The Best Match 3 Puzzle Games

by
Andrew Webster
Writer
Andrew Webster is the Games Editor of The Verge. He has 10+ years' experience writing about casual video gaming for publications like Wired, CNBC, and Gamezebo.
our editorial process
Andrew Webster
Updated on December 10, 2018

If you're into casual puzzle games, chances are you've come across one or two match-3 games throughout your journey. Or maybe a few dozen. The fact is, the sheer number of match-3 titles available makes it hard to separate the good from the bad. But we're here to help. What follows is a list of some of the best that the genre has to offer, from fresh and inventive games to ones that simply take a good thing and make it better. If you're looking to waste a whole lot of time, these games will be more than happy to help.

01
of 05

Fishdom 2

Fishdom 2 Screenshot

Big Fish Games
What We Like

  • Free.

  • Part of a three-part game installment.

What We Don't Like

  • Unclear how reputable the developer is based on download page.

  • Windows only.

With all of the match-3 puzzle games out there, it can be hard to make a game stand out from the pack. Developer Playrix managed to do this with the first Fishdom, with a cleverly implemented aquatic theme that let players decorate their own virtual aquarium. Fishdom 2 offers more of the same, and while it may not be all that original, it's still one of the best match-3 games around.

Platform: Windows

02
of 05

Vizati

Vizati
Vizati
What We Like

  • Different approach to gameplay.

  • Above-average graphics.

What We Don't Like

  • Last updated in 2011.

  • More expensive than similar games.

Match-3 games are, essentially, all the same. You can wrap it up like an RPG as in Puzzle Quest or throw in a virtual fish tank like in Fishdom, but the core gameplay is still the same. Vizati changes this notion. With a new game mechanic that has you moving the grid instead of the pieces, it feels like a fresh take on the concept. It may be a bit on the difficult side, but it sports a terrific atmosphere and fresh new gameplay, so it's perfect for puzzle fans.

Platform: Windows, Mac

03
of 05

Tidalis

Tidalis

Arcen Games
What We Like

  • Multi-platform availability.

What We Don't Like

  • Requires a CD key that's not sold through Steam.

  • Unclear developer reputation.

At this point you'd be forgiven for thinking that you've seen all that the match-3 genre has to offer. From Bejeweled to Turba to Puzzle Quest, it's arguably the most crowded genre in all puzzle gaming. Yet, in spite of this, Arcen Games' Tidalis manages to offer up a fresh twist on the concept, creating an addictive experience that's equal parts challenging and relaxing. And it even has a story.

Platform: Windows, Mac, Linux, Steam

04
of 05

Bejewled Stars

Bejeweled Stars

PopCap Games 
What We Like

  • Part of a well-known, popular franchise.

  • Optimized for mobile gaming.

What We Don't Like

  • Deep Facebook integration.

  • Gaudy colors.

With the success of the Facebook version of Bejeweled Blitz, PopCap Games doubled down with Bejeweled Stars. The game is similar to previous titles in the series; it's a popular mobile app for iOS and Android, as well.

Platform: Android, iOS, Facebook

05
of 05

Wizard Jewels

What We Like

  • Free.

  • Web-based, so any operating system supports it.

What We Don't Like

  • Not well-rated.

  • Unclear developer.

  • Requires plug-ins that can compromise computer security.

The Wizard Jewels game from Match3Games runs in your web browser, so the platform doesn't matter — although it'll look better in a larger desktop display than in a mobile browser.

The game is fun, with lovely graphics, although it doesn't like it if you happen to run an adblocker when you try to play.

Platform: Web