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Tetris Forever

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Tetris Forever
Item: Tetris Forever
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresSide View Perspective, Puzzle and Logic, Casual, Strategy, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableNov 12, 2024

PlatformXbox Series X, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

DeveloperDigital Eclipse

Overview

Tetris Forever celebrates the original, genre-inspiring puzzle game that escaped from behind the Iron Curtain, onto the world stage, and into our cultural consciousness. More than 15 playable classic games from the series' history are featured, including many being released for the first time outside Japan. Battle your friends in the multiplayer cult favorite Tetris Battle Gaiden, create massive explosions to clear lines in Super Bombliss, and see where it all began in 1984 with an accurate recreation of the first version of Tetris on the Electronika 60 computer.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Story of Tetris Forever is a masterclass in gaming history, blending immersive, docu-style storytelling with rare interviews, Cold War context, and structured chapters to celebrate Tetris’s cultural legacy—though its dense, fan-focused approach may leave casual players craving more gameplay.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

92%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The majority of critics praised Story of Tetris Forever for its immersive and educational storytelling, highlighting its comprehensive exploration of the game’s origins and legacy. VGC and ZTGD both emphasized the game’s extensive coverage of Tetris’s history, including firsthand accounts from pivotal figures like Alexey Pajitnov and Henk Rogers, which they described as “fascinating” and “rich.” GameSpew and Metro GameCentral commended the interactive documentary format, noting how it effectively blends quotes, photographs, and interviews to bring the narrative to life. Critics like PlayStation Country and Push Square appreciated the detailed focus on licensing battles and the Cold War-era context, while Checkpoint Gaming and GameCritics celebrated its structured chapters and contextualization of Tetris’s evolution in the gaming industry. The game’s ability to serve as both a tribute to video game history and an accessible primer for newcomers was repeatedly underscored, with Gaming Nexus and God is a Geek praising its engaging, multi-layered approach through five chapters and a 90-minute documentary. While the reviews overwhelmingly leaned positive, some critics subtly noted that the game’s emphasis on storytelling might appeal more to enthusiasts than casual players. For instance, Gaming Nexus mentioned that the five-chapter structure could feel dense for those unfamiliar with Tetris’s background, though they still deemed it “engaging.” Similarly, Impulsegamer described it as an “interactive museum display,” which might imply a lack of gameplay elements or dynamic interactivity beyond its documentary-style presentation. However, these observations were minimal and framed as niche considerations rather than significant drawbacks. Most reviewers acknowledged that the game’s primary strength lies in its historical depth and narrative coherence, with only a few hinting that its format could be less appealing to those seeking traditional gaming experiences. The overall consensus among critics is that Story of Tetris Forever is a highly commendable and informative experience, with its interactive documentary format and rich historical content standing out as its defining features. All reviewers, regardless of platform (XBOX Series X, PS5, or PC), agreed that the game successfully captures the cultural and industry significance of Tetris, making it a must-watch for fans and history buffs alike. The inclusion of interviews with key figures and the use of multimedia elements were frequently cited as strengths, with Checkpoint Gaming and GameCritics emphasizing how these components elevate the game beyond a mere retelling of events. While no major criticisms were voiced, the game’s focus on storytelling over gameplay solidified its reputation as a unique, educational, and respectful homage to one of gaming’s most iconic titles.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Tetris Forever is a nostalgic, expansive tribute with 18 versions, inventive modes like Time Warp, and modern tweaks, but missing icons, inconsistent mechanics, and no online play make it a compelling yet flawed collection for fans.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

67%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

33%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Tetris Forever is widely praised for its extensive variety and innovative additions, with critics highlighting its 18 playable Tetris versions spanning from classic to modern iterations. VGC and ZTGD commend the inclusion of unique titles like Tetris Time Warp, which introduces a "fun new spin" and "time-travel element" to the genre, offering fresh mechanics such as retro blocks and different modes. GameSpew and Metro GameCentral note the historical context and diverse playstyles, while Push Square emphasizes the "pristine and configurable emulation" of classic titles, including Pajitnov’s original Electronika 60 prototype. Features like customizable controls, a rewind function, and leaderboards (as mentioned by Pure Nintendo and GameCritics) further enhance accessibility and replayability, making the collection feel both nostalgic and modern. The game’s ability to let players "jump into any game they want from the start" (GameCritics) and its focus on "modern mechanics like t-spins" (Gamer Escape) underscore its appeal to both casual and dedicated fans. However, several critics point to notable shortcomings. ZTGD and Checkpoint Gaming express disappointment over the absence of "notable versions" and "missing iconic titles," which could limit the game’s appeal for purists. PlayStation Country and Gaming Nexus critique Tetris Time Warp’s mechanics, with the former noting "some issues" and the latter questioning the "relevance of some included games." Additionally, Checkpoint Gaming and GameGrin highlight the lack of online multiplayer, a feature that many modern Tetris fans expect, and the inclusion of "less relevant spin-offs" that may dilute the experience. While the game’s historical depth is appreciated, some reviewers feel it prioritizes breadth over depth, leaving certain mechanics or modes underdeveloped or inconsistent with the core Tetris formula. Overall, the consensus leans positive, with most critics acknowledging Tetris Forever as a comprehensive and nostalgic celebration of the franchise. The inclusion of Tetris Time Warp is a standout highlight, praised for its creativity and replay value (Pure Nintendo, God is a Geek), while the diverse lineup of titles caters to a broad audience. However, the game’s flaws—such as missing classics, inconsistent mechanics, and the absence of online features—prevent it from being a perfect package. As ZTGD and Gaming Nexus suggest, the collection’s value depends on what players prioritize: historical appreciation versus modern innovation. Despite these critiques, the game’s accessibility, customization options, and variety of experiences make it a compelling choice for Tetris enthusiasts, even if it falls short of being a definitive or universally satisfying package.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Tetris Forever is a visually stunning, nostalgic tribute to the franchise’s history, blending retro charm with modern polish—though some older versions feel outdated, it’s still a must-play for fans and a beautifully curated celebration of Tetris' legacy.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

60%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

40%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The majority of critics praise Tetris Forever for its nostalgic and meticulously crafted visual design, emphasizing its ability to balance retro charm with modern presentation. VGC highlights the "high-quality images and video clips" and "attention to detail in recreating older versions of Tetris," while ZTGD notes the game’s faithful recreation of the original Electronika 60 aesthetic, appealing to classic fans. GameSpew and Metro GameCentral commend the "beautifully presented timelines" and "museum’s presentation" that showcase Tetris’s history through videos, photos, and playable games. PlayStation Country and Checkpoint Gaming also applaud the "varied visual styles" and "authenticity" of retro and modern displays, with the latter praising the "curated gallery feel" of the menus. These reviews collectively underscore the game’s success in honoring Tetris’s legacy while offering a visually engaging experience across platforms. However, some critics point to limitations in the visual fidelity of older Tetris iterations, noting that they may not meet modern standards. PlayStation Universe observes that "some [versions] fall short in comparison to modern standards," while GameGrin mentions that "some older versions have visuals that may not hold up well." Pure Nintendo also critiques the absence of "some favorite versions of Tetris," suggesting the collection isn’t exhaustive. These critiques highlight a tension between preserving historical accuracy and satisfying contemporary expectations for graphical polish, though they remain relatively minor in the broader context of the game’s design. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with Tetris Forever celebrated as a visually rich tribute to the franchise’s evolution. The game’s strength lies in its ability to blend archival materials, retro aesthetics, and modern enhancements, creating a cohesive and educational experience. While some older visuals and missing versions are acknowledged as drawbacks, the majority of reviews emphasize the "sumptuous package" (God is a Geek) and "beautifully curated" content (Impulsegamer), reinforcing its value as both a nostalgic journey and a technical achievement. The varied platform-specific praise—spanning Xbox, PS5, Switch, and PC—further underscores its broad appeal and thoughtful design.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

music and sound design

Description unavailable

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Tetris Forever praised for technical performance on Xbox, PS5, and Switch, but faces platform-specific issues: Xbox's video sync glitch, PS5's control inconsistencies and speed problems, and Switch's uneven controls. While not critical, these flaws highlight the need for better polish and uniformity in its diverse gameplay.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

50%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Tetris Forever receives generally positive feedback across its platforms, with each reviewer highlighting specific strengths. On the Xbox Series X, VGC commends the game for its "high technical performance and stability," emphasizing the faithful recreation of the original Tetris and attention to detail. ZTGD also acknowledges the platform's solid foundation but notes a minor video sync issue, which they describe as "distracting but not game-breaking." For the PS5, PlayStation Universe reports "no issues reported, with quick loading times and responsive controls," while PlayStation Country points to "issues with standardization of controls in Tetris Time Warp" and "gameplay speed increasing too quickly," which could frustrate some players. On the Nintendo Switch, Checkpoint Gaming praises the "near-flawless emulation" of original versions, capturing their quirks, and Gamer Escape highlights "solid performance targets" and a "well-balanced presentation of games and storytelling," suggesting the port is technically competent despite some inconsistencies. However, platform-specific technical drawbacks emerge in the critiques. On the Xbox Series X, ZTGD’s mention of video sync issues raises concerns about minor graphical glitches that might affect immersion, though they are not critical. For the PS5, PlayStation Country criticizes the "standardization of controls" and the "gameplay speed increasing too quickly," which could make certain challenges feel unfair or unbalanced. On the Nintendo Switch, Checkpoint Gaming identifies "inconsistent controls across different games" as a potential source of confusion, undermining the user experience despite the emulation quality. These issues, while not catastrophic, reflect areas where Tetris Forever could improve its technical polish, particularly in ensuring uniformity and responsiveness across its diverse game collection. The overall consensus among critics leans toward a positive assessment, with most acknowledging the game’s technical strengths while noting minor flaws. VGC and PlayStation Universe emphasize stability and performance on their respective platforms, whereas ZTGD and PlayStation Country highlight specific technical hiccups that, while not deal-breakers, detract from the experience. Checkpoint Gaming and Gamer Escape praise the Switch port’s emulation and balance, but the inconsistency in controls remains a shared concern. Despite these critiques, the game’s technical execution appears robust, with the primary challenges lying in platform-specific optimizations and control standardization rather than overarching stability or functionality. The varied feedback suggests that Tetris Forever succeeds in delivering a technically sound experience but requires refinement to address subtle issues that may affect player satisfaction.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Tetris Forever dazzles with a vast, nostalgic library and inventive Time Warp mode, but missing key titles, repetitive gameplay, and no online multiplayer curb its replayability, making it a love-it-or-hate-it treat for Tetris purists.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

53%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

47%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The majority of critics highlight the strong replay value of Tetris Forever through its diverse collection of titles and innovative features. VGC praises the "interactive museum format" and "diverse selection of games," while ZTGD emphasizes the "gamified experience with completion percentages" and the "multitude of versions" that keep players engaged. GameSpew and Push Square specifically commend the inclusion of Tetris Time Warp, a new mode that "offers a unique experience by sending players through each era of the franchise" via warp blocks. PlayStation Country and GameCritics note the "curated collection" and "exhaustive library" of historical content, appealing to both Tetris enthusiasts and retro gaming fans. Additionally, Checkpoint Gaming and Pure Nintendo highlight Tetris Time Warp’s "innovative mechanics" and "leaderboards," respectively, suggesting that the game’s blend of nostalgia and modern twists provides substantial incentive for repeated play. These elements collectively create a rich, varied experience that caters to different player preferences and interests. However, some critics point to limitations that could diminish replay value. Metro GameCentral notes that the game "misses some important versions of the game," which might frustrate purists or those seeking a comprehensive collection. PlayStation Country echoes this, stating that the absence of "some of the best titles" could make the replay value "vary depending on the player’s love for Tetris." Gaming Nexus and Impulsegamer express concerns about repetition, with the former arguing that "multiple similar games may reduce replay value" and the latter suggesting that "similarity of the versions available" could limit engagement. Checkpoint Gaming also mentions the lack of "online multiplayer," which hampers competitive replayability. These critiques indicate that while the game offers a lot, its value may depend on individual expectations and the depth of the included content. Despite these reservations, the overall consensus among critics leans toward a positive assessment of Tetris Forever’s replay value, particularly for fans of the franchise. While some platforms like PC (GameGrin, Gaming Nexus) and consoles (VGC, ZTGD) emphasize the variety and historical depth, others on PS5 and Switch (e.g., Metro GameCentral, Pure Nintendo) acknowledge gaps but still recognize the game’s appeal through its unique modes and nostalgic elements. The game’s ability to blend classic Tetris experiences with modern innovations like Tetris Time Warp and leaderboards creates a compelling case for repeated play, even if certain versions or features fall short. Ultimately, the critical reception suggests that Tetris Forever succeeds in offering a robust, multifaceted experience, though its replayability may be more niche for players seeking entirely new challenges beyond the Tetris canon.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

78%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

22%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment toward Tetris Forever is overwhelmingly positive, with critics highlighting its value as a historical and educational tribute to the iconic franchise. VGC praised it as an "exceptional celebration" of the Tetris series, emphasizing its "definitive telling of its history," while ZTGD called it "highly recommended" for its "historical value and the quality of the games included." GameSpew and Metro GameCentral lauded it as an "educational and entertaining collection" and an "immaculately researched and presented interactive museum," respectively. Push Square and GameCritics noted its "comprehensive and engaging experience" and "preservation of video game history," framing it as a must-play for fans and enthusiasts. The game’s ability to curate a wide array of Tetris titles, from classic to modern iterations, and its focus on storytelling and nostalgia were frequently cited as strengths, with many reviewers appreciating the effort to document the franchise’s cultural impact. Even critics like GameGrin and God is a Geek acknowledged its "fun and educational journey" and "well-executed historical package," underscoring its appeal as a celebration of gaming legacy. However, several critics pointed out notable shortcomings, particularly around the game’s omissions and gameplay limitations. Metro GameCentral and PlayStation Country both criticized the absence of "key versions" of Tetris, with the latter suggesting that the documentary aspect might outweigh the collection itself. Gaming Nexus questioned the "selection of games included," noting an "overemphasis on certain titles," while Impulsegamer warned that the game could "disappoint players seeking a comprehensive collection of variations." Additionally, some reviewers, like PlayStation Country, mentioned issues with the "new Tetris game," implying that modern features or mechanics fell short of expectations. These critiques often centered on the balance between historical significance and practical gameplay, with a few suggesting that alternative experiences, such as Tetris Effect or the franchise’s media adaptations, might offer more entertainment value. The lack of iconic Nintendo-published titles and the perceived gap in variety were recurring points of contention, even as the game’s archival efforts were commended. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among reviewers leans toward appreciation for Tetris Forever as a significant and worthwhile release for dedicated fans and gaming historians. While not without flaws, the game is seen as a "fantastic piece of gaming history" (GameSpew) and a "comprehensive collection" (PlayStation Universe) that successfully captures the evolution of Tetris. The mixed feedback reflects a divide between those who prioritize historical preservation and those who seek a more complete or modernized gameplay experience. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and Gamer Escape emphasized its "essential experience" for enthusiasts, while others, such as Pure Nintendo, acknowledged its "enjoyable experience" despite missing favorites. Ultimately, the reviews suggest that Tetris Forever is a valuable, if imperfect, homage to the franchise, with its strengths in curation and storytelling outweighing its limitations for many, though it may not satisfy all players’ expectations.

TL;DR

Tetris Forever: A nostalgic, educational tribute to the iconic franchise, celebrated for its historical curation and storytelling, but criticized for omissions and limited gameplay, making it a must-have for fans despite flaws.

MONSTER

Reviews

58 reviews found

100

VGC

Xbox Series X

Nov 11, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Tetris Forever is an exceptional celebration of the Tetris series, offering a definitive telling of its history despite the absence of iconic Nintendo-published versions.

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Gamer Escape

Nintendo Switch

Nov 12, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Tetris Forever is a highly recommended compilation for Tetris fans, offering a deep dive into the franchise's history and gameplay experiences.

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GameCritics

Nintendo Switch

Jan 31, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Overall, Tetris Forever is praised for its collection of Tetris titles and its preservation of video game history, making it a significant release for fans and historians alike.

GameSpew

PlayStation 5

Nov 11, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Educational and entertaining collection that every Tetris fan should experience, a fantastic piece of gaming history.

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Push Square

PlayStation 5

Nov 11, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Tetris Forever offers a comprehensive and engaging experience for fans of the franchise, with a focus on history, gameplay, and replay value.

PlayStation Universe

PlayStation 5

Nov 11, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Tetris Forever excels in showcasing the history of Tetris and providing a comprehensive collection of games, despite some limitations in modern gameplay features.

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Pure Nintendo

Nintendo Switch

Nov 14, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Provides a good amount of content for Tetris fans, despite missing some favorite versions, and offers an enjoyable experience with diverse gameplay options and nostalgic stories.

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ZTGD

Xbox Series X

Dec 19, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The collection is highly recommended for its historical value and the quality of the games included, despite some omissions.

God is a Geek

Nov 15, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Despite some omissions, Tetris Forever is praised as a well-executed historical package with loads of content, making it worth picking up.

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GameGrin

Nov 12, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Tetris Forever is a great way to experience the history of Tetris with a mix of classic and new titles, offering a fun and educational journey for fans of the franchise.

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