Hatris

Hatris is a classic puzzle game developed by Bullet-Proof Software and released for the PC Engine in 1990. It is a spin-off of the legendary Tetris, created by Alexey Pajitnov, the same designer who created Tetris. Instead of falling blocks, you control falling hats. The goal is to stack hats of the same type in columns, and when a column has five identical hats, they disappear, scoring points. The hats come in various styles – top hats, cowboy hats, baseball caps, and more – each with distinct colors and designs.

The gameplay requires strategic placement because you can only move the pair of hats left or right, and you can swap their order. This limitation adds a layer of challenge, forcing you to think ahead and plan your moves carefully. The game introduces a "fire" mechanic where you can burn hats, but at a cost, which adds a risk-reward element to the puzzle-solving. The PC Engine version features colorful, detailed graphics and a whimsical, playful presentation that matches the game's lighthearted tone.

A unique feature is the "fire" system – you can sacrifice a hat to clear a column, but it costs you points, so you must use it strategically. The game also includes a two-player competitive mode where you send "garbage hats" to your opponent, adding a competitive edge to the puzzle gameplay. The difficulty escalates as the speed increases, testing your reflexes and planning skills.

Hatris is a solid puzzle game on the PC Engine, offering a unique twist on the classic Tetris formula. Its charming hat theme, strategic depth, and competitive multiplayer make it a fun and engaging title for puzzle enthusiasts.