RahJongg: The Curse of Ra transforms mahjong into an arcade-style puzzle game set amidst Egyptian hieroglyphs and tombs. Developed by Used Star and published by eGames for Windows in 1998, it starts with the concept of matching pairs but alters the standard rules: tiles can be matched if a line connects them with no more than two turns, meaning walls and the board layout dictate which moves are possible.
In story mode, the goal is to complete a series of trials to break the curse afflicting Ra. The campaign features 50 puzzles: seven dynasties—each with seven challenges—and a final trial. Each board requires careful observation of available paths and strategic selection of the order in which pairs are matched; removing a tile might open new routes but could also isolate others or lead to a dead end. Levels are timed, and the game includes scoring and lives, so finding the solution isn't enough—speed is essential.
The setting directly influ...
RahJongg: The Curse of Ra transforms mahjong into an arcade-style puzzle game set amidst Egyptian hieroglyphs and tombs. Developed by Used Star and published by eGames for Windows in 1998, it starts with the concept of matching pairs but alters the standard rules: tiles can be matched if a line connects them with no more than two turns, meaning walls and the board layout dictate which moves are possible.
In story mode, the goal is to complete a series of trials to break the curse afflicting Ra. The campaign features 50 puzzles: seven dynasties—each with seven challenges—and a final trial. Each board requires careful observation of available paths and strategic selection of the order in which pairs are matched; removing a tile might open new routes but could also isolate others or lead to a dead end. Levels are timed, and the game includes scoring and lives, so finding the solution isn't enough—speed is essential.
The setting directly influences gameplay mechanics. In addition to matchable tiles, there are walls that block paths, as well as special elements like bombs or magnets that alter board dynamics and force players to rethink their strategy. Power-ups and bonuses can help resolve a jam, but it is best to save them for tricky situations. Upon completing a level, the game provides a password so you can resume play later.
For practice without progressing through the campaign, the free-play mode generates random boards. It also supports local two-player matches and includes a level editor for creating your own challenges. That variety allows RahJongg to function as either a leisurely test of logic or a race against the clock, depending on the mode and pace each player prefers.
With its blend of Mahjong rules, spatial planning, and arcade-style pressure, RahJongg: The Curse of Ra breaks away from traditional solitaire without losing its core appeal: clearing the board by matching pairs. Its Egyptian theme ties the adventure together, while obstacles and special tools keep the puzzles dynamic, rewarding foresight just as much as agility.
