Disney Magic Match 3D soft launch preview – “Make match-3 magic to clear cute clutter”

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  • Instantly recognisable icons from the Disney franchise
  • Tap-based twist to your average match-3 puzzler
  • Chill lofi vibes, pressure-filled time limit

Genie lamps, fairy dust, and lots of light and affection – all these elements give Disney an almost iconic connection with the concept of “magic”. That’s why the title Disney Magic Match 3D is fittingly descriptive of its nature, and it delivers on its promise.

In this match-3 game, you’ll find yourself matching various whimsical trinkets reminiscent of Disney’s extensive line of intellectual properties. One moment, you might be rummaging through heaps of sewing supplies to collect pins, needles, and dresses; the next, you could be searching through iconic theme park items for Mickey-themed treats. Overall, it’s a typical match-3 game experience with a magical, Disney-inspired touch, which makes it an engaging and delightful playtime option.

Down the rabbit hole to infinity and beyond

Essentially, all you really have to do is tap on items to clear them from a messy pile of stuff on each stage. There’s a set number of specific things you’ll need to tap to clear the stage, but while it might sound simple enough, the mess gets more and more chaotic as you go along.

At advanced stages, you may find challenges that appear deceptively as “Difficult” levels. Here, things might not be exactly as they seem; for example, you might believe you’re removing a green paintbrush, but it could be slightly lighter than the one you’re aiming for. Each incorrect tap will result in losing valuable space on your tray.

Indeed, the tray is quite a challenge for me. It seems to be a source of frustration rather than assistance. By tapping three identical items consecutively, you’ll find them accumulating at the bottom of the screen in your tray. However, there’s a restriction on space available in this tray, so mindless tapping won’t help much in clearing the board faster. Each item not in threes will occupy a spot in your tray, and once it’s full, you’ll be unable to continue.

Thankfully, you can spend coins earned from each level to clear up space on your tray, but those can run out too, so you’ll really need to keep your eyes peeled for the right items to match if you don’t want to end up bankrupt.

As soothing lo-fi tunes fill the air, creating a laid-back atmosphere, for me, the cramped workspace only amplifies the stress, especially with the clock relentlessly counting down as you search for your target. Although it might seem effortless for players with keen eyesight, if, like myself, you struggle to distinguish between a gold trumpet and a gold harp due to their striking similarity, then this game isn’t exactly a leisurely stroll through a park.

Sharp eyes, precise taps

That’s the whole point, of course, as puzzlers need to have a level of challenge for things to get interesting. There are boosters you can earn, like additional time or magnets that help you find items in the pile, as well as lovely magic items you can unlock to add to your Collection. These spice up the gameplay and add stakes to me – I mean, who wouldn’t want to collect paraphernalia from all of Andy’s toys?

Additionally, attempting to conquer levels on your initial attempt can earn you extra Boosters in the subsequent level, which is quite beneficial when the wooden paddles and palm trees from Moana’s realm start appearing strikingly alike.

Disney Magic Match 3D is now available for select regions including the UK, France, Germany, and the Philippines, among others, during its soft launch phase. The user interface hints at potential social features such as a friend system or multiplayer mode, and a global leaderboard to engage in competitive play upon full release.

Until that time comes, I’ll simply continue with joy, aiding Belle in tidying the cutlery at the castle. Oh, wouldn’t it be wonderful if I could wave a magic wand and instantly clean everything up like that… (Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo)

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2025-05-16 17:48