A merge game usually makes combining objects part of building a longer item chain. A match-three game usually asks you to arrange matching pieces to satisfy a board objective. Those descriptions overlap at the broadest level, but the recurring decisions are different.
What the distinction means
Travel Town makes a continuing board of objects central to its identity. Candy Crush Saga centres on matching puzzles. Someone who enjoys keeping a useful collection of objects may prefer the former; someone who likes a clear individual board challenge may prefer the latter.
What to consider before playing
Before choosing, watch the recurring activity rather than only the opening story. Ask whether you want to manage what remains on a board or solve what the current board asks. A renovation theme can appear around either structure, so the setting alone is not a reliable genre label.
The useful takeaway
A merge game usually makes combining objects part of building a longer item chain. Before choosing, watch the recurring activity rather than only the opening story.