5 min to read

Block Droppin'

A fast-paced puzzle challenge for your Game Boy Color!

Featured image

The following is the homebrew GBC global release version of the game.

About the game

GAME OVERVIEW

Block Droppin’ is a fast-paced puzzle game to train your brain and test your reflexes: swap blocks to match three or more blocks of the same type, and use special blocks like bombs to your advantage. Block Droppin’ takes quick wits and concentration, so make sure your block-swapping skills are up to the task!

The game comprises two playing modes, Arcade and Puzzle, each with its own unique challenges and rewards.

That's it. Go play.

GAMEPLAY

The gameplay in Block Droppin is incredibly straightforward: scan the grid and look for opportunities to swap blocks in order to match three (or more!) blocks of the same type.

Race against the clock to score as many points as possible in Arcade Mode, or battle your way through multiple stages in Puzzle Mode as you attempt to clear a specific quota of blocks with limited moves!

BLOCKS

Block Droppin features a variety of different blocks, which are unlocked as you beat levels in Puzzle Mode. Look out for special blocks like bombs, which are capable of clearing entire rows and columns of blocks!

BLOCK SELECT

The Block Select screen appears in Arcade Mode, and allows you to choose the set of blocks with which you want to play (provided the blocks have been unlocked in Puzzle Mode!).

STAGE SELECT

The Stage Select screen appears in Puzzle Mode and allows you to choose between the various levels in the game (providing they have been unlocked previously).

RESULTS

The Results screen appears in both Arcade and Puzzle Modes:

In Arcade Mode, the screen displays the number of Matches, Combos, and your final Score. Pressing the A Button allows you to PLAY AGAIN or return to the MAIN MENU.

In Puzzle Mode, the screen displays the number of Matches, Combos, and a "Stage Clear!" message should you manage to beat the stage. Pressing the A Button allows you to PLAY AGAIN (or play the NEXT STAGE, if you cleared the previous), or return to the MAIN MENU.

CONTROLS

  • MENUS: The Dpad and A button are used for selecting menu items.
  • IN-GAME: The Dpad is used exclusively for moving your cursor, with the Dpad + A Button used for swapping blocks. The START Button brings up the PAUSE MENU.

PAUSE MENU

Pressing the START button during the game will pause the action. From here, you can push UP or DOWN on the Dpad to choose RESUME, NEW BOARD, or QUIT. Press the A button to choose an option, or press the B button to exit the menu.

CREDITS & ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Design, Code, Art and SFX: SHANE MCCAFFERTY (@egvroom)

Production: ANDY ROBERTS

Special Thanks: JIM SQUIRES

A ROCKETSHIP PARK production for Thalamus Digital.

RUNNING THE GAME

Block Droppin comes in three flavours: a GB file (for the original Game Boy), GBC (for the Game Boy Color), and POCKET (for the Analogue Pocket). The Game Boy ROMs are designed for use with Game Boy emulators such as mGBA (compatible with Windows, Mac, Linux, and Ubuntu) or a flash cartridge such as the EverDrive.

© 2024 Rocketship Park, Inc. Game Boy™ Color is a trademark of Nintendo Inc. This product is not sponsored, endorsed, or approved by Nintendo.

Block Droppin’ is a captivating puzzle game designed exclusively for the Game Boy Color, blending the thrill of arcade action with the strategic depth of puzzle-solving. Developed by Shane McCafferty (@egvroom) and produced by Andy Roberts, this game offers an immersive experience that challenges players to test their reflexes and quick wits.

The core gameplay revolves around manipulating blocks on a grid, aiming to match three or more blocks of the same type. Players must scan the grid with precision, identifying opportunities for strategic block swaps to create matches and trigger chain reactions. The pace is frenetic, demanding split-second decision-making and precise execution.

Featuring two distinct playing modes, Block Droppin’ offers a diverse range of challenges to engage players of all skill levels. In Arcade Mode, players must race against the clock, striving to score as many points as possible within the time limit. Every move counts as they aim for high scores and bragging rights among friends.

On the other hand, Puzzle Mode presents a structured challenge, with players navigating through multiple stages, each with its own unique objectives. From clearing a specific quota of blocks to overcoming obstacles with limited moves, Puzzle Mode tests players’ strategic acumen and problem-solving skills. As players progress, they unlock new blocks, adding depth and complexity to their gameplay options.

One of the key features of Block Droppin’ is its diverse array of blocks, each with its own distinct properties and strategic implications. Alongside standard blocks, players encounter special blocks like bombs, capable of clearing entire rows and columns with explosive efficiency. Mastering the use of these special blocks is essential for achieving high scores and overcoming the toughest challenges.

The game’s intuitive controls ensure smooth and responsive gameplay. In menus, players navigate using the D-pad and A button, while in-game, the D-pad allows precise cursor movement, with block swapping executed using D-pad + A Button combinations. The START button provides access to the pause menu, allowing players to take a breather or adjust settings mid-game.

Visually, Block Droppin’ boasts charming pixel art that harks back to the golden age of retro gaming. Each block is distinctively designed, ensuring clarity amidst the frenetic action. Accompanied by catchy sound effects and a dynamic soundtrack, the game creates an immersive experience that keeps players engaged for hours on end.

In the Results screen, players receive feedback on their performance, including the number of Matches, Combos, and their final Score. Whether celebrating a successful stage clear in Puzzle Mode or aiming for a new high score in Arcade Mode, players can choose to replay or advance to the next challenge with the press of a button.

Block Droppin’ stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of classic puzzle games, offering a blend of addictive gameplay, vibrant visuals, and nostalgic charm. With its accessible yet challenging mechanics, this Game Boy Color gem is sure to delight retro gaming enthusiasts and puzzle aficionados alike.

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