Description

Lines 98 Old School is a classic “make lines to clear” logic game: you move colored balls across a grid (only if a path exists), form lines—usually five or more—then those lines disappear and you regain space. The pressure comes from the rule that after each move, new balls appear, so every turn either creates progress or creates clutter. Controls Select a ball: click/tap the ball Move: click/tap an empty tile (only works if there’s a path) What the game is really about It’s not “make a line whenever possible.” It’s “protect mobility.” You can only move along connected empty paths. If the board gets split into islands, you lose even with good colors. Play for future lines, not only instant clears Sometimes the best move doesn’t clear now—it sets up a double clear next. Strong setups: • two nearly-complete lines at once (one move away each) • a “cross” where one ball can complete both a vertical and diagonal line depending on where you place it This is how high scores happen: one good move triggers a clear, which creates space, which makes the next clear possible. Protect open lanes (your ability to move is the real resource) Try to keep at least one clear corridor across the board: • a horizontal lane • or a vertical lane If you let new balls block everything into pockets, you’ll see a perfect color… and you won’t be able to reach it. Use the preview (if your version shows next colors) Many Lines-style games show the next 3 colors. If you can see upcoming balls: • build toward those colors • avoid setting up a line that will be blocked by an incoming color you can’t control The preview isn’t a hint. It’s your planning tool. When to take a “space move” If you can’t create a line soon, make a move that creates room instead: • pull a ball out of the center into a side staging area • open a corridor so future moves are possible Space moves feel like doing nothing, but they prevent the board from locking. Common mistakes • building one line at a time while the board fills (too slow) • letting the center clog (KO mobility) • ignoring diagonals (diagonals are often the easiest clears) • chasing a perfect line across the map and losing your corridors Mini challenge: corridor discipline Play until you clear three lines, but you’re not allowed to block your main corridor. You’ll learn how to “store” balls without trapping yourself. FAQ Why can’t I move a ball where I want? No path exists. Keep corridors open so paths remain connected. What’s the best scoring strategy? Set up double clears and cross setups rather than single lines. Should I focus on the center? Use the center for building, but don’t let it clog. Mobility matters more than location. How do I avoid getting stuck late game? Prioritize space moves and keep one main corridor open at all times.

Instruction

Control - touch the ball you want to move and with the second touch choose where to move this ball When playing from a computer select a ball with a mouse click and the next click indicate where to move this ball

Specifications

• Easy to play