Pairs (Nichibutsu) (Japan 890822)

Pairs is a two-player puzzle game released in Japan in 1989 by Nichibutsu. Players navigate a grid of cards, attempting to find matching pairs within a field that includes standard suits and special action cards. Each player begins with eight hearts; failing to match a card results in the loss of one heart, and the game ends when all hearts are depleted. Successfully pairing specific "Cute Girl" cards completes a stage. Upon clearing a stage, players are presented with an image of one of five girls in a particular pose, accompanied by the opportunity to purchase items that unlock additional scenes featuring that character. Twenty different poses and item combinations exist, creating a layered experience beyond simple card matching. The game utilizes a Zilog Z80 processor and incorporates sound chips for its audio output. Special cards introduce elements of chance and strategy—from earning bonus currency with gold cards to shuffling the field or revealing hidden “Beautiful Girl” cards. Players can also encounter detrimental cards that subtract hearts, but finding their matches can offer rewards like extra lives.