Pochi And Nyaa Windows Port: Classic Compile Puzzler Finally Debuts on PC

Pochi And Nyaa, a beloved yet niche falling-block puzzle title developed by Compile, has just received a Windows release more than two decades after its intended arcade debut.

Former Compile president Masamitsu Niitani spearheaded this effort, offering longtime fans the opportunity to legally play this unique puzzle game on modern PCs for the first time.

First announced in 2002 for Sega's NAOMI arcade hardware, Pochi And Nyaa was poised to expand Compile's legacy of inventive puzzle games—following in the footsteps of classics like Puyo Puyo.

Unfortunately, Compile filed for bankruptcy before it could bring the arcade release to market.

The game’s fate was uncertain until SNK Playmore stepped in to publish it for the Neo Geo system in late 2003.

Later, Pochi And Nyaa received a PlayStation 2 port, but it remained exclusive to Japan and developed something of a cult following among puzzle enthusiasts. The newly released Windows version is described as a faithful port of the original unreleased NAOMI build, bringing the arcade experience to home computers.

According to a description on Niitani’s website, Pochi And Nyaa is a "legendary falling-block puzzle game that brought innovation to the genre." The game’s core mechanics challenge players to connect and branch colored blocks, timing their ignition to trigger satisfying chain reactions—rewarding skillful combo and branching chain management with exhilarating visuals and strategic depth. Notably, D4 Enterprise, which holds rights to multiple classic game properties, is credited for the image used in the port’s announcement.

However, it remains unclear if D4 Enterprise is directly involved with this new digital release.

Given the ambiguity around licensing, long-time fans and new players are advised to act promptly and secure their copy, as the game may not be available online for an extended period. The Windows port of Pochi And Nyaa can be downloaded for 2,000 Yen, making it an accessible opportunity for enthusiasts of Japanese puzzle games and retro titles alike.

This release marks a significant moment—not only as a revival of a once-lost Compile gem, but also as a nod to the enduring appeal of innovative game design from the early 2000s. Pochi And Nyaa’s journey across platforms—from the ill-fated NAOMI arcade version, to its Neo Geo and PS2 releases, and now finally to PC—serves as a testament to the dedication of its original creators and the passion of its community.

For fans of classic action-puzzle games, this surprise Windows release offers both a nostalgic trip and a fresh challenge.

PC Windows arcade Pochi And Nyaa Compile Masamitsu Niitani D4 Enterprise Neo Geo PS2 NAOMI arcade