Classic Concentration (1990-)

• Developer: Softie Inc.

• Publisher: GameTek Inc.

• Genre: Puzzle

• Composer: Rob Wallace

Classic Concentration for the NES was developed by Softie Inc. and released in 1990. The game was published by GameTek, known for producing video game adaptations of popular television game shows. Classic Concentration is based on the television game show of the same name, which involved contestants matching pairs of hidden prizes behind numbered tiles on a board. The NES version aimed to capture the spirit of the show by combining memory-based gameplay with puzzle elements tailored for a single-player experience.

The game’s inspiration obviously comes from the original Classic Concentration TV show, which aired from the early 1980s through the early 1990s. The gameplay focuses on the player flipping over tiles to find matching pairs, with a twist of revealing prizes and bonuses, attempting to clear the board within a limited number of moves. Unlike the TV show, the NES adaptation provided a solo challenge where players could test their memory skills against increasingly difficult levels, blending puzzle-solving with the excitement of uncovering hidden items. The game’s design was intended to make the board game feel accessible and engaging for home players, while keeping the core memory challenge intact.

Gameplay in Classic Concentration revolves around a grid of face-down tiles. Players select tiles two at a time to try and reveal matching pairs. The challenge escalates as the levels progress, with a growing number of tiles and limited chances to find all pairs. The game included various prize tiles and special bonuses that mimic the suspense and reward structure of the TV show. The soundtrack is minimal and functional, with sound effects used to enhance the experience of flipping tiles and completing matches, rather than featuring an elaborate musical score.

There was no prequel to Classic Concentration, nor any direct sequels on the NES or other platforms. The game’s promotion largely leveraged the popularity of the television series, appealing to fans who enjoyed the show’s format. Upon release, the reception was mixed; some appreciated the faithful adaptation of the game show’s concept, while others found the gameplay repetitive compared to more action-oriented titles available at the time. Despite this, Classic Concentration holds nostalgic value for those who enjoyed TV-based puzzle games during the NES era.

Images from MobyGames