CRITIK

Tetris Forever

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

2024

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

AvailableNov 12, 2024

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

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

Critik Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

100%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of critics praised the Story of Tetris Forever for its extensive and fascinating storytelling about the history of Tetris. Critics like VGC and PlayStation Country appreciated the inclusion of first-hand accounts from key players like Alexey Pajitnov and Henk Rogers, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative. GameSpew and Gamer Escape highlighted the interactive documentary format used to tell the story, incorporating quotes, photographs, and interviews to engage players in the history of Tetris. Push Square and PlayStation Universe also commended the game for focusing on the historical journey of Tetris, showcasing its evolution and significance in the gaming industry. While the overall sentiment towards the Story of Tetris Forever was overwhelmingly positive, there were no significant negative opinions expressed by the critics. However, it would have been beneficial to include a more critical analysis of the licensing battles and controversies surrounding Tetris, as mentioned by Metro GameCentral. Providing a more in-depth exploration of the challenges faced during the game's development and the legal issues it encountered could have added another layer of complexity to the storytelling. In conclusion, the Story of Tetris Forever received high praise from the majority of critics for its in-depth and informative exploration of Tetris' history. By incorporating first-hand accounts, interactive elements, and a focus on the game's evolution, the storytelling was engaging and captivating for players. While there were no major criticisms raised by the critics, a more critical examination of the challenges and controversies surrounding Tetris could have further enriched the narrative. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the Story of Tetris Forever is a must-play for fans of the iconic puzzle game, offering a comprehensive and detailed look at its origins and impact on the gaming industry.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics laud the Story of Tetris Forever for its captivating storytelling and use of first-hand accounts, interactive elements, and historical focus. While no major criticisms were noted, some suggest a deeper dive into Tetris' licensing battles for added complexity. Overall, a must-play for Tetris fans offering a detailed look at its history and industry impact.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

78%

Mixed (50-79)

22%

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of critics praised the gameplay of Tetris Forever for offering a diverse selection of Tetris games and new modes, showcasing the game's versatility and ability to cater to different playstyles. Critics like VGC and Pure Nintendo highlighted the inclusion of unique titles such as Tetris Time Warp, which added a fresh spin on the classic gameplay, providing players with new challenges and experiences. Gamer Escape and Pure Nintendo also appreciated the variety of gameplay experiences from different Tetris versions, including modern mechanics like t-spins and rewind features, enhancing the overall gameplay depth and enjoyment. However, some critics, like PlayStation Country, pointed out issues with Tetris Time Warp's mechanics, indicating that while the gameplay was addictive and enjoyable overall, there were certain aspects that could be improved or refined for a smoother experience. This feedback suggests that while Tetris Forever excelled in offering a wide range of gameplay options, there might be room for fine-tuning specific game modes to enhance player satisfaction further. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the gameplay of Tetris Forever. The game's ability to provide a diverse selection of Tetris games, including both classic versions and new modes like Tetris Time Warp, was widely appreciated for catering to a broad audience and offering a mix of nostalgia and innovation. Critics like GameSpew, Metro GameCentral, and Push Square highlighted the game's variety of gameplay experiences and historical context, showcasing Tetris Forever as a comprehensive package that celebrates the iconic franchise while introducing new elements to keep players engaged. Despite some minor criticisms, the overall sentiment is that Tetris Forever delivers a highly enjoyable and engaging gameplay experience that resonates with fans of the series and newcomers alike.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics overwhelmingly praise Tetris Forever for its diverse selection of games and modes, catering to various playstyles and offering new challenges. While some critics noted minor issues with certain mechanics, the game's overall versatility and innovative features received high acclaim. Tetris Forever is hailed as a comprehensive and engaging package that combines nostalgia with modern gameplay elements, appealing to both fans and newcomers.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

44%

Mixed (50-79)

56%

Negative (0-49)

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

The critics unanimously praise the Graphics and Visual Design of Tetris Forever for its high-quality images, attention to detail, and nostalgic appeal. VGC commends the excellent visual design, highlighting the recreation of older versions of Tetris. GameSpew appreciates the mix of new and archive footage beautifully presented in timelines. Push Square applauds the aesthetically pleasing virtual museum with high-resolution images showcasing the evolution of the Tetris series. PlayStation Country and Pure Nintendo both mention the nostalgic and varied visuals, with changing background imagery and classic graphic styles adding to the appeal. The inclusion of original box art, advertisements, and manuals, as noted by Gamer Escape, further enhances the overall visual experience. On the downside, some critics point out shortcomings in the visual presentation of Tetris Forever. PlayStation Universe notes that while there is a varied visual presentation across different Tetris games, some fall short in comparison to modern standards. GameGrin mentions that some older versions have visuals that may not hold up well, despite providing options to adjust screen modes and apply retro filters for a nostalgic experience. Pure Nintendo also highlights the absence of some favorite versions of Tetris, indicating a potential lack of comprehensive visual representation across the game's history. Overall, the critics' consensus on the Graphics and Visual Design of Tetris Forever is overwhelmingly positive. The game successfully captures the essence of Tetris through its high-quality images, attention to detail, and nostalgic appeal, as highlighted by VGC, GameSpew, and Push Square. While there are minor criticisms regarding certain visual aspects from PlayStation Universe, GameGrin, and Pure Nintendo, the overall sentiment leans towards a well-executed visual presentation that effectively showcases the evolution and history of the iconic Tetris series.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics rave about the stunning Graphics and Visual Design of Tetris Forever, praising its high-quality images, nostalgic charm, and attention to detail. While some mention minor flaws like outdated visuals and missing versions, overall, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive. The game impressively captures the essence of Tetris through its visually appealing virtual museum and a mix of new and archive footage, earning acclaim from VGC, GameSpew, and Push Square.

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

music and sound design

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Voice Acting

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voice acting

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Technical Performance

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technical performance

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Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

67%

Mixed (50-79)

33%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the Replay Value of Tetris Forever are quite positive overall. Critics like VGC, GameSpew, and Push Square highlight the diverse selection of games and new game modes like Tetris Time Warp, which contribute to high replay value. VGC specifically mentions the interactive museum format as a factor that enhances the replayability of the game. GameSpew and Push Square appreciate the unique experiences offered by Tetris Time Warp, with GameSpew also noting the inclusion of multiple Tetris versions to keep players engaged. Additionally, Gamer Escape and Pure Nintendo emphasize the variety of Tetris titles available, historical gameplay experiences, and the modern take on Tetris Time Warp, all contributing to the game's replay value. On the downside, critics like Metro GameCentral, PlayStation Country, and Pure Nintendo point out some limitations that may affect the replay value of Tetris Forever. Metro GameCentral mentions the absence of some important versions of the game, which could impact the overall experience for players looking for specific iterations of Tetris. PlayStation Country notes that the curated collection lacks some of the best titles, potentially leading to varying replay value depending on the player's affinity for Tetris. Pure Nintendo also highlights that while the new Tetris Time Warp mode and leaderboards offer replay value, older versions of Tetris included in the game may not attract as many replays from players. Despite some criticisms, the overall consensus among the critics is that Tetris Forever offers a rich and diverse experience for fans of the franchise, with plenty of content to explore and enjoy. Critics like PlayStation Universe and GameGrin appreciate the exhaustive library of Tetris games, historical content, multiplayer modes, and challenges that cater to Tetris enthusiasts and fans of the franchise. While there are differing opinions on the inclusion of certain versions and the impact on replay value, the general sentiment is positive, with the game being praised for its efforts to provide a varied and engaging Tetris experience for players across different platforms.

TL;DR

replay value

Critics generally praise Tetris Forever for its diverse selection of games and new modes, like Tetris Time Warp, enhancing replay value. Some critics mention limitations such as missing important versions of the game, impacting the overall experience. Despite mixed opinions on certain aspects, the consensus is that Tetris Forever offers a rich and varied experience for fans of the franchise, with plenty of content to enjoy and explore.

Overall Verdict

CRITIK

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Critik Score

Positive (80-100)

78%

Mixed (50-79)

22%

Negative (0-49)

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

Tetris Forever has garnered praise from multiple critics for its celebration of the Tetris series' history and comprehensive collection of games. Critics like VGC and Push Square highlight the game's exceptional portrayal of Tetris' legacy, offering an engaging experience for fans. GameSpew and Gamer Escape also commend the educational and nostalgic value of the compilation, emphasizing its appeal to Tetris enthusiasts. Pure Nintendo appreciates the diverse gameplay options and enjoyable experiences provided, making it a recommended choice for fans on the Nintendo Switch platform. However, some critics, such as Metro GameCentral and PlayStation Country, express concerns about the absence of key versions of Tetris and issues with the new Tetris game included in Tetris Forever. Metro GameCentral suggests alternative forms of entertainment for a more engaging experience, indicating a lack of complete satisfaction with the game collection. PlayStation Country emphasizes the documentary aspect over the gameplay, pointing out that the missing top Tetris titles and gameplay issues hinder the overall enjoyment of the compilation. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards Tetris Forever being a valuable addition to the Tetris franchise, with a strong focus on history, gameplay, and educational value. While some critics raise concerns about missing key versions and gameplay issues, the majority appreciate the game's celebration of Tetris' legacy and the diverse collection of titles it offers. Tetris Forever seems to strike a balance between providing a nostalgic journey for fans, as noted by GameGrin, and offering an educational and entertaining experience, as highlighted by GameSpew and Gamer Escape. Ultimately, the game appears to be a worthwhile choice for Tetris enthusiasts looking to delve into the history and gameplay of the iconic puzzle game.

TL;DR

Tetris Forever receives accolades for honoring Tetris history and offering a vast game collection, praised by critics for its engaging experience and nostalgic value. While some critics express concerns about missing key versions and gameplay issues, the consensus leans towards Tetris Forever being a valuable addition to the franchise, striking a balance between nostalgia and education. A recommended choice for Tetris fans on the Nintendo Switch platform.

CRITIK

Reviews

48 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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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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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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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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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.

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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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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Metro GameCentral

PlayStation 5

Nov 12, 2024

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

Tetris Forever is praised as an immaculately researched and presented interactive museum, but criticized for missing key versions of the game. The review suggests that for sheer entertainment value, watching the movie or reading the book and playing Tetris Effect might be better options.

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PlayStation Country

PlayStation 5

Nov 14, 2024

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

A documentary piece is more valuable than the game collection. While there are interesting games, the absence of top Tetris titles and issues with the new Tetris game impact the overall experience.

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100

Player 2

PlayStation 5

Nov 11, 2024

Summary and quote unavailable.

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