Merge Blocks

Merge Blocks crosses two puzzle rules. The developer describes it as 2048 combined with match-3: matching blocks combine into a higher form, but it takes three of them rather than two. You take blocks from a panel at the bottom of the screen and place them on a 5x5 board. When three or more identical blocks sit next to each other, they merge, and merges can set off chain reactions that build combos.

A block can evolve through 8 levels. Scoring depends on the level of the blocks involved and on combos. Three power-ups are available: Undo, Bomb and 2x Score. You can switch between three themes, Light, Dark and Zen, and the music is procedurally generated, which the developer pitches as relaxing. Progress can be saved to the cloud, and the developer says the game also plays offline.

Drag a block from the panel at the bottom and drop it onto the 5x5 board, using the mouse or a finger. When three or more identical blocks are next to each other, they merge into a higher-level block. Plan placements so merges set off chain reactions. Click a power-up button to use Undo, Bomb or 2x Score.

Score depends on both block level and combos, so a placement that sets off a chain is worth more than a lone merge. A 5x5 board leaves little room, and Undo is the power-up for a placement you regret. The panel at the bottom shows what you have to place, so check it before committing a block.

A merge-three puzzle on a 5x5 board, in a landscape frame. Blocks evolve through 8 levels. It has three power-ups, three visual themes and procedural music, and the developer lists cloud saving and offline play. Mouse and touch are both supported.

Sweets Merge and Flag Merging Puzzle Game also have you drag pieces into place, but both merge in pairs: Sweets Merge on a board of desserts, Flag Merging Puzzle Game against a timer.