Columns

Columns is loosely derived from Tetris, as it involves arranging falling blocks in such a way as to clear them. However, in columns they are groups of 3 same-size but varying color blocks, which must be arranged into sequences of 3 or more, either horizontally, vertically or diagonally. Sequences of 4 or 5 count for double or triple points, and diagonal sequences score the most. The real trick is to set up 'combos' - where one line causes other blocks to drop so as to create other lines. As well as the normal game mode, there is also a 'flash' mode, in which the aim is simply to remove a particular block from the base of the pre-formed pile of bricks. The difficulty of this can be determined...

Genre: Puzzle
Year: 1991
Developer: Nihon Telenet
Publisher: SEGA
Players: 2

Get Etera

P2P Netplay available on compatible cores

Achievements

15 achievements · 218 total points

King of Columns Starting from Level 0, score 300,000 points in Arcade mode
50 pts
Light Trinkets Starting from Level 0, reach Level 5 in Arcade mode
5 pts
Heavy Embroidery Starting from Level 0, reach Level 15 in Arcade mode
25 pts
Intermediary Jewels Starting from Level 0, reach Level 10 in Arcade mode
10 pts
Queen of Columns Starting from Level 0, score 100,000 points in Arcade mode
25 pts
Bishop of Columns Starting from Level 0, score 50,000 points in Arcade mode
10 pts
Knight of Columns Starting from Level 0, score 30,000 points in Arcade mode
10 pts
Pawn of Columns Starting from Level 0, score 10,000 points in Arcade mode
5 pts
Spinner of Life Starting from the Novice class at Level 0, reach Level 30 in Practice mode
3 pts
Drawer of Lots Starting from the Amateur class at Level 0, reach Level 30 in Practice mode
5 pts
Shears of the Abhorrent Starting from the Pro class at Level 0, reach Level 30 in Practice mode
10 pts
Bead Breaker Clear 50 gems in Arcade mode
2 pts
Precious Progress Clear 100 gems in Arcade mode
3 pts
Shards of Strife Clear 250 gems in Arcade mode
5 pts
Carving Fate Clear 1,000 gems in Arcade mode
50 pts

Columns leaderboard

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Columns frequently asked questions

How do I play Columns online with a friend?

Columns (PC Engine/TurboGrafx-16) can be played online with friends using Etera's P2P netplay. Create a room in the launcher and invite your friend, who joins through the invite. Step by step:

Download the Etera launcher for Windows or Linux and create your account.
Ask your friend to do the same and add them to your friends list.
Pick the game in the library and create a netplay room.
Invite your friend: they accept the invite and join the room.
The launcher keeps dependencies on the same version for both players, avoiding desync.

How do I play Columns on PC?

Download the Etera launcher (Windows or Linux), find Columns in the PC Engine/TurboGrafx-16 library and click to download. The launcher handles the emulator and setup for you.

Does Columns netplay lag?

Etera uses a direct P2P connection between players, which usually means low latency. Results depend on each player's internet quality.

Does Columns have achievements?

Yes, Columns has 15 achievements worth 218 points. Achievements are counted and saved to your history and the leaderboard for subscribers and during the trial period.

Can I play Columns for free?

Yes. Every account gets a 5-day trial with premium features. After that, the free plan allows 3 new games per day and 1 netplay session per day. Premium raises those limits.

Play Columns on Etera

Download the launcher for Windows or Linux, find this game in the library and play solo or with friends.