Difference between revisions of "Columns"

From Sega Retro
 
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| tab6=Super Famicom
 
| tab6=Super Famicom
 
| publisher={{multicol|
 
| publisher={{multicol|
−
{{company|[[Sega]]|system=SYSC, MD, GG, SMS|inline=no}}
+
{{company|[[Sega]]|system=SYSC,MD,GG,SMS,VC,VC3DS|inline=no}}
 
{{company|[[Laser Soft]]|system=PCE|inline=no}}
 
{{company|[[Laser Soft]]|system=PCE|inline=no}}
 
{{company|[[Nihon Telenet]]|system=MSX2,FMTowns|inline=no}}
 
{{company|[[Nihon Telenet]]|system=MSX2,FMTowns|inline=no}}
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{{company|[[M2]]{{ref|https://www.mtwo.co.jp/development/retrogame-2/#tab-1}}{{ref|https://www.mtwo.co.jp/development/retrogame-2/#tab-4}}|system=VC, VC3DS}}
 
{{company|[[M2]]{{ref|https://www.mtwo.co.jp/development/retrogame-2/#tab-1}}{{ref|https://www.mtwo.co.jp/development/retrogame-2/#tab-4}}|system=VC, VC3DS}}
 
}}
 
}}
−
| licensor={{company|[[Sega]]|system=PCE,MSX2,FMTowns,SFC}}
+
| distributor={{company|[[Kanal 10]]|region=SE rental|system=MD}}
 +
{{company|[[Tec Toy]]|system=MD,SMS,GG|region=BR}}
 +
{{company|[[Korea Oacs]]|region=KR|system=SMS}}
 +
{{company|[[Samsung]]|region=KR|system=SMS,GG}}
 +
| licensor={{company|[[Sega Enterprises, Ltd.]]|system=PCE,MSX2,FMTowns,SFC}}
 
| system=[[Sega System C]], [[Sega Mega Drive]], [[Sega Game Gear]], [[Sega Master System]], [[FM Towns]], [[MSX2]], [[PC Engine]], [[Super Famicom]], [[Steam]], [[iOS]], [[Wii]] & [[Nintendo 3DS]] [[Virtual Console]], [[Nintendo Switch Online]]  
 
| system=[[Sega System C]], [[Sega Mega Drive]], [[Sega Game Gear]], [[Sega Master System]], [[FM Towns]], [[MSX2]], [[PC Engine]], [[Super Famicom]], [[Steam]], [[iOS]], [[Wii]] & [[Nintendo 3DS]] [[Virtual Console]], [[Nintendo Switch Online]]  
 
| sounddriver={{MD}} [[SMPS Z80]]
 
| sounddriver={{MD}} [[SMPS Z80]]
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In early 1990, Geertsen sold the rights to Sega, who has controlled the license ever since. Sega is not thought to own the code of the aforementioned versions, just the mechanics surrounding the game.
 
In early 1990, Geertsen sold the rights to Sega, who has controlled the license ever since. Sega is not thought to own the code of the aforementioned versions, just the mechanics surrounding the game.
 +
 +
During development and reportedly in its location test form, the arcade game was known as '''''Drops''''' (ドロップス).
  
 
==Versions==
 
==Versions==
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{{Scanbox
 
{{Scanbox
 
| console=Mega Drive
 
| console=Mega Drive
−
| region=SE rental (Kanal10)
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| region=SE (rental; [[Kanal 10]])
 
| cover=Columns MD SE rental cover.jpg
 
| cover=Columns MD SE rental cover.jpg
 
}}{{Scanbox
 
}}{{Scanbox
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| back=Columns GG UK Box Back.jpg
 
| back=Columns GG UK Box Back.jpg
 
| spinemissing=yes
 
| spinemissing=yes
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| cart=
+
| cart=Columns gg eu cart.jpg
 
| manual=
 
| manual=
 
}}{{Scanbox
 
}}{{Scanbox
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| back=
 
| back=
 
| spine=
 
| spine=
−
| cart=
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| cart=Columns gg eu cart.jpg
−
| manual=
+
| manual=Columns GG PT Manual.jpg
 
}}{{Scanbox
 
}}{{Scanbox
 
| console=Game Gear
 
| console=Game Gear

Latest revision as of 01:16, 5 November 2024

For the versions published by SystemSoft, see Columns Taisen Mode Tsuki.

n/a

  • System C
  • Mega Drive
  • Master System
  • Game Gear
  • PC Engine
  • Super Famicom

Columns SystemC2Title.png

Columns MD title.png

Columns SMS Title.png

Columns GG Title.png

Columns PCE title.png

Columns SFC JP SSTitle.jpg

Columns
System(s): Sega System C, Sega Mega Drive, Sega Game Gear, Sega Master System, FM Towns, MSX2, PC Engine, Super Famicom, Steam, iOS, Wii & Nintendo 3DS Virtual Console, Nintendo Switch Online
Publisher:
Arcade (System C)
Sega Mega Drive
Sega Game Gear
Sega Master System
Wii Virtual Console
Nintendo 3DS Virtual Console
Sega
PC Engine
Laser Soft
MSX2
FM Towns/FM Towns Marty
Nihon Telenet
Super Famicom
Media Factory
Developer:
Distributor:
Sega Mega Drive
Kanal 10 (SE rental)
Sega Mega Drive
Sega Master System
Sega Game Gear
Tec Toy (BR)
Sega Master System
Korea Oacs (KR)
Sega Master System
Sega Game Gear
Samsung (KR)
Licensor:
PC Engine
MSX2
FM Towns/FM Towns Marty
Super Famicom
Sega Enterprises, Ltd.
Sound driver:
Sega Mega Drive
SMPS Z80
Peripherals supported:
Sega Game Gear
Gear-to-Gear Cable
Genre: Puzzle[4][5][6][7][8], Family[9]

















Number of players: 1-2
Release Date RRP Code
Arcade (System C)
JP		 ¥? ?
Arcade (System C)
US		 $? ?
Arcade (Mega-Tech System)
UK		 £? ?

























Sega Mega Drive
JP 		¥5,5005,500 G-4035
Sega Mega Drive
JP ▼
(Game Toshokan) 		SUBsub
Sega Mega Drive
US 		$29.9529.95[12] 1701
Sega Mega Drive
US
(Classic) 		1701C
Videogame Rating Council: GA
Sega Mega Drive
US
(Classic rerelease) 		1701
ESRB: Kids to Adults
Sega Mega Drive
US
(Classic 2nd rerelease) 		1701
ESRB: Kids to Adults
Sega Mega Drive
US
(Classic cardboard) 		1701
ESRB: Kids to Adults
Sega Mega Drive
EU 		1701
Sega Mega Drive
PT 		MDJ1701
Sega Mega Drive
UK 		£29.9929.99[14][15] 1701
Sega Mega Drive
SE
(Rental)
Sega Mega Drive
CZ
Sega Mega Drive
AU
Sega Mega Drive
CA
Sega Mega Drive
BR
Sega Mega Drive
AS
Sega Master System
US 		5120
Sega Master System
EU 		5120
Sega Master System
PT
Sega Master System
UK 		£24.9924.99[19] 5120
Sega Master System
AU 		5120
Sega Master System
BR
Sega Master System
KR 		GB-1001
Sega Master System
KR
(Samsung) 		GB-1002JG
Sega Game Gear
JP 		¥2,9002,900 G-3101
Sega Game Gear
JP
(Meisaku) 		G-3104
Sega Game Gear
US 		2201
Sega Game Gear
US
(Rerelease) 		2201
ESRB: Kids to Adults
Sega Game Gear
EU 		2201
Sega Game Gear
PT
Sega Game Gear
UK 		£19.9919.99[22][23] 2201
Sega Game Gear
CZ
Sega Game Gear
BR 		012070
Sega Game Gear
KR
Sega Game Gear
SA
MSX
JP 		¥7,2007,200
FM Towns/FM Towns Marty
JP
PC Engine
JP		 ¥¥6,400 TJ03002

{{#ifeq: 0 | 0 |

Super Famicom
JP		 1999-08[24] ¥? ?
Wii Virtual Console
JP ▼ 		600pts600[30]
CERO: A
Wii Virtual Console
US ▼ 		800pts800[28]
ESRB: Everyone
Wii Virtual Console
EU ▼ 		800pts800[25]
PEGI: 3+
Wii Virtual Console
DE ▼ 		800pts800[25]
USK: 0
Wii Virtual Console
AU ▼ 		800pts800[31]
OFLC: General (G)
Steam
US ▼ 		$2.992.99[33] 34285
ESRB: Everyone
Steam
EU ▼ 		€2.492.49[33] 34285
PEGI: 3+
Steam
UK ▼ 		£1.991.99[33] 34285
PEGI: 3+
Steam
AU ▼ 		$3.493.49[33] 34285
OFLC: General (G)
Steam Linux
US ▼ 		$0.990.99[35] 34285
ESRB: Everyone
Steam Linux
EU ▼ 		€0.990.99[35] 34285
PEGI: 3+
Steam Linux
UK ▼ 		£0.790.79[35] 34285
PEGI: 3+
Steam Linux
AU ▼ 		$1.351.35[35] 34285
OFLC: General (G)
Steam OS X
US ▼ 		$0.990.99[35] 34285
ESRB: Everyone
Steam OS X
EU ▼ 		€0.990.99[35] 34285
PEGI: 3+
Steam OS X
UK ▼ 		£0.790.79[35] 34285
PEGI: 3+
Steam OS X
AU ▼ 		$1.351.35[35] 34285
OFLC: General (G)
iOS
JP ▼ 		¥480480[36]
4+
Nintendo 3DS Virtual Console
JP ▼ 		¥286 (300)286 (300)[37]
CERO: A
Nintendo 3DS Virtual Console
US ▼ 		$3.993.99[38]
ESRB: Everyone
Nintendo 3DS Virtual Console
EU ▼ 		€3.993.99[39]
PEGI: 3+
Nintendo 3DS Virtual Console
DE ▼ 		€3.993.99[39]
USK: 0
Nintendo 3DS Virtual Console
UK ▼ 		£3.593.59[39]
PEGI: 3+
Nintendo Switch Online
JP ▼ 		SUBsub
Nintendo Switch Online
US ▼ 		SUBsub
Nintendo Switch Online
EU ▼ 		SUBsub
Nintendo Switch Online
UK ▼ 		SUBsub
Nintendo Switch Online
AU ▼ 		SUBsub

Columns (コラムス) is a puzzle game created by Jay Geertsen in 1989. The rights were sold to Sega in 1990, who brought the game to the Sega System C arcade board, with its subsequent success seeing the game released on a wide variety of platforms.

Columns is frequently seen as Sega's answer to Tetris, though its tile-matching gameplay has more in common with SameGame (1985). In Brazil, it is known as Shapes and Columns because Avon Products already registered a product of the same name in that country. The Super Famicom version was released only for the Nintendo Power service.

Gameplay

Columns is a falling-block puzzle game. Like Tetris, the aim of the game is to try and stay alive - "columns" fall from the top of the screen, landing on-top of each other, and should the "pile" reach the top of the screen, the game is over. Success is determined by strategic placing of columns, and as the game progresses, the rate at which the columns fall increases.

In Columns, each column is made up of three coloured jewels stacked on top of each other. If three or more jewels of the same colour are aligned horizontally, vertically or diagonally, the jewels will be destroyed, and any jewels placed above will fall downwards. Unlike Tetris, the reliance on gravity means gameplay is combo-driven - repeated combos will spawn a "Magic Jewel" (in most versions of the game), which when collided with a normal jewel will eliminate all jewels of that colour on-screen. Games are played on a 6x13 grid, and points are awarded by destroying jewels (players also receive a bonus for starting the game at higher difficulties). In the majority of versions, hints will be displayed for the player up until level 3.

There are six coloured jewels in total:

Columns sprites.png
Columns sprites.png
Columns sprites.png
Columns sprites.png
Columns sprites.png
Columns sprites.png

Many home versions of the game allow for the graphics to be changed, most notably the Sega Master System and Sega Game Gear variants, as well as home computer ports by SystemSoft.

Controls

There are only four buttons utilised in Columns. Left and Right move a falling column left or right across the screen, respectively, while Down speeds up the rate at which the column falls.

The remaining button is used to "rotate" the column as shown below:

Columns sprites.png
Columns sprites.png
Columns sprites.png

→

Columns sprites.png
Columns sprites.png
Columns sprites.png

→

Columns sprites.png
Columns sprites.png
Columns sprites.png

In most ports of this game there is no option to rotate the columns in the opposite direction, but that can be done in the Game Gear version. Columns can only be rotated while they are moving, however a certain amount of leeway (i.e. about a second) is given to columns which have just "landed".

Modes

Game modes differ depending on the version of Columns:

"Arcade"/Original

All versions of the game have an interpretation of the "Arcade" (or "Classic") columns described above - a theoretically endless game in which columns continue to fall until the screen is filled.

Sega Mega Drive has both "Arcade" and "Original" modes separately, each with their own customization options. The Magic Jewel appears only in "arcade" mode.

Time Trial

Initially present as an extra setting for "Original" mode on the Sega Mega Drive version, Time Trial places a three-minute time limit on a play session, so the objective is to score as many points as possible within that time limit.

Flash Columns

Flash Columns, featured in the Sega Mega Drive, Sega Master System and Sega Game Gear versions of the game, has the player mine their way through a set number of lines to get to a flashing jewel at the bottom. The faster the player accomplishes this, the higher their rank will be.

In the Master System port, the theme music to this mode is that previously heard in the System 16 version (and subsequent Sega versions) of Tetris.

2-Player

The standard 2-player mode, found in the arcade version of the game, is largely identical to the Arcade mode above, except two players are supported. It is not a competitive mode, so players can join and leave at will. Some versions remove this mode for logistical reasons, for example, the Sega Game Gear port where the handheld nature of the console renders this mode largely pointless, and the PC Engine version, in which the console only has one control port as standard.

Versus

Offered in most non-arcade versions of the game, Versus has two players compete against each other, the winner being the player who lasts the longest. Unlike other puzzle games of this nature (perhaps most notably, Puyo Puyo), there are no methods of "attacking" an opponent, so gameplay is very similar to the above.

The Sega Mega Drive version doesn't have "Versus" mode, but 2-player "Flash Columns" mode has a "match" setting that does a similar thing.

Doubles

This can be seen as a co-operative two-player mode, in which the Original mode or Flash Columns is played on the same screen with each player taking a turn in placing a column.

Stone

Exclusive to the PC Engine version when playing on a PC Engine GT (TODO)

Freeze

Exclusive to the PC Engine version when playing on a PC Engine GT (TODO)

History

Development

Columns was originally conceived by Jay Geertsen while working at Hewlett-Packard in 1989. It was originally created for the HP-UX operating system (utilising the X Window System), however the relative obscurity of the platform, particularly amongst home consumers, saw ports to other systems. Nathan Meyers brought it to MS-DOS (1989), P.C.M. van der Arend to the Atari ST (1989), Chris Christensen to the Macintosh (1990), and John Rotenstein for Windows 3.x (1990).

In early 1990, Geertsen sold the rights to Sega, who has controlled the license ever since. Sega is not thought to own the code of the aforementioned versions, just the mechanics surrounding the game.

During development and reportedly in its location test form, the arcade game was known as Drops (ドロップス).

Versions

Following its success in arcades, Columns was brought to the Sega Mega Drive, in the form of a very accurate arcade conversion. The Mega Drive Columns was the first puzzle game to hit the system in most territories - though Tetris had seen a Mega Drive release in Japan in 1988, legal issues forced it to be removed from shelves and the game has been rarely mentioned since. Columns is a relatively small game by Mega Drive standards, and so has been re-released multiple times across many compilations. It was also re-released several times between 1993 and 1996 in North America, presumably to try and clear old stock.

Columns was a launch title for the Sega Game Gear, which debuted in Japan in October 1990. It was also brought to the Sega Master System later in the year.

SystemSoft were given the rights to publish Japanese home computer versions of the game between 1991 and 1992, including the PC-8801, PC-9801 UV, X68000 and J-3100 as Columns Taisen Mode Tsuki. MSX2 and FM Towns versions were handled by Telenet Japan, while a PC Engine port was brought to the system by Laser Soft. Perhaps most peculiarly, Media Factory were given the rights to produce a Super Famicom version, released in the very late year of 1999. It was distributed through the Japan-exclusive Nintendo Power rewritable cartridge service and is the only Sega property to see an official release on Nintendo's Super Famicom.

There have been multiple sequels to Columns, starting with 1990's Columns II: The Voyage Through Time and 1993's Columns III: Revenge of Columns. The System C version of the game was released as part of the Sega Saturn compilation, Columns Arcade Collection. The Mega Drive version has also been released on Steam, on the Wii's Virtual Console service, and as part of all regional variants of the Mega Drive Mini, while the Game Gear version has been released as part of the Nintendo 3DS' Virtual Console service as well as the red model Game Gear Micro. Multiple unlicensed versions of the game exist, as well as many clones.

Throughout its life, Columns has never achieved the same level of success as Tetris; however, the series continues to see sequels to this day.

Comparisons

Main article: Columns/Comparisons.

Version history

Main article: Columns/Changelog.
System Version Size Date Comment Ref Icon
iOS
 0000010000000000010000000000001.0.1 6MB 201306172013-06-17 [48]
iOS
 0000010000000000000000000000001.0.0 5.4MB 201104052011-04-05 [49]

Production credits

Main article: Columns/Production credits.

Digital manuals

  • Steam manual

  • Mega Drive Mini US manual

  • Mega Drive Mini EU manual

  • Mega Drive Mini JP manual

Magazine articles

Main article: Columns/Magazine articles.

Promotional material

Main article: Columns/Promotional material.

Physical scans

System C version

Sega Retro Average 
Publication Score Source
{{{{{icon}}}|L}} Division by zero.
Based on
0 review
Sega Retro Average 
Publication Version Score
Computer & Video Games (UK)
87
[50]
Arcade (System C)
 87
Based on
1 review

Columns

System C, JP
Notavailable.svgColumns instructions.jpg
Instuction card(s)

Mega-Tech version

Mega-Tech,
Columns MT cover.jpg
Cover
Columns MegaTech Cart Back.jpgColumns MegaTech Cart.jpg
Cart

Mega Drive version

Sega Retro Average 
Publication Score Source
{{{{{icon}}}|L}} Division by zero.
Based on
0 review
Sega Retro Average 
Publication Version Score
Ação Games (BR)
75
[51]
Aktueller Software Markt (DE)
83
[52]
Beep! MegaDrive (JP) NTSC-J
83
[53]
Complete Guide to Consoles (UK)
90
[54]
Complete Guide to Consoles (UK)
88
[55]
The Complete Guide to Sega (UK)
88
[56]
Console XS (UK) PAL
84
[57]
Electronic Gaming Monthly (US) NTSC-U
63
[10]
Mean Machines: The Essential Sega Guide (UK)
77
[58]
Famitsu (JP) NTSC-J
68
[59]
The Games Machine (IT)
88
[60]
Joystick (FR)
70
[61]
Sega Mega Drive Advanced Gaming (UK) PAL
79
[62]
Mega Drive Fan (JP) NTSC-J
77
[63]
Mega Play (US) NTSC-U
68
[64]
MegaTech (UK) PAL
85
[65]
Mean Machines Sega (UK)
88
[66]
Player One (FR)
74
[67]
Power Play (DE)
77
[68]
Sega Power (UK)
82
[15]
Sega Power (UK) PAL
75
[69]
Sega Pro (UK)
90
[70]
Sega Pro (UK) PAL
84
[71]
Sega Saturn Magazine (JP) NTSC-J
76
[72]
Tilt (FR)
85
[73]
Top Secret (PL) Mega Games I
75
[74]
Tricks 16 bit (RU)
80
[75]
User (GR)
97
[76]
VideoGames & Computer Entertainment (US) NTSC-U
70
[12]
Sega Mega Drive
 80
Based on
29 reviews

Columns

Mega Drive, JP
Columns md jp cover.jpg
Cover
Columns MD JP CartTop.jpg
Columns MD JP Cart.jpg
Cart
Columns MD jp manual.pdf
Manual
Columns MD JP pcb.jpg
PCB
Mega Drive, US (Made In Japan)
Columns md us cover.jpg
Cover
Columns md us cart.jpg
Cart
Columns md us manual.pdf
Manual
Mega Drive, US (Made In China Cart)

Columns MD US MadeInChina Cart.jpg
Cart
Columns MD US Colour Manual ALT.jpg
Manual
Mega Drive, US (Made In Thailand Cart)

Columns MD US MadeInThailand Cart.jpg
Cart
Columns MD US 3701-945-0-01 Manual.jpg
Manual
Mega Drive, US (Not For Resale Cart)

Columns md us Not For Resale cart.jpg
Cart
Mega Drive, US (Not For Resale ALT Cart)

Columns MD US NotForResaleStrip Cart.jpg
Cart
Mega Drive, US (Sega Classic, VRC, 1993)
Columns MD US Box Classic VRC.jpg
Cover
Columns md us cart.jpg
Cart
Columns md us manual.pdf
Manual
Mega Drive, US
(Sega Classic, ESRB, 1995)
Columns MD US Classics KA Box Back.jpgNospine.pngColumns MD US Classic KARating 1995 Cover.jpg
Cover
Columns MD USAssembedInUSA Cart.jpg
Cart
Columns MD US Black&White Manual.jpg
Manual
Mega Drive, US
(Sega Classic, ESRB, 1996)
Columns MD US Box SegaClassic.jpg
Cover
Columns MD USAssembedInUSA Cart.jpg
Cart
Columns MD US PrintedInUSA Colour Manual.jpg
Manual
Mega Drive, US
(Sega Classic, ESRB, Cardboard)
Columns MD US Classics Cardboard Box Back.jpgNospine.pngColumns MD US cardboard Box.jpg
Cover
Columns MD US AssembedInUSA Cart Yellow Sticker.jpg
Cart
Mega Drive, EU
Columns md eu cover.jpg
Cover
Columns MD EU Cart.jpg
Cart
Columns MD EU Manual.pdf
Manual
Columns MD EU pcb.jpg
PCB
Mega Drive, PT (Colour Manual)

Columns Manual Ecofilmes Portugal.pdf
Columns Portuguese manual (Page by Page Scan)
Columns PT Ecofilmes Manual Print Version.pdf
Columns Portuguese manual (Print)
Mega Drive, PT (Blue Manual)

Columns MD PT Blue Manual.jpg
Manual
Mega Drive, CZ (Datart)

Columns MD EU Cart.jpg
Cart
Columns md cz manual.jpg
Manual
Mega Drive, CZ/SK (DDC Agency)
Columns md eu cover.jpg
Cover
Columns MD SMS GG CZ Manual DDC.png
Manual
Mega Drive, SE (rental; Kanal 10)
Columns MD SE rental cover.jpg
Cover
Mega Drive, FI

Mega Drive, AU (Vertical Manual)
Columns MD AU Vertical Manual Box Back.jpgNospine.pngColumns MD AU Vertical Manual Cover.jpg
Cover
Columns MD AU Cart Top.jpg
Columns MD AU Cart Back.jpgColumns MD AU Cart.jpg
Cart
Columns MD AU Vertical Manual.jpg
Manual
Mega Drive, AU (Horizontal Manual)
Columns MD AU Horizontal Manual Box Back.pngNospine.pngColumns MD AU Horizontal Manual Cover.png
Cover
Columns MD AU Cart Back OziSoft.jpgColumns MD AU Cart OziSoft.jpg
Cart
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Manual
Mega Drive, AU (Sega Classics)
Columns MD AU Sega Classics Box Back.jpgNospine.pngColumns MD AU Sega Classics Cover.jpg
Cover
Columns MD AU Cart Back OziSoft.jpgColumns MD AU Cart OziSoft.jpg
Cart
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Manual
Mega Drive, AU (Pack In - BONUS)
Columns MD AU Cover.jpg
Cover
Columns MD AU Cart Top.jpg
Columns MD AU Cart Back.jpgColumns MD AU Cart.jpg
Cart
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Manual
Mega Drive, AU (Pack In - BONUS Sticker)
Columns MD AU Bonus Sticker Cover.jpg
Cover
Columns MD AU Cart Top.jpg
Columns MD AU Cart Back.jpgColumns MD AU Cart.jpg
Cart
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Manual
Mega Drive, AU (Pack In - SP01)
Columns MD AU SP01 Cover.jpg
Cover
Columns MD AU Cart Top.jpg
Columns MD AU Cart Back.jpgColumns MD AU Cart.jpg
Cart
Error creating thumbnail: convert: pixel cache allocation failed `/tmp/magick-LAK7Z4PUFlyv5rnwwFfCO9ULjkeUWbv6[0]' @ error/cache.c/AcquireCacheNexusPixels/5133. convert: Insufficient memory (case 4) `/home/sonicret/domains/segaretro.org/public_html/images/temp/transform_56fd0e47b612.jpg' @ error/jpeg.c/JPEGErrorHandler/338.
Manual
Mega Drive, AU (Pack In - SP1 Sticker)
Columns MD AU SP1 Sticker Box Back.jpgNospine.pngColumns MD AU SP1 Sticker Cover.jpg
Cover
Columns MD AU Cart Top.jpg
Columns MD AU Cart Back.jpgColumns MD AU Cart.jpg
Cart
Error creating thumbnail: convert: pixel cache allocation failed `/tmp/magick-1WGef37LCNKe3TeAIGRGlXhczQVW5ybB[0]' @ error/cache.c/AcquireCacheNexusPixels/5133. convert: Insufficient memory (case 4) `/home/sonicret/domains/segaretro.org/public_html/images/temp/transform_8204408b1255.jpg' @ error/jpeg.c/JPEGErrorHandler/338.
Manual
Mega Drive, BR (Cardboard)
Columns MD BR Box.jpg
Cover
Columns MD BR Cart.jpg
Cart
Mega Drive, CA
Columns MD CA Box.jpg
Cover
Mega Drive, Asia

Columns MD AS Cart.jpg
Cart

Master System version

Sega Retro Average 
Publication Score Source
{{{{{icon}}}|L}} Division by zero.
Based on
0 review
Sega Retro Average 
Publication Version Score
Buzz! Computers (UK)
85
[77]
Complete Guide to Consoles (UK)
89
[78]
Complete Guide to Consoles (UK)
88
[79]
The Complete Guide to Sega (UK) PAL
90
[80]
Console XS (UK) PAL
91
[81]
Computer & Video Games (UK)
84
[82]
Electronic Gaming Monthly (US) NTSC-U
55
[17]
Mean Machines: The Essential Sega Guide (UK)
89
[83]
Game Mania (UK)
90
[84]
GamePro (US) NTSC-U
72
[85]
Gamers (DE)
67
[86]
Joystick (FR)
90
[87]
Mean Machines (UK)
89
[88]
Mean Machines Sega (UK)
90
[89]
Player One (FR)
85
[90]
Power Play (DE)
63
[91]
Raze (UK)
90
[92]
Sega Power (UK)
93
[93]
Sega Power (UK) PAL
75
[94]
Sega Pro (UK)
92
[70]
Sega Pro (UK) PAL
91
[95]
Tilt (FR)
85
[96]
Tilt (FR)
85
[73]
Zzap! (IT)
90
[97]
Sega Master System
 84
Based on
24 reviews

Columns

Master System, US
Columns sms us cover.jpg
Cover
Columns sms us cart.jpg
Cart
Columns sms us manual.pdf
Manual
Master System, EU
Columns sms eu cover.jpg
Cover
Columns SMS EU Manual.pdf
Manual
Master System, PT

Master System, CZ (Datart)

Notavailable.svg
Manual
Master System, CZ/SK (DDC Agency)
Columns sms eu cover.jpg
Cover
Columns MD SMS GG CZ Manual DDC.png
Manual
Master System, AU
Columns SMS AU cover.jpg
Cover
Columns SMS AU Cart Top.jpg
Columns SMS AU Cart Back.jpgColumns SMS AU Cart.jpg
Cart
Master System, AU (Wide sticker)
Columns SMS AU widesticker cover.jpg
Cover
Columns SMS AU Cart Top.jpg
Columns SMS AU Cart Back.jpgColumns SMS AU Cart.jpg
Cart
Master System, AU (NIAL sticker)
Columns SMS AU nial cover.jpg
Cover
Columns SMS AU Cart Top.jpg
Columns SMS AU Cart Back.jpgColumns SMS AU Cart.jpg
Cart
Master System, BR
Columns SMS BR backcover.jpgNospine.pngColumns SMS BR cover.jpg
Cover
ShapesandColumns SMS BR Cart.jpg
Cart
Columns SMS BR Manual.pdf
Manual
Master System, KR (Korea Oacs)
Columns SMS KR Box.jpg
Cover
Columns SMS KR OACS cart.jpg
Cart
Master System, KR (Samsung)
Columns SMS KR Box Back Samsung.jpgColumns SMS KR Box Spine Samsung.jpgColumns SMS KR Alt cover.jpg
Cover
Columns SMS KR carttop Samsung.jpg
Columns SMS KR Cart Samsung.jpg
Cart

Game Gear version

Sega Retro Average 
Publication Score Source
{{{{{icon}}}|L}} Division by zero.
Based on
0 review
Sega Retro Average 
Publication Version Score
ACE (UK)
68
[22]
Beep! MegaDrive (JP) NTSC-J
70
[98]
Console XS (UK) PAL
92
[99]
Mean Machines: The Essential Sega Guide (UK)
85
[100]
Game Mania (UK)
86
[101]
Hippon Super (JP) NTSC-J
60
[102]
Mean Machines Sega (UK) PAL
88
[103]
Sega Power (UK) PAL
75
[104]
Sega Power (UK) PAL
91
[105]
Sega Pro (UK)
80
[70]
Sega Pro (UK) PAL
92
[106]
Sega Saturn Magazine (JP) NTSC-J
66
[107]
Zero (UK)
93
[108]
Sega Game Gear
 80
Based on
13 reviews

Columns

Game Gear, JP
Columns GG JP Box Back.jpgNospine-small.pngColumns gg jp cover.jpg
Cover
Columns gg jp cart.jpg
Cart
Columns GG JP Manual.pdf
Manual
Game Gear, JP (01)
Columns GG JP Box Back 01.jpgNospine-small.pngColumns gg jp cover.jpg
Cover
Columns gg jp cart.jpg
Cart
Columns GG JP Manual.pdf
Manual
Game Gear, JP (Meisaku Collection)
Columns GG JP Box Back Meisaku.jpgNospine-small.pngColumns GG JP Box Front Meisaku.jpg
Cover
Columns GG JP Box Cart Back Meisaku.jpgColumns GG JP Box Cart Meisaku.jpg
Cart
Game Gear, US
Columns GG US backcover.jpgNospine.pngColumns gg us cover.jpg
Cover
Columns gg eu cart.jpg
Cart
Columns gg us manual.pdf
Manual
Game Gear, US (rerelease)
Columns GG US Box Back ESRB.jpgNospine.pngColumns GG US Box Front ESRB.jpg
Cover
Columns gg us cart.jpg
Cart
Game Gear, EU
Columns GG EU Box Back.jpgColumns GG EU Box Spine.jpgColumns gg eu cover.jpg
Cover
Columns gg eu cart.jpg
Cart
Columns GG EU Manual.pdf
Manual
Game Gear, UK
Columns GG UK Box Back.jpgNospine.pngColumns GG UK Cover.jpg
Cover
Columns gg eu cart.jpg
Cart
Game Gear, PT

Columns gg eu cart.jpg
Cart
Columns GG PT Manual.jpg
Manual
Game Gear, CZ (Datart)

Notavailable.svg
Manual
Game Gear, CZ/SK (DDC Agency)
Columns gg eu cover.jpg
Cover
Columns MD SMS GG CZ Manual DDC.png
Manual
Game Gear, BR
Columns GG BR Box.jpg
Cover
Columns GG BR cart.jpg
Cart
Columns gg br manual.pdf
Manual
Game Gear, KR
Columns GG KR Box Front.jpg
Cover
Columns GG KR Cart.jpg
Cart
Game Gear, GCC
Columns GG GCC box front.jpg
Cover
Columns gg eu cart.jpg
Cart

FM Towns version

FM Towns, JP
Columns FMTowns JP Box.jpg
Cover
Columns FMTowns JP Disk Back.jpgColumns FMTowns JP Disk.jpg
Disk

MSX2 version

MSX2, JP
Columns MSX JP Box Front.jpg
Cover

PC Engine version

Sega Retro Average 
Publication Score Source
{{{{{icon}}}|L}} Division by zero.
Based on
0 review
Sega Retro Average 
Publication Version Score
Aktueller Software Markt (DE)
71
[109]
Joystick (FR)
82
[110]
Player One (FR)
72
[111]
PC Engine
 75
Based on
3 reviews

Columns

PC Engine, JP
Columns PCE HuCard JP back.jpgColumns PCE HuCard JP Spine.jpgColumns PCE JP Box Front.jpg
Cover
Columns PCE HuCard JP Card Back.jpgColumns PCE JP Card.jpg
Card

Technical information

Main article: Columns/Technical information.

External links

References

Necretro-round.svg
NEC Retro has more information related to Columns
  1. ↑ @tsurumy on Twitter (Wayback Machine: 2020-09-04 15:45)
  2. ↑ https://www.mtwo.co.jp/development/retrogame-2/#tab-1
  3. ↑ https://www.mtwo.co.jp/development/retrogame-2/#tab-4
  4. ↑ File:Columns GG EU Box Back.jpg
  5. ↑ File:Columns gg jp cover.jpg
  6. ↑ 6.0 6.1 https://sega.jp/history/hard/gamegear/software.html (Wayback Machine: 2018-12-07 04:57)
  7. ↑ File:Columns md jp cover.jpg
  8. ↑ 8.0 8.1 https://sega.jp/history/hard/megadrive/software.html (Wayback Machine: 2020-07-20 09:51)
  9. ↑ File:Columns sms eu cover.jpg
  10. ↑ 10.0 10.1 Electronic Gaming Monthly, "November 1990" (US; 1990-xx-xx), page 20
  11. ↑ https://groups.google.com/g/rec.games.video/c/4w8GA844HqY/m/JbNAqmxkE8EJ
  12. ↑ 12.0 12.1 VideoGames & Computer Entertainment, "November 1990" (US; 1990-1x-xx), page 66
  13. ↑ File:LiverpoolEcho UK 1990-12-31 18.jpg
  14. ↑ Raze, "September 1991" (UK; 1991-07-25), page 76
  15. ↑ 15.0 15.1 Sega Power, "July 1991" (UK; 1991-06-06), page 12
  16. ↑ Supergame, "Novembro 1991" (BR; 1999-11-xx), page 38
  17. ↑ 17.0 17.1 Electronic Gaming Monthly, "September 1990" (US; 1990-xx-xx), page 16
  18. ↑ 18.0 18.1 ACE, "January 1991" (UK; 1990-12-xx), page 165
  19. ↑ Sega Power, "December 1990" (UK; 1990-11-01), page 2
  20. ↑ 20.0 20.1 File:DailyMirror_UK_1991-06-29_08.png
  21. ↑ 21.0 21.1 Sega Power, "July 1991" (UK; 1991-06-06), page 20
  22. ↑ 22.0 22.1 ACE, "September 1991" (UK; 1991-08-08), page 74
  23. ↑ Raze, "September 1991" (UK; 1991-07-25), page 16
  24. ↑ 24.0 24.1 24.2 http://pda.sega.co.jp/SEGA-PDA/jp/GAME/columns-nen.html (Wayback Machine: 2003-04-16 18:44)
  25. ↑ 25.0 25.1 25.2 25.3 http://www.nintendolife.com/games/megadrive/columns (Wayback Machine: 2017-06-13 22:35)
  26. ↑ https://www.nintendo.co.uk/Games/Virtual-Console-Wii-/Columns--276720.html (archive.today)
  27. ↑ https://www.nintendo.de/Spiele/Virtual-Console-Wii-/Columns--276720.html (archive.today)
  28. ↑ 28.0 28.1 http://www.nintendo.com/games/detail/KyUint2qfhtb85YzVVD6MDsCs1kDy_dR (Wayback Machine: 2010-11-22 23:52)
  29. ↑ https://www.nintendo.co.jp/wii/vc/software/01.html (Wayback Machine: 2017-11-23 05:03)
  30. ↑ http://vc.sega.jp:80/vc_columns/ (Wayback Machine: 2007-02-09 19:25)
  31. ↑ http://www.nintendo.com.au/index.php?action=catalogue&prodcat_id=41&prod_id=19731&pageID=4 (Wayback Machine: 2012-04-03 03:08)
  32. ↑ 32.0 32.1 32.2 32.3 https://steamdb.info/app/34285/ (Wayback Machine: 2016-08-03 21:51)
  33. ↑ 33.0 33.1 33.2 33.3 http://steamdb.info/app/34285/ (Wayback Machine: 2013-05-22 19:26)
  34. ↑ 34.0 34.1 34.2 34.3 34.4 34.5 34.6 34.7 https://steamdb.info/app/34285/history/?changeid=5755301
  35. ↑ 35.0 35.1 35.2 35.3 35.4 35.5 35.6 35.7 http://steamdb.info/app/34285/ (Wayback Machine: 2019-09-06 22:28)
  36. ↑ 36.0 36.1 http://sega.jp/search/result.php?page=3&pf=32 (Wayback Machine: 2017-03-03 22:13)
  37. ↑ 37.0 37.1 http://vc.sega.jp:80/3ds/columns/ (Wayback Machine: 2012-08-06 18:03)
  38. ↑ 38.0 38.1 http://www.nintendo.com:80/games/detail/9DTgJWQ-6c28tSj5gfRQXEkiCMYWy0U1 (Wayback Machine: 2013-06-19 02:19)
  39. ↑ 39.0 39.1 39.2 39.3 39.4 39.5 http://www.nintendolife.com/games/gamegear/columns (Wayback Machine: 2017-06-14 01:03)
  40. ↑ https://www.nintendo.fr/Jeux/SEGA-Game-Gear/Columns--764938.html (archive.today)
  41. ↑ https://www.nintendo.co.uk/Games/SEGA-Game-Gear/Columns--764938.html (archive.today)
  42. ↑ https://www.nintendo.de/Spiele/SEGA-Game-Gear/Columns--764938.html (archive.today)
  43. ↑ https://topics.nintendo.co.jp/article/3bcd70c4-2bef-4cf3-bffb-c656bf9f055a (archive.today)
  44. ↑ @NintendoAmerica on Twitter (archive.today)
  45. ↑ @NintendoEurope on Twitter (archive.today)
  46. ↑ @NintendoUK on Twitter (archive.today)
  47. ↑ @NintendoAUNZ on Twitter (archive.today)
  48. ↑ https://itunes.apple.com/jp/app/id420877558?mt=8 (Wayback Machine: 2017-04-01 18:10)
  49. ↑ http://itunes.apple.com/jp/app/id420877558?mt=8 (Wayback Machine: 2011-05-10 23:51)
  50. ↑ Computer & Video Games, "October 1990" (UK; 1990-09-16), page 101
  51. ↑ Ação Games, "Junho 1991" (BR; 1991-06-19), page 27
  52. ↑ Aktueller Software Markt, "November 1990" (DE; 1990-10-26), page 138
  53. ↑ Beep! MegaDrive, "July 1990" (JP; 1990-06-08), page 17
  54. ↑ Complete Guide to Consoles, "Volume III" (UK; 1990-08-xx), page 46
  55. ↑ Complete Guide to Consoles, "Volume IV" (UK; 1990-11-xx), page 28
  56. ↑ The Complete Guide to Sega, "" (UK; 1991-05-xx), page 45
  57. ↑ Console XS, "June/July 1992" (UK; 1992-04-23), page 128
  58. ↑ Mean Machines: The Essential Sega Guide, "" (UK; 1993-11-18), page 32
  59. ↑ Famitsu, "" (JP; 1990-0x-xx), page 1
  60. ↑ The Games Machine, "Novembre 1990" (IT; 1990-1x-xx), page 83
  61. ↑ Joystick, "Octobre 1990" (FR; 1990-xx-xx), page 113
  62. ↑ Sega Mega Drive Advanced Gaming, "January 1993" (UK; 199x-xx-xx), page 91
  63. ↑ Mega Drive Fan, "October 1990" (JP; 1990-09-08), page 79
  64. ↑ Mega Play, "February 1991" (US; 199x-xx-xx), page 41
  65. ↑ MegaTech, "Xmas 1991" (UK; 1991-12-06), page 33
  66. ↑ Mean Machines Sega, "October 1992" (UK; 1992-09-xx), page 138
  67. ↑ Player One, "Février 1991" (FR; 1991-xx-xx), page 42
  68. ↑ Power Play, "9/90" (DE; 1990-08-17), page 122
  69. ↑ Sega Power, "October 1991" (UK; 1991-09-05), page 53
  70. ↑ 70.0 70.1 70.2 Sega Pro, "December 1991" (UK; 1991-11-21), page 21
  71. ↑ Sega Pro, "April 1993" (UK; 1993-03-11), page 64
  72. ↑ Sega Saturn Magazine, "September 1995" (JP; 1995-08-08), page 85
  73. ↑ 73.0 73.1 Tilt, "Décembre 1991" (FR; 1991-1x-xx), page 71
  74. ↑ Top Secret, "Kwiecień 1995" (PL; 1995-xx-xx), page 57
  75. ↑ Tricks 16 bit, "Tricks Sega Gold 800 igr" (RU; 1998-03-20), page 10
  76. ↑ User, "Mártios 1991" (GR; 1991-0x-xx), page 66
  77. ↑ Buzz! Computers (UK) (+0:00)
  78. ↑ Complete Guide to Consoles, "Volume III" (UK; 1990-08-xx), page 35
  79. ↑ Complete Guide to Consoles, "Volume IV" (UK; 1990-11-xx), page 94
  80. ↑ The Complete Guide to Sega, "" (UK; 1991-05-xx), page 55
  81. ↑ Console XS, "June/July 1992" (UK; 1992-04-23), page 139
  82. ↑ Computer & Video Games, "January 1991" (UK; 1990-12-15), page 133
  83. ↑ Mean Machines: The Essential Sega Guide, "" (UK; 1993-11-18), page 131
  84. ↑ Game Mania, "May 1993" (UK; 1993-xx-xx), page 81
  85. ↑ GamePro, "December 1990" (US; 1990-xx-xx), page 138
  86. ↑ Gamers, "Dezember/Januar 1993" (DE; 1992-11-19), page 104
  87. ↑ Joystick, "Janvier 1991" (FR; 199x-xx-xx), page 116
  88. ↑ Mean Machines, "November 1990" (UK; 1990-10-29), page 78
  89. ↑ Mean Machines Sega, "October 1992" (UK; 1992-09-xx), page 133
  90. ↑ Player One, "Janvier 1991" (FR; 199x-xx-xx), page 50
  91. ↑ Power Play, "12/90" (DE; 1990-11-16), page 165
  92. ↑ Raze, "February 1991" (UK; 1990-12-20), page 32
  93. ↑ Sega Power, "December 1990" (UK; 1990-11-01), page 34
  94. ↑ Sega Power, "October 1991" (UK; 1991-09-05), page 56
  95. ↑ Sega Pro, "April 1993" (UK; 1993-03-11), page 70
  96. ↑ Tilt, "Février 1991" (FR; 1991-0x-xx), page 72
  97. ↑ Zzap!, "Febbraio 1991" (IT; 1991-xx-xx), page 22
  98. ↑ Beep! MegaDrive, "February 1991" (JP; 1991-01-08), page 84
  99. ↑ Console XS, "June/July 1992" (UK; 1992-04-23), page 147
  100. ↑ Mean Machines: The Essential Sega Guide, "" (UK; 1993-11-18), page 165
  101. ↑ Game Mania, "May 1993" (UK; 1993-xx-xx), page 70
  102. ↑ Hippon Super, "February 1991" (JP; 1991-01-07), page 42
  103. ↑ Mean Machines Sega, "October 1992" (UK; 1992-09-xx), page 143
  104. ↑ Sega Power, "October 1991" (UK; 1991-09-05), page 61
  105. ↑ Sega Power, "November 1991" (UK; 1991-10-04), page 38
  106. ↑ Sega Pro, "April 1993" (UK; 1993-03-11), page 74
  107. ↑ Sega Saturn Magazine, "September 1995" (JP; 1995-08-08), page 88
  108. ↑ Zero, "May 1991" (UK; 1991-0x-xx), page 91
  109. ↑ Aktueller Software Markt, "August/September 1991" (DE; 1991-07-26), page 126
  110. ↑ Joystick, "Mai 1991" (FR; 1991-0x-xx), page 166
  111. ↑ Player One, "Septembre 1991" (FR; 1991-xx-xx), page 68


Columns

Columns SystemC2Title.png

Main page | Comparisons | Changelog | Credits | Bugs | Magazine articles | Video coverage | Reception | Promotional material | Region coding | Technical information | Bootlegs


Music: Columns・Columns II (1991)
Sega Master System
Prototypes: Prototype



Games in the Columns Series
Columns (1990) | Columns II: The Voyage Through Time (1990) | Columns III: Revenge of Columns (1993) | Stack Columns (1994) | Super Columns (1995) | Columns '97 (1996) | Hanagumi Taisen Columns (1997) | Columns Arcade Collection (1997) | Columns GB: Tezuka Osamu Characters (1999) | Hanagumi Taisen Columns 2 (2000) | Columns Crown (2001) | Columns Jewel (2005) | Columns Deluxe (2008) | Jewelpet Kira Kira Mahou no Housekibako (2009) | Sega Ages Columns II (2019)
Columns Taisen Mode Tsuki (1991) | Columns (Mame Game) (1997) | Columns (Pocket Boy) (1997) | Columns for Zaurus (2001) | Columns for Clié (2002)
Unlicensed Columns games
Sega Master System
 Super Columns (1990)
Columns Related Media
Music
 Columns・Columns II (1991)
Book
 Hanagumi Taisen Columns Official Guide (1997) | Hanagumi Taisen Columns 2 Perfect Guide (2000)
Retrieved from "https://segaretro.org/index.php?title=Columns&oldid=1031416"