Hanagumi Taisen Columns

About

Hanagumi Taisen Columns is a puzzle game built around the Sakura Taisen universe. Players arrange falling tiles to form matching trios, clearing lines and advancing through stages. The mechanics follow the Columns formula with a few minor tweaks, focusing on quick thinking and pattern recognition. It runs on the Sega Saturn and arcade systems from 1997. The single player campaign ties into the broader Sakura Taisen narrative, though it stands apart as a lighter, more accessible entry in the series. The game’s appeal lies in its connection to the beloved Sakura Taisen characters and setting. While the puzzle elements are straightforward, longtime fans appreciate the familiar faces and themes presented in a simpler format. It’s a short but polished experience that feels distinct from the main series, offering a break from the usual visual novel style. The Sega Saturn version remains the most widely played outside Japan.