Tetris, the iconic puzzle game that has captivated millions, has a surprisingly tumultuous history that dates back to the mid-1980s. Created by the brilliant Alexey Pajitnov in the Soviet Union, Tetris became a global phenomenon through an intricate web of copyright disputes, secret negotiations, and daring acts of entrepreneurship, including one story about a tourist visa that went to extreme lengths. This compelling saga has even inspired a feature film! Now, the latest game collection from Digital Eclipse, titled Tetris Forever, brings this fascinating history to life like never before.

Digital Eclipse has established itself as a pioneer in the realm of interactive documentaries. Unlike traditional game collections that leave players to sift through a pile of retro titles and bonus material, Tetris Forever organizes everything on an engaging timeline, allowing a comprehensive exploration of each game's context and significance. This innovative approach has previously shed light on the legacies of Atari and the creation of Karateka by Jordan Mechner.

Tetris Forever particularly shines with its ability to convey the epic journey of Tetris. Players start off watching interviews with Pajitnov, discussing his upbringing and the inspiration behind the creation of Tetris. From there, they can experience the very first version of the game, which ran on the Electronika 60, an obscure Soviet computer using basic ASCII graphics.

As you progress through the timeline, you'll meet other key players in the Tetris saga, such as Henk Rogers, Pajitnov’s lifelong friend who played a pivotal role in the game's global spread. Digital Eclipse excels in intertwining these narratives, enhancing your understanding of Tetris’s cultural and historical weight. Insights from influential figures in the gaming industry, including Tetsuya Mizuguchi, renowned designer of Tetris Effect, further illuminate the game's impact on society at large.

Beyond the historical context, Tetris Forever delivers an impressive collection of 18 different Tetris games, including several rare titles that have never seen a wide release. Although it notably lacks the original Game Boy version, it compensates with a rich assortment of variations that explore how Pajitnov and other developers expanded on his groundbreaking concept. One standout is Magicaliss, bundled with Super Tetris 3, which introduces inventive puzzles and a thrilling metal fantasy backdrop.

Adding a contemporary twist, Tetris Forever features a brand-new iteration called Tetris Time Warp. This inventive game begins as a sleek modern take on Tetris but periodically transports players back to various classic styles, introducing fresh challenges within brief time frames. It's an exhilarating experience that stands strong on its own but feels like an exciting bonus within this vast collection.

Despite its longstanding presence in pop culture, securing a quality version of Tetris on modern devices can often be a challenge. This is precisely why Tetris Forever is well worth the investment. Digital Eclipse not only provides extensive interactivity that enriches the experience but also sets a new standard for exploring the depths of video game history.

Mark your calendars – Tetris Forever is set to launch on November 12th across PC, Switch, PlayStation, and Xbox. Prepare to immerse yourself in the deep legacy of Tetris and witness the timeless magic of one of the greatest games ever made!