Hatris (1990-)

• Developer: Bullet-Proof Software

• Publisher: Bullet-Proof Software

• Genre: Puzzle

• Composer: Ikki Nakamura

Hatris for the NES was developed and published by Bullet-Proof Software, releasing in 1990. The game remained largely exclusive to the NES at the time, though it was originally conceived as an arcade-style puzzle title and had iterations on other platforms in Japan. Hatris was inspired by the success of puzzle games such as Tetris, aiming to build on the falling-block concept while introducing a unique thematic twist centered around stacking different types of hats. Its development reflects the late 1980s and early 1990s boom in creative puzzle games for home consoles.

In Hatris, players are tasked with stacking hats of various shapes and sizes as they descend from the top of the screen. The goal is to arrange matching hats into complete stacks to clear them from the playing field, preventing the screen from filling up. The gameplay is straightforward yet increasingly challenging, requiring quick thinking, planning, and pattern recognition. Its visual presentation features colorful, clearly defined hats and a simple backdrop, ensuring that the focus remains on the puzzle-solving mechanics rather than complex graphics.

Gameplay revolves around moving and rotating hats as they fall, aligning them to form complete stacks of matching types. Players must balance speed with accuracy, as the game progressively increases the pace and variety of hat types. Strategic planning is essential, particularly in later levels where multiple types of hats appear simultaneously. The soundtrack, composed by Bullet-Proof Software’s in-house team, provides light, upbeat music that underscores the rhythm of gameplay and reinforces the casual, yet engaging nature of the puzzle experience.

Hatris did not have a prequel and did not lead to direct sequels on the NES. Promotion focused on the game’s connection to the popular puzzle genre, highlighting its novel hat-stacking mechanic as a fresh twist on the falling-block formula that had captivated players worldwide. Reception was moderately positive, with players and critics praising its addictive gameplay, colorful presentation, and clever variation on the puzzle formula, though some noted that it lacked the broad appeal of Tetris. Over time, Hatris has been remembered as a unique and challenging puzzle title that offered a distinct alternative to the more conventional block-stacking games of its era.

Images from MobyGames