Bejeweled Games are a series of puzzle video games developed and published by PopCap Games, now a subsidiary of Electronic Arts. The gameplay typically involves swapping adjacent gems on a grid to create lines or groups of three or more identical gems. When matched, these gems disappear, allowing new gems to fall into the grid from above.
The history of Bejeweled Games traces back to the early 2000s when PopCap Games, a Seattle-based game development company, released the original Bejeweled.
Bejeweled (2001): This was the first game in the series, developed by PopCap Games and initially released as a web-based game. It introduced the basic gameplay mechanics of matching gems to score points.
Bejeweled 2 (2004): The sequel to the original game was released for various platforms, including PC, mobile phones, and consoles. Bejeweled 2 introduced enhanced graphics, new game modes, and special gems like the Power Gem and Hypercube.
Bejeweled Twist (2008): This installment introduced a new twist on the classic gameplay by allowing players to rotate groups of four gems clockwise. Bejeweled Twist featured updated graphics and additional game modes.
Bejeweled Blitz (2009): Initially a Facebook game, Bejeweled Blitz was a fast-paced version of Bejeweled with one-minute rounds. It became extremely popular on social media platforms and spawned mobile versions.
Bejeweled 3 (2010): This sequel introduced even more game modes, including Quest mode, which featured mini-games and challenges. It also included enhanced graphics, sound effects, and animations.
Bejeweled Stars (2016): A spin-off of the main series, Bejeweled Stars featured a revamped progression system, power-ups, and unique challenges set in a celestial-themed environment.
Bejeweled Classic (2017): Released as a mobile game, Bejeweled Classic consolidated the gameplay of the earlier titles into one app. It allows players to enjoy the classic Bejeweled experience on their smartphones.
Bejeweled Champions (2020): Another mobile release, Bejeweled Champions featured competitive multiplayer modes and weekly tournaments. It adds a new dimension to the Bejeweled experience.
In Bejeweled Games, there are various special points, power-ups, and mechanics that players can utilize to enhance their gameplay experience and achieve higher scores. Here are some of the notable ones:
Matches: Matching three or more gems of the same color in a row or column earns points and clears those gems from the board.
Cascades: When gems are cleared from the board, the gems above them fall into the empty spaces. This can create chain reactions called cascades, where new matches are formed and more gems are cleared, earning additional points.
Power Gems: These are created by matching four gems in a row. When activated, a Power Gem explodes, clearing surrounding gems and earning extra points.
Hypercubes: Matching five gems in a row creates a Hypercube. When swapped with another gem, the Hypercube clears all gems of that color from the board, resulting in a substantial point bonus.
Flame Gems: Formed by matching gems in an L or T shape. When activated, Flame Gems explode, clearing gems in their surrounding area.
Star Gems: Created by matching gems in a 2x2 square. When activated, Star Gems clear all gems in the same row and column.
Multipliers: Some game modes feature multipliers that increase the points earned from matches. These can be activated by making consecutive matches or performing specific actions.
Time Gems: In timed game modes, special gems periodically appear on the board. Matching these gems adds extra time to the clock, allowing players to extend their gameplay.
Quests and Challenges: In certain game modes, players may encounter quests or challenges that offer additional rewards or special points for completing specific objectives.
Score Multipliers: Some game modes or power-ups provide temporary score multipliers, allowing players to earn more points for a limited time.
These special points, power-ups, and mechanics add depth and excitement to Bejeweled gameplay, encouraging players to strategize and aim for higher scores.