A Game of Concentration

About

This is a memory-based puzzle game where players flip numbered panels to uncover hidden images. You choose between a 4x4 or 5x6 grid and input numbers to reveal two panels at a time. Matching pairs earn points and an extra turn, while mismatches add to your error count. Single-player modes challenge you to clear the board with minimal mistakes, and two-player modes let you take turns competing. The difficulty switch adjusts scoring, and wild cards can be added to mix up matches in certain variations. The game offers eight distinct modes split between grid sizes, four of which include wild cards for added unpredictability. Released in 1978 for the Atari 2600, it’s a stripped-down but functional take on matching games that rewards quick recall. While the visuals are limited by 8-bit constraints, the simplicity of number-based panel selection keeps it accessible for quick play sessions.

Storyline

The game is played using a matrix of numbered panels, either 4 x 4 (for 16 panels) or 5 x 6 (for 30 panels). Using the keypad, players enter the number of the panels they wish to reveal. If the images behind the two panels match, the panels are removed and the player scores 1 or 2 points, depending on what difficulty the switch is set to, along with an extra turn. The game has a total of eight variations, four each for each matrix size and four have wild cards. Each matrix can be played by either a single player or by two players taking turns; in single-player games, the player attempts to clear the matrix with as few incorrect matches as possible. Also, players can enable wild cards that will match any image on the board.