Is Bejeweled the original?

Is Bejeweled the Original Match-Three Game?

Bejeweled, a popular match-three puzzle game, has been a staple in the gaming world for over two decades. But, did you know that it’s not the original match-three game? In this article, we’ll delve into the history of match-three games and explore whether Bejeweled is indeed the original.

A Brief History of Match-Three Games

The concept of match-three games dates back to the 1980s, when a Russian computer game called Shariki (or "the balls") was first released. This game involved swapping colored balls to create sets of three in a row, which would then disappear. Shariki was a simple yet addictive game that laid the foundation for the match-three genre.

The Rise of Match-Three Games

In the 1990s, match-three games started to gain popularity, with the release of games like Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords in 2008. This game added RPG elements to the match-three formula, making it a hit among gamers. Bejeweled, developed by PopCap Games, was released in 2001 and quickly became a sensation, thanks to its simple yet engaging gameplay.

Is Bejeweled the Original?

So, is Bejeweled the original match-three game? The answer is no. Shariki, a Russian computer game, predates Bejeweled by over a decade. While Bejeweled popularized the match-three genre, it’s not the original. Shariki laid the groundwork for the genre, and Bejeweled built upon that foundation.

Why Bejeweled is Still a Favorite

Despite not being the original, Bejeweled remains a beloved game. Here are some reasons why:

• Simple yet Addictive Gameplay: Bejeweled’s gameplay is easy to learn, yet challenging to master. The game’s simplicity makes it accessible to players of all ages and skill levels.
• Highly Addictive: Bejeweled’s fast-paced gameplay and rewarding experience make it hard to put down. Players can play for hours, trying to beat their high scores or complete levels.
• Variety of Modes: Bejeweled offers several game modes, including Timed, Relaxed, and Puzzle modes. This variety keeps the game fresh and exciting, even after multiple playthroughs.

Other Match-Three Games

While Bejeweled is not the original, there are many other match-three games that have been released over the years. Here are a few notable ones:

• Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords: As mentioned earlier, this game added RPG elements to the match-three formula, making it a hit among gamers.
• Gardenscapes: A popular match-three game with a strong focus on gardening and puzzle-solving.
• Toon Blast: A cartoon-style match-three game with a variety of levels and power-ups.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Bejeweled is not the original match-three game, it’s still a beloved game that has contributed significantly to the genre. Shariki, a Russian computer game, laid the foundation for the match-three genre, and Bejeweled built upon that foundation. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a casual player, Bejeweled is a game that’s sure to entertain and challenge you.

Additional Resources

• Shariki: A Russian computer game that predates Bejeweled.
• Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords: A match-three game that added RPG elements to the genre.
• Gardenscapes: A popular match-three game with a strong focus on gardening and puzzle-solving.
• Toon Blast: A cartoon-style match-three game with a variety of levels and power-ups.