Newbies, I got you. So the game has levels. I’m not sure how far up they go, with some sources saying the game goes up to 14,690 levels! Yes, all of them are unique in their own right, with slight variations to the basic concept, which in summary, is this:
Getting Started
First things first, download the Candy Crush Saga app on your phone. It’s completely free
Open the app and tap “Play!”
The goal is to clear as many rows and columns as possible using as few moves as you can
Gameplay
To clear a row or column, press and hold one of the candies
Then, swap it with an adjacent candy (so long as it’s not blocked)
You can only swap to create a match of three or more candies of the same colour
Once a match is created, they “crush” into oblivion
Afterwards, Candy Crush replaces the exploded candies with new ones
Keep track of the number of moves you have left at the top of your screen and your objective.
Also, keep track of special boosters at the bottom of your screen
The more you play, the more your objective will change. For example, you can be asked to clear several blue candies.
Once you finish the objective, you’ll unlock a new level
Tips & Tricks
You may want to gun for the wrapped candies or the chocolate with sprinkles ones as much as possible, then use it to clear the other candies faster
Like chess, try to think several moves ahead. That way, you can identify patterns and opportunities and maximise their use. It can take a while, but trust me; it gets easier with time.
As you progress, the levels will get harder. Some will have gaps in between the candies. Or, have “floating shelves,” haha. Make sure to consider these in your “thinking ahead” plan.
Don’t be afraid to quit the game and come back later. Often, when you return, the level that was giving you a headache will be easier to complete.
Always ignore the suggestions Candy Crush makes. I know it’s tempting to follow the leader, but not if the leader doesn’t know what they’re doing.
And lastly, to reiterate, don’t forget the boosters at the bottom of the screen!
I’d love to know what other mobile games keep you sane in this economy. Let me know! Meanwhile, check out our “1, 2, 3… Let’s Go. A Quick Rundown of How Gamers in My Hometown Like to Go Down” article, and let us know of any questions or concerns.