Well, This is Unexpected

There's no denying that there is a wide assortment of mahjong games available for play on the computer, and while they have slightly different themes and a few slightly altered game modes, they all follow roughly the same formula. This title does not fall in that category. I was fully expecting another mahjong game with lush graphics and a plinky-plunky soundtrack, but what I got was a game with a whole new gameplay mechanic that I have never encountered in a mahjong game before.

Instead of scanning the existing field of tiles stacked in some challenging orientation, you are presented with a moving conveyor belt of mahjong tiles at the bottom of the screen, quickly collecting and ultimately causing your demise should the conveyor belt become full. In order to prevent this, you grab a tile from the bottom and match it with an identical tile from the field. Like a standard mahjong game, the level ends when the entire field is cleared.

Serenity and Energy, Harmony and Chaos

It's all about balance, and you must definitely get equal quantities of yin and yang with Mahjong Match. On the one hand, the background graphics and music are absolutely gorgeous, encapsulating your gaming experience in an air of serenity and peace. It's all very calming and appealing. On the other hand, you have a conveyor belt of tiles at the bottom of the screen that can cause more than a little bit of stress. After all, you've got to ensure that this belt stays relatively clear so that you don't lose!

In this way, you get a rich dichotomy of fast and slow, relaxing and hectic. It's a paradox of sorts and this is part of what gives this game such a unique character. What is missing from this offering are a few other game modes, as it would have been nice to enjoy a little more in terms of variety.

Explosive Additions

Naturally, there is also a wide assortment of power-ups and items that come into play as well. Bombs blow excess tiles out of the water, hourglasses slow the action down to a more methodical pace, and magic wands allow you to remove any tile on the field. These all add to a package that is a feast for the eyes, a challenge for the brain, and a whole lot of fun.

If you're in the mood for something that is eerily familiar, yet wholly novel at the same time, you would not be ill advised to check out this title. The music engulfs you with utter serenity, the gameplay will keep you captivated and engaged, and the increasingly challenging levels will keep you coming back for more. Thankfully, you also have the choice to play in full screen or windowed mode as well, in case you want to multi-task.