Take a look at most lists of “the top selling video games of all time’ and you’ll see a common name throughout generations of gameplay – Tetris.
The block puzzle game has not only been one of the most accessible titles for gamers of all levels (including people who don’t consider themselves gamers) but has also been an inspiration to multiple “clones” on just about any format you can name.
Tetris has remained top for so long by being the “David Bowie” of video games. As the years go on it constantly reinvents itself to new audiences with exciting ways to play while remaining true to its core of being intelligent and fun
A Mash Up Made in Heaven
Play as either game or in a mashup of both, the options are endless
Now Tetris has teamed up with SEGA’s Puyo Puyo for a second time to deliver a fast paced puzzle battle mashup that is loads of fun for up to 4 players. This is a party game that lets the player choose their style. Being slightly different games it can be a real challenge to have a Tetris expert go up against a Puyo Puyo master in a similar way that we’ve seen before in fighting games like Marvel Vs Capcom.
The best thing about both games is that you can learn the rules in seconds. From the first or second drop you can see how the pieces match together and how creating long chains of similarity can create devastating attacks on your opponents.
Modes
There are plenty of modes to choose from in gameplay which gives you options for single player vs a CPU or going up against friends online or the same TV. Some of the modes can really add a layer of excitement as players need to be able to master a fusion of both Tetris and Puyo Puyo together, but I found this really just showed how the two games really compliment each other.
The characters are cute and dangerous all at once
By playing the game you will be able to unlock more characters adding more fun and variety to the game. There’s also new backgrounds and more which add a nice layer of effect.
In Adventure mode it takes you through a story with the Puyo Puyo characters on an adventure involving the bricks from Tetris and some familiar faces along the way. There’s a really nice balance of humor and the scenes between games are not too drawn out but still reveal a story that is interesting and fun especially for a puzzle game like this. This starts at an easy beginner level and teaches you to play along the way gradually getting more difficult. Collect item cards along the way to use in Skill Battles.
Multiplayer Arcade has lots of modes including all 5 from the original game so you can still play popular modes like Fusion and Big Bang. It’s really worth trying them all out as there’s something for everyone here.
Skill Battle is a brand new mode where you equip your best cards with your best team and manage your hit points as well as your mana points which allow you to cast abilities. This is one of the more challenging modes in the game but also very rewarding when you master it.
Taking It Online
Taking part in the Puzzle League sets you against the entire globe of players online to find out where your play level is in comparison. There’s also Free play for a more casual approach and Replays. There’s a quick menu item to invite your friends to join, playing with friends is what this game is all about. It’s a real social experience that is highlighted by any mode you play against a real human opponent.
I won’t go into detail about which characters you can play as because that experience shouldn’t be ruined for fans of either franchise. But I will say that the animation is just beautiful. The bright colours and anime style creates a really inviting and fun atmosphere. The game launches with a stack of content already but don’t be surprised if we see some more familiar characters in further updates.
Final Thought
One thing I love about this game is just how family friendly and accessible it is, it’s coming out on December 8th on pretty much all formats. You’ll be able to play this action puzzler on PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series S & X as well as being available on Steam.