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The Skinny: Sometime this month, a brand new version of Tetris will hit Nintendo's WiiWare store for a mere 1200 points. At this point we've all bought, downloaded or even programmed our own version of Alexey Pajitnov's timeless game. So why bother dishing out the dough for
Tetris Party? Here are five things you should know before downloading.
1. Bring a friend.
Tetris Party isn't for loners. Hudson Soft has cooked up a ton of variations (18 in all) on the classic theme that capitalize on the Wii's reputation as a social gaming hub. On-the-couch games can accommodate up to four wagglers, while online matches seat up to six.
2.
Tetris Party's imaginative multiplayer riffs on the classic game are really cool. Traditional, head-to-head competitive contests are supplemented with imaginative new wrinkles. My favorite was "Duel Spaces" -- a turn-based, two-player game where opponents attempt to block off negative space
à la Qix.
3. Feeling a bit carpal? Just like
the new Raving Rabbids game,
Tetris Party can be played with your butt. Wii Balance Board owners can rock their bodies in levels tuned specially for body tilting. These simplified puzzles double as a great intro to the game for very young kids.
4.
The hardcore haven't been ignored. Remember the infinite spin exploit that pretty much broke
Tetris DS? It's gone. Once grounded, you've only got a handful of spins in your Tetromino before it settles for good. Those looking to hone their high-level skills will dig "Stage Racer," a contest that forces the player to navigate a single Tetromino through an increasingly narrow obstacle course.
5. Sadly,
none of these awesome new ways to play Tetris can be taken online. Only the familiar "Vs." are available for play via Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection. The game supports six-player match-ups, player searching and friend rooms for these old-school battles. It's a bummer all of
Tetris Party's novel multiplayer modes didn't make the cut.
The Verdict: Who are we kidding? There's no resisting Tetris.
This preview is based on hands-on time with the game at the Nintendo 2008 Media Summit.