The phrase describes a genre of puzzle games centered on combining elements to create new items and discover a larger world of possibilities. Typically, players begin with a small set of basic components, such as earth, water, fire, and air, and through experimentation and logical deduction, combine these to unlock more complex elements like plants, animals, and even abstract concepts. The core mechanic involves dragging and dropping elements onto each other to observe the result, fostering a sense of discovery and encouraging creative problem-solving.
These types of games offer several benefits, including stimulating logical thinking, promoting experimentation, and providing a relaxing and engaging form of entertainment. Their appeal lies in the open-ended nature of the gameplay and the continuous sense of progression as new items are created. The roots of this gameplay mechanic can be traced back to earlier puzzle games that emphasized combining items, but it has been refined and popularized by titles that offer a streamlined and visually appealing experience.
