Triple Match Unveiled: A Fresh Take on Puzzles

Reviewing games for a living might sound like a dream job, but it comes with its own set of challenges that are often overlooked. Imagine trying to write a review while constantly battling the urge to dive back into the game you're supposed to be analyzing. Or, finding yourself only able to focus on your work while waiting for the game's timer to replenish your lives. It's a real struggle.

Triple Match, developed by Boombox Games, is a prime example of a casual match-three mobile game that can easily ensnare reviewers in this way. Despite not being the first of its kind, it stands out as a significant contender in the genre. Launched in April 2022, Triple Match has quickly amassed 20 million downloads across iOS and Android platforms, according to SensorTower. It has even sparked the creation of similar games, such as Peak's Match Factory, which followed 18 months later.

At its core, Triple Match follows the well-trodden path of free-to-play puzzle games. Players race against the clock to complete stages, using power-ups and boosts to enhance their chances of success. Coins earned from these stages can be spent on additional boosts, power-ups, extra attempts, and even gifts for teammates, thanks to the game's subtle multiplayer feature that allows for life requests and donations.

As players advance through the campaign, they can work towards various objectives, from building a Kyoto Zen Oasis to constructing an entire village, unlocking new features, and competing in tournaments. This is where Triple Match starts to diverge from the typical match-three formula.

Instead of the usual grid-based matching, Triple Match presents players with a chaotic pile of objects—ranging from pianos and notebooks to umbrellas and cakes. The challenge is to clear these items by tapping three identical ones in succession. The objects are transferred to a seven-slot bar at the bottom of the screen, and when three matching items appear in the bar, they disappear. However, filling the bar completely or running out of time results in a loss.

Initially, the game seems straightforward, but as players progress, the objects become increasingly similar, making it harder to distinguish between them. Is that a red and yellow rocket or a pair of binoculars? An apple or a tomato? The 3D jumble adds another layer of complexity, as shapes can easily be mistaken for one another. This forces players to make quick decisions under pressure, turning what starts as a simple task into a test of nerves, accuracy, and visual acuity.

To aid players, Triple Match includes various boosts and power-ups scattered throughout the jumble. These can clear items, add time, or instantly match three objects, among other benefits.

In conclusion, Triple Match can be described as "Mahjong meets Fruit Ninja." It's an addictive, colorful, and innovative addition to the match-three genre that penalizes hasty decisions and rewards teamwork. Themed events, such as those for Earth Week or Christmas, keep the game engaging throughout the year.

Triple Match is available on Google Play and the App Store, with more information available on the game's official site.

A Must For Puzzle Game Fans

For fans of casual free-to-play puzzle games on mobile, Triple Match is a highly recommended choice.

Graphics: 8
Gameplay: 8.3
Controls: 8