Overview and Gameplay
Quarth sends block formations down a vertical playfield toward a limit line. Move a fighter along the bottom and fire square pieces into the falling shapes. Completing a square or rectangle erases the enclosed formation, while larger constructions can surround several groups at once.
Solo play covers areas numbered 0 through 9, each divided into ten sections. Higher areas increase the speed and quantity of falling blocks, and the starting area can be selected before play. Additional modes support alternating play, simultaneous cooperation on one field, and competitive matches on separate fields.
Controls And Mechanics
Left and right move the fighter, while Up accelerates the falling formations. A and B both fire block pieces. Only four fired pieces can remain on screen at once, so another shot becomes available after a piece joins a formation.
Allowing blocks to cross the limit line costs one ship. Solo play begins with three ships, and every 10,000 points awards another. Special blocks can clear the screen, stop movement temporarily, double scoring, or grant bonus points. In versus play, large grouped clears shift the limit lines to pressure the opponent.
Version Notes
This Family Computer conversion of the arcade game adds selectable starting areas, a life system, special item blocks, and three distinct two-player formats. The original arcade release was also known internationally as Block Hole.
Release And Credits
- Release year: 1990
- Developer: Konami
- Publisher: Konami
- Original platform: Arcade
- Alternate arcade title: Block Hole
