How to Win at Gem Match: Match-3 Tips & Strategy
Gem Match gives you a target score and a limited number of moves, so every swap has to count. The fastest way to big scores is special gems, made from larger matches, and the chain reactions they set off. This guide explains each special gem and how to plan your moves on the 8x8 board.
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Know your special gems
Match four in a line to make a line gem, which clears a whole row or column when you match it. Match in an L or T shape, with lines crossing, to make a bomb gem that clears the area around it. Match five in a row to make a star gem that wipes out every gem of one colour. Bigger matches are always worth looking for.
Look before you swap
Do not take the first match you see. Scan the whole board for a swap that creates a four, five or crossing shape. A special gem in your pocket is worth more than several ordinary three-matches, because it clears far more gems when you finally set it off and helps you hit the target in fewer moves.
Work from the bottom
Matches near the bottom of the board make every gem above them fall, which often lines up new matches by itself. These cascades score extra and cost you no moves. Matches at the top only move a few gems, so save them for when you need a specific gem cleared or nothing better is available.
Set off specials at the right time
A line gem set off along a full row does more than one at the edge of the board. Try to fire specials where they also cause cascades, and line up two specials near each other so one can trigger the other. If no moves are left, the board shuffles automatically, so you never lose a level that way.
Count your moves
Keep one eye on the moves left and the target. If you are close to the target with moves to spare, take safe matches that keep the board busy. If you are far behind, go for specials and cascades even if they take a move or two to set up. A level only ends badly when the moves run out short of the target.
Questions
- How do I make a bomb gem?
- Make a match where a horizontal and vertical line cross, in an L or T shape.
- What does the star gem do?
- It clears every gem of one colour from the board. You make it by matching five in a row.
- What happens if there are no possible swaps?
- The board shuffles automatically and play continues.
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