# Columns > 1990 match-three puzzle video game **Wikidata**: [Q1112940](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1112940) **Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Columns_(video_game)) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/columns ## Summary Columns is a video game that combines two puzzle game genres: match-three video game and falling block puzzle game. [1] ## Summary *Columns* is a 1990 match-three puzzle video game developed in the United States. It was released for multiple platforms, including arcade machines, home consoles like the Super Nintendo Entertainment System and Sega Genesis, and later adapted for modern systems such as Microsoft Windows, macOS, iOS, and Linux. The game is known for its falling block puzzle mechanics and has been rated suitable for all ages. ## Key Facts - Released in 1990, developed in the United States. - Available on arcade machines, Super Nintendo Entertainment System, Sega Genesis, MSX, TurboGrafx-16, NEC PC-9800 series, and later ports for Microsoft Windows, macOS, iOS, Linux, and PlayStation 3. - Genres include match-three puzzle and falling block puzzle. - Rated PEGI 3 and CERO A (All ages). - Supports single-player and cooperative multiplayer modes. - Distributed on platforms like Steam, with a Steam application ID of 34285. - Has multiple aliases, including *Jewels*, *Shapes and Columns*, and *Jewelbox*. - Includes identifiers for various databases, such as IMDB (tt0475242), MobyGames (7685), and Giant Bomb (3030-5487). ## FAQs - **What platforms did *Columns* support?** The game was released on arcade machines, the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, Sega Genesis, MSX, TurboGrafx-16, NEC PC-9800 series, and later adapted for Microsoft Windows, macOS, iOS, Linux, and PlayStation 3. - **What genres does *Columns* belong to?** The game is classified as a match-three puzzle and a falling block puzzle. - **What are the ratings for *Columns*?** The game has a PEGI rating of 3 and a CERO rating of A (All ages). - **What modes of play does *Columns* offer?** The game supports single-player and cooperative multiplayer modes. - **Where can *Columns* be purchased or accessed?** The game is distributed on Steam and has been available on various platforms over the years. - **What are some of the game's aliases?** The game is also known as *Jewels*, *Shapes and Columns*, and *Jewelbox*. - **What databases include *Columns*?** The game has entries in IMDB (tt0475242), MobyGames (7685), Giant Bomb (3030-5487), and other gaming databases. ## Why It Matters *Columns* holds significance as a foundational match-three puzzle game that has been adapted across multiple platforms over the years. Its release in 1990 marked an early entry in the genre, influencing later puzzle games with its falling block mechanics. The game's availability on diverse systems, including modern platforms, ensures its continued accessibility to players. Its all-ages rating reflects its family-friendly design, making it a staple in casual gaming. The game's presence in various databases and its adaptation for different operating systems highlight its enduring relevance in the gaming industry. ## Notable For - One of the earliest match-three puzzle games released in 1990. - Available on a wide range of platforms, including arcade machines and modern systems. - Rated suitable for all ages, making it accessible to a broad audience. - Supports both single-player and cooperative multiplayer modes. - Distributed on Steam, ensuring digital accessibility. - Has multiple aliases, including *Jewels* and *Shapes and Columns*. ## Body ### Overview *Columns* is a 1990 match-three puzzle video game developed in the United States. The game is known for its falling block puzzle mechanics and has been adapted for multiple platforms, including arcade machines, home consoles, and modern systems. It was rated suitable for all ages and supports both single-player and cooperative multiplayer modes. ### Platforms The game was originally released on arcade machines and later adapted for various home consoles, including the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, Sega Genesis, MSX, TurboGrafx-16, and NEC PC-9800 series. Modern ports include Microsoft Windows, macOS, iOS, Linux, and PlayStation 3. The game's availability on diverse platforms ensures its continued accessibility to players. ### Genres *Columns* is classified as a match-three puzzle and a falling block puzzle. These genres define its core gameplay, where players match and eliminate blocks to progress through levels. ### Ratings The game has received ratings from PEGI and CERO, indicating its suitability for all ages. The PEGI rating is 3, and the CERO rating is A (All ages), reflecting its family-friendly design. ### Gameplay Modes *Columns* supports single-player and cooperative multiplayer modes. The single-player mode allows players to progress through levels independently, while the cooperative mode enables players to work together to achieve objectives. ### Distribution The game is distributed on Steam, with a Steam application ID of 34285. This digital distribution ensures easy access for players on modern platforms. ### Aliases *Columns* is also known by several aliases, including *Jewels*, *Shapes and Columns*, and *Jewelbox*. These alternative names reflect the game's presence in different regions and its adaptation for various platforms. ### Databases and Identifiers The game has entries in various databases, including IMDB (tt0475242), MobyGames (7685), Giant Bomb (3030-5487), and others. These identifiers ensure the game's presence in the broader gaming ecosystem and facilitate its discovery by players. ### Historical Context *Columns* was released in 1990, marking an early entry in the match-three puzzle genre. Its development in the United States contributed to its widespread availability on various platforms. The game's enduring relevance is evident in its continued adaptation for modern systems and its presence in multiple databases. ### Impact and Legacy *Columns* has had a lasting impact on the gaming industry, influencing later puzzle games with its falling block mechanics. Its availability on diverse platforms and its all-ages rating have made it a staple in casual gaming. The game's presence in various databases and its adaptation for different operating systems highlight its enduring relevance in the gaming industry. ## References 1. [Sega](https://www.sega.jp/mdmini/soft/columns.html) 2. Steam 3. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013 4. PCGamingWiki 5. [Source](https://mediaarts-db.bunka.go.jp/id/M719438) 6. [Source](https://mediaarts-db.bunka.go.jp/id/C31650) 7. RetroAchievements 8. Giant Bomb 9. Q124398839