Digital Eclipse has recently unveiled the complete roster of titles that will be included in their highly anticipated Tetris collection, Tetris Forever. This comprehensive collection features not only established classics but also introduces some games to audiences outside of Japan for the first time. Here’s a deep dive into the various facets of what the Tetris Forever collection has to offer.
A journey spanning four decades of the celebrated history of Tetris is on offer with this extensive compilation of 14 classic games. The lineup includes several games that are making their global debut. The nostalgia-bound trip begins in 1984 with a meticulous reproduction of the first Tetris game which was broadcast on the Electronika 60 computer. Multiplayer enthusiasts can enjoy the much-loved Tetris Battle Gaiden while the explosive Super Tetris 2 + Bombliss promises riveting gameplay. The compilation is an amalgamation of both single-player and multiplayer games that have been diligently ported or reconstructed from their original versions on Electronika 60, Apple II, NES, Game Boy, and Nintendo’s Japanese-market-only consoles, the Famicom and Super Famicom.
Before we delve deeper let’s take a swift glance through the compendious list of game titles that Tetris Forever promises to bring:
1. Tetris – This iconic game owes its origin to Pajitnov and debuted in 1984 on the Electronika 60.
2. Tetris (48K Version) – Spectrum Holobyte introduced this version to the world in 1988 on the Apple II.
3. Tetris – An offering from Bullet-Proof Software in 1988 for the Famicom
4. Hatris – This enduring game was released by Bullet-Proof Software in 1990 on the Famicom.
5. Tetris 2 + Bombliss – This explosive game launched in 1990 on the Famicom by Bullet-Proof Software.
Other notable games made by Bullet-Proof Software for different Nintendo platforms throughout the ’90s are also included.
Apart from an impressive selection of classic games, Tetris Forever introduces a brand-new game, Tetris Time Warp, developed by Digital Eclipse itself. This innovative version of the classic allows players to transition or “warp” through different eras of Tetris, experiencing an exciting blend of graphics, playstyles, and mechanics in real-time. This amalgamated experience promises an exciting trip down memory lane. The game lineup in Tetris Forever can potentially expand even post its release.
One of the key highlights of the collection is the re-creation of the first version of Tetris as envisioned by creator Alexey Pajitnov in 1984. Committed to authenticity, Digital Eclipse has recreated the game using a Soviet “Electronika 60” computer system, allowing players to appreciate the original look and feel of Tetris.
What sets Tetris Forever apart is its unique interactive timeline feature. This virtual museum captures the evolution of the game over the years with high-definition restorations, arranged chronologically, of archival materials. These include original commercials, photographs, videos, and, most importantly, the games themselves.
Adding a cherry on top of this already exciting collection is a series of documentary featurettes from Area 5, the creators of noteworthy work such as Outerlands, Grounded: The Making of The Last of Us, and Grounded II: Making The Last of Us Part II. This documentary delves deep into the true story of Tetris, unpacking the 30-year history of the game in its most genuine form.
Tetris Forever is set to release for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Switch, and PC via Steam and GOG in 2024. A sneak peek into the gaming experience can be availed through a newly-released trailer.
Boasting a rich history and a promising lineup of games, Tetris Forever is all set to reignite passion among Tetris fans and deliver an advanced and enriching gaming experience to a new generation of players.
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