a genre of computer games, where the playing field is characterized by a grid or table filled with items. The main objective of the player is to manipulate these elements to match the model patterns suggested by the game. After a successful match, the elements disappear from the grid, often resulting in some form of reward or progression within the game. Although there are many games in this category, one that stands out and is often referred to as the torchbearer is Bejeweled.
What types of free match-3 games are there?
Launched in 2001, Bejeweled was the game that revolutionized the match-3 genre. Interestingly, its predecessor was a game called "Balls", which dates back to 1994. However, one cannot talk about the origins of this category without mentioning the legendary Tetris, which arguably paved the way for modern match-3 games.
While there are many types of Match 3 games, they all share some distinctive characteristics:
- They are primarily aimed at people over the age of thirty-five, especially women.
- These games require little memory and support almost all platforms.
- The game model is usually shareware, meaning that the user can play for free for a certain period of time or with a limited set of features.
One thing that makes match 3 games unique is their simplicity. They do not require advanced skills or heavy thinking; instead, they offer the perfect escapism for players to enjoy vague time frames, be it during the commute or at work during a break.
What you can learn in online Match 3 games
Match 3 games may seem simple on the surface, but they often contain elements of strategy, problem solving, and quick decision making. Aside from the obvious benefit of occupying one's free time, these games can improve cognitive functions and decision-making skills.
Best Online Match 3 Games
With countless options available, identifying the best match 3 games could be challenging. However, the following have significantly shaped the genre:
- Zuma: In this fast-paced puzzle game, players must match colored balls before they reach the endpoint.
- Candy Crush Saga: A game that has gained iconic status in the genre, it incorporates colorful candy elements.
- Bejeweled: Arguably the game that started it all, it's a classic match-3 puzzle game.
- GardenScapes: It creatively combines match-3 with elements of garden renovation and decoration.
- Homescapes: From the creators of GardenScapes, this game follows a similar pattern but within a home environment.
Conclusion
Despite the plethora of games available today, online Match 3 games continue to carve out a significant place in the hearts of gamers. The appeal of these games lies not only in their simplicity, but also in their ability to attract a wide range of audiences. Whether you're a beginner entering the gaming world or a veteran gamer, the appeal of Match 3 games is both universal and enduring.