Master Any Match-3 Game: Tips for Becoming a Puzzle Pro

If you're a fan of match-3 puzzle games like Candy Crush and Homescapes, you know that good things come in threes, but even better things come in fours and fives. By following these universal puzzle pointers, you can improve your skills and become a master at any match-3 game.

Make it rain: Strategies for creating combos

In nearly every match-3 game, combos are crucial for success. Creating a combo is often accidental, but there's a way to increase your chances. Match pieces toward the bottom of the board so that the pieces above cascade into cool combos. Thinking ahead is key!

Eyes on the prize: Focusing on level objectives

Racking up combos doesn't guarantee victory because many match-3 levels have specific objectives. If you need to clear a certain number of blue candies, make sure not to get distracted by other colors unless they indirectly help you achieve your goal.

Pause your power-ups: Timing is everything

If you have powerful special pieces like rockets or color bombs, consider saving them until you really need them or can combine them with other power-ups. For example, in Homescapes, combining the paper plane and bomb specials creates a flying explosive that can obliterate hard-to-reach spots on the board.

Slow your roll: Take your time

Unless you're playing a time-based match-3 puzzler like Legendary: Game of Heroes, there's no penalty for being deliberate. Take the time to carefully scrutinize the board before making a move. Remember, many games will suggest a move after a short delay, but it may not always be the best move.

Finish strong: Beat levels with extra moves

Most match-3 games challenge you to beat a level within a certain number of moves. Aim to come in well under that target. In games like Disney Frozen Adventures, leftover moves are transformed into special pieces that scatter across the board, significantly increasing your score.