Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Sega Ages 2500: Vol.7 – Columns resurrects the classic match-three puzzle action with a modern twist, delivering both the familiar jewel-stacking mechanic and fresh new modes to keep veterans and newcomers hooked. At its core, Columns tasks you with vertically aligning falling stacks of three colored gems so that identical colors line up horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. The simplicity of the rules belies the intense strategic depth, as you learn to anticipate incoming stacks, set up chain reactions, and outmaneuver your opponent.

Beyond the original arcade rules, this remake introduces a robust selection of game types. Two-player head-to-head and CPU versus modes let you test your reflexes against friends or AI opponents with adjustable difficulty. Challenge Mode crafts a series of preset puzzles that ramp up in complexity, requiring precision and quick thinking. Survival and Time Attack modes add a relentless pressure—survive as long as you can against ever-faster drops or rack up a high score before the clock runs out.

The newly added “Story” mode stands out by weaving Columns matches into a light narrative, complete with boss encounters and themed stages. Though the story itself remains minimalistic, it provides a sense of progression and gives purpose to each victory. This variety of playstyles ensures that Columns never feels stale, encouraging repeated sessions to master each mode’s unique demands and discover advanced tactics.

Graphics

One of the most noticeable changes in this Sega Ages release is the fully polygonal visual overhaul. Gone are the flat, pixel-based shapes of the original; in their place are smooth 3D gems that glint and rotate as they fall. The transition to polygons freshens up the experience without sacrificing the clarity you need to spot color matches at a glance. The playfield is crisp, and the background animations—ranging from starfields to abstract geometric patterns—add visual flair without becoming distracting.

User interface elements have also been updated for the high-definition era. Menus are rendered with polished icons and clear fonts, and transitions between screens feel snappier than ever. In two-player and CPU matches, split-screen presentation keeps both sides of the action fully visible. When chains and combos light up, you’re greeted with satisfying particle effects and sound cues that make every triumph feel earned.

As a collectible bonus, the package includes a small printed booklet packed with liner notes and artwork. It showcases concept sketches of the 3D models, commentary on the development choices, and nostalgic reflections on the original Columns release. This physical add-on enhances the graphical presentation by giving fans a behind-the-scenes glimpse at how the polygons came to life.

Story

While Columns is not traditionally story-driven, Sega Ages 2500 Vol.7 injects a playful narrative framework into the puzzle action. In Story mode, you embark on a globe-trotting gem-hunting adventure, facing off against quirky rival characters in a series of themed stages. Each opponent brings a unique visual motif—icy landscapes, fiery caverns, ancient ruins—that subtly influences the mood as you play.

The encounters are introduced with brief text dialogues and character portraits, lending personality to what would otherwise be a straightforward high-score chase. Boss matches in particular ratchet up the drama: these climactic battles feature more aggressive drop speeds and cleverly designed gem configurations that force you to adapt your usual cascading tactics. It’s a lighthearted approach, but it injects enough context to keep you curious about who you’ll face next.

The included liner notes booklet supplements the in-game story by offering background on the characters and design philosophies. Although the narrative remains secondary to the puzzle mechanics, this added layer of lore makes Story mode feel like a cohesive mini-campaign rather than a mere succession of random matches.

Overall Experience

Sega Ages 2500: Vol.7 – Columns strikes a fine balance between preserving the addictive simplicity of the original and introducing modern enhancements that broaden its appeal. With multiple game modes, a polished polygonal aesthetic, and a charming if lightweight story mode, it delivers hours of pick-up-and-play enjoyment. Whether you’re rekindling childhood memories or discovering Columns for the first time, the variety on offer ensures there’s always a fresh challenge to tackle.

The inclusion of a physical booklet with liner notes and art is a thoughtful touch that turns this release into a collector’s item. It underscores Sega’s commitment to honoring its legacy while giving fans something tangible to hold on to. Performance is rock-solid, even in split-screen multiplayer, and the controls remain as responsive as ever, making it easy to string together long chains and unlock satisfying combos.

For puzzle aficionados and casual gamers alike, this remake of Columns is a must-have on the Sega Ages 2500 roster. Its blend of nostalgia, accessible mechanics, and expanded content makes it an engaging package that holds up well against contemporary puzzle titles. If you’re seeking a deep yet approachable distraction with enduring replay value, Columns delivers on all fronts.

Retro Replay Score

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