The surge of Block Blast has left many with free time a new obsession.
Block Blast is a captivating puzzle game that challenges its users to fit different block shapes onto a grid, with the ultimate goal to clear columns and rows to increase their final score.
The mass rise has occurred through Generation Z’s use of social media to popularize the game. TikTok has been the main contributor, posting short ten-second clips and drawing in both users of the game and people interested.
The purpose of these clips allows viewers to play along, stimulating the notion to go onto the game or download it. With the influence of social media in current day standards, it is benefiting the game indirectly by the effortless posts made by game players.
With subtle tactics, Hungry Studio is able to covertly incorporate profit harnessing tactics while also maintaining player loyalty. If a player runs out of moves, they are presented with an option of reviving twice during any point of their game when they lose. When this happens, a 30 second ad is presented to players in turn for a chance of revival. Players see this as a boost, while Hungry Studio a gain because players are not giving a second thought to slow down when playing.
Less is more—with the simple aspect and layout Block Blast has, it’s accessible to a large range of people. Similar to a puzzle, the objective of this game is to fit pieces together to gain more points. After a couple of tries, this game is easy to follow and becomes addictive. “This game is so simple, yet so successful in making the games players want to continue to play. It’s easy to multitask, and honestly, very stimulating,” states sophomore, Juliette Escandel.
A neurological study completed by Harris Rabbani, who specializes in productivity and mindset states, “The right balance of challenge can keep players engaged and motivated to keep playing.” When progress is found within the game, dopamine is released, creating a sense of satisfaction. “Playing Block Blast is so calming and rewarding. The game becomes so addictive, especially when I am able to get the All clears (all the blocks are destroyed) because it is satisfying to see that my strategies are able to work,” comments James Gayoso, a sophomore.
A pattern of popular games such as Homescapes, Royal Kingdom, and Water Fill offered a straightforward outlook and charm. The exciting mix of colorful pieces and a puzzle-like layout shows a crowd favorite in app stores.
The inspiration for Block Blast comes from the legendary arcade game, Tetris. Seen by both games is the 8×8 grid where blocks are placed intending to destroy the columns and rows when the lines are filled completely. Block Blast has reeled Tetris players into a newer version of their favorite game.
The popularity of Block Blast has risen, and the game has continued to maintain their place of #1 in the “Casual games” section on the app store. When taking a look around, almost everyone will be playing Block Blast to kill time and engage their brains in this simple game, but how long will its reign last before another intriguing, simple game comes along?
