Columns III is a quintessential puzzle game for the Sega Genesis. There are two main modes in the game: Pyramid (story) and Versus, where you can compete against one (or more) of your column-solving friends. Unlike most tile puzzles, Columns is unique in having three-jewel columns which can not bend/rotate, however the player can alternate the 3 colors that are present on each column. A diagonal or straight three-in-a-row is what you need to score points and ultimately, keep the screen from being clogged to the top.

For casual players, the Pyramid mode is rather difficult to play at first but you may get the hang of it after some critical thinking: You have to score as much columns as you can and raise the opponent's "floor" until it reaches the top. By the time you get to the fourth stage, the difficulty gets intense and one wrong move could spell disaster. Fortunately, there are special "jewels" which can cause various effects such as turning the opponent's screen black, upside down or obscuring the "Next" section. If you believe you have mastered the art of the Columns, try the hard mode in Pyramid and good luck!

Overall, an excellent tile puzzle which did not get as much recognition as it deserved and was trumped by the more popular Russian tile puzzle and its sequel which also came out in 1993. Another question that has gone unanswered for two decades is the Japan-only Columns II (which can be played on this website). How North America had Columns 1 and 3 but not 2 is one of the deepest mysteries in Sega history.

While you gave a good review of the gameplay, there are so many aspects you could have covered to make your review more complete.

- How does the game compare to Tetris, "the" puzzle game? And why has it been more popular?
- How are the graphics, music, addictiveness factors?

Good luck for your next review!

I didn't know they made 2 sequels to this game, huh. I have to agree with Janus. If you add more words to your review, then you would probably become one of my favorite reviewers fairly quickly. Eagerly hoping to see another review from you!