Egyptian Challenge

Egyptian Challenge is a puzzle game released in 2001, inspired by the classic Columns. Players arrange falling columns of three jewels to create matches of three or more of the same type. The game features a split-screen setup for competitive play, either against the computer or another player, and includes power-ups represented as hieroglyphics that can be collected by making combos. These power-ups offer various strategic advantages, such as attacking the opponent’s field or defending one’s own, adding depth to the gameplay.

Egyptian Challenge: A Hidden Gem in the Puzzle Genre

Introduction

In the vast landscape of puzzle games, Egyptian Challenge stands as a unique and often overlooked title that blends the classic mechanics of Columns with a strategic, head-to-head twist. Released in 2001 by BEENERGY Entertainment and published by Crystal Interactive Software, Inc., this game offers a refreshing take on the falling block puzzle genre. While it may not have achieved the same level of fame as its contemporaries, Egyptian Challenge carves out its own niche with its Egyptian-themed aesthetics, competitive multiplayer mode, and innovative power-up system. This review delves deep into the game’s development history, narrative and thematic elements, gameplay mechanics, world-building, and its lasting legacy.

Development History & Context

The Studio and Creators’ Vision

BEENERGY Entertainment, the developer behind Egyptian Challenge, was a relatively small studio that aimed to create engaging and accessible games. The team consisted of a tight-knit group of individuals, including David Rodríguez Amàrita, who handled programming, and Josep Mª Gassiot, who was responsible for the game concept and graphics. The studio’s vision was to create a puzzle game that was not only fun and addictive but also visually appealing and thematically rich.

Technological Constraints and Era

Released in 2001, Egyptian Challenge was developed during a period of significant technological advancement in the gaming industry. The year saw the launch of major consoles like the GameCube and Xbox, as well as the Game Boy Advance. However, Egyptian Challenge was a PC-exclusive title, leveraging the capabilities of Windows-based systems. The game’s development was constrained by the hardware limitations of the time, but the team managed to create a visually appealing and smooth-running experience.

Gaming Landscape at the Time

The early 2000s were a golden era for puzzle games, with titles like Bejeweled and Jewel Quest gaining popularity. Egyptian Challenge entered this competitive landscape with a unique blend of classic puzzle mechanics and strategic elements. The game’s Egyptian theme and power-up system set it apart from other puzzle games of the era, offering players a fresh and engaging experience.

Narrative & Thematic Deep Dive

Plot and Characters

Egyptian Challenge does not feature a deep narrative in the traditional sense. Instead, it sets the stage with a thematic flair, casting players as rival temple initiates vying for favor in the eyes of Ra and Isis. Each victory is framed as a step toward becoming a high priest of the pharaoh, unlocking new halls of lore and hidden chambers of puzzle mastery. The game’s narrative is light but effective, providing a sense of progression and context for the player’s actions.

Dialogue and Themes

The game’s dialogue is minimal, with brief papyrus scroll interludes revealing snatches of mythic backdrop—tales of sun gods, sacred obelisks, and legendary artisans of the Nile. These narrative snippets lend a sense of progression as players advance through tiered challenges themed around different deities and royal courts. The underlying themes of competition, strategy, and ancient Egyptian mythology are woven throughout the game, creating a cohesive and immersive experience.

Gameplay Mechanics & Systems

Core Gameplay Loop

At its core, Egyptian Challenge is a falling block puzzle game that draws inspiration from Columns. The gameplay revolves around arranging falling trios of vibrant jewels to form lines of three or more, triggering dazzling combos. The screen is divided into two fields, each dedicated to a player, allowing for both solo play against the computer and local multiplayer showdowns. The goal is to clear the board by matching jewels, while also strategically using power-ups to gain an advantage over the opponent.

Combat and Character Progression

While Egyptian Challenge does not feature traditional combat or character progression, it does offer a unique power-up system that adds depth to the gameplay. Power-ups are collected by making combos and are stored as hieroglyphics for later use. These power-ups are organized into four groups: attack, defense, attack and defense, and one that wins the level. Each power-up has a specific effect, such as dropping gems in the enemy field, freezing the opponent’s gems, removing jewels from the field, or dropping rocks in the enemy field.

UI and Innovative Systems

The game’s user interface is clean and intuitive, with a split-screen setup that allows for easy navigation and gameplay. The tabs for stored hieroglyphics are neatly arranged above each playfield, with clear icons and cooldown animations. The power-up system is one of the game’s most innovative features, adding a strategic layer to the classic puzzle mechanics. The automatic collection and use of these abilities mean every match has a ripple effect on both sides of the screen, creating a dynamic and engaging experience.

World-Building, Art & Sound

Setting and Atmosphere

Egyptian Challenge is set in the sun-drenched tombs of Ancient Egypt, with a visual style that evokes classic ’90s puzzle cabinets. The game’s setting is richly detailed, featuring sandstone walls, carved columns, and drifting hieroglyph panels that reinforce the theme without distracting from the core gameplay. The atmosphere is immersive and engaging, drawing players into the ancient world of Egyptian mythology.

Visual Direction

Visually, Egyptian Challenge embraces a colorful, retro-inspired palette that ensures clarity and readability even at higher speeds. The jewel designs are bright and distinct, making it easy for players to identify runs of the same type. The backgrounds feature subtle Egyptian motifs that enhance the game’s thematic cohesion. The power-up animations are concise but impactful, providing instant visual feedback that makes each combo feel satisfying and meaningful.

Sound Design

The game’s sound design complements the on-screen action, with chime-like musical cues and sound effects that enhance the overall experience. The audio elements are well-integrated, creating a cohesive and immersive atmosphere that draws players into the game’s ancient Egyptian setting.

Reception & Legacy

Critical and Commercial Reception

Egyptian Challenge received mixed reviews upon its release. While it was praised for its innovative power-up system and engaging gameplay, it was also criticized for its lack of depth and narrative. The game’s commercial success was modest, but it managed to carve out a niche for itself in the competitive puzzle game market.

Evolution of Reputation

Over the years, Egyptian Challenge has gained a cult following among puzzle game enthusiasts. Its unique blend of classic puzzle mechanics and strategic elements has been appreciated by players who enjoy both quick sessions and extended duels. The game’s Egyptian theme and power-up system have been particularly praised for adding a fresh and engaging twist to the genre.

Influence on Subsequent Games

While Egyptian Challenge may not have had a significant impact on the broader gaming industry, it has influenced subsequent puzzle games with its innovative power-up system and competitive multiplayer mode. The game’s unique blend of classic mechanics and strategic elements has inspired other developers to explore similar concepts in their own titles.

Conclusion

Egyptian Challenge is a hidden gem in the puzzle genre, offering a unique and engaging experience that blends classic mechanics with strategic elements. The game’s Egyptian theme, innovative power-up system, and competitive multiplayer mode set it apart from other puzzle games of its era. While it may not have achieved the same level of fame as its contemporaries, Egyptian Challenge has carved out its own niche and gained a cult following among puzzle game enthusiasts. Its lasting legacy is a testament to the game’s innovative design and engaging gameplay, making it a must-try for fans of the genre.