As a well-seasoned casual gamer with an unhealthy obsession with Pokémon, JRPGs, and life sims, puzzle games are never my go-to for a relaxing night of gaming. However, Tetris Effect: Connected has always been on my radar.
It’s forever on sale at the Nintendo eShop, and whenever my cursor floats above the thumbnail, I’m drawn in by the kaleidoscope of heavenly visuals and stimulating sounds, along with a soundtrack that can be both heart-pumping and breathtaking.
Tetris Effect: Connected is a stunning evolution of the classic Tetris formula, blending mesmerising visuals, a captivating soundtrack and innovative gameplay mechanics.
Available on the Nintendo Switch, this version of Tetris not only brings the timeless block-dropping puzzle action to a portable platform but also enhances it with a unique sensory experience that’s both engaging and visually arresting.
From the moment you launch Tetris Effect: Connected, you’re immersed in a world where sight, sound, and gameplay converge into a harmonious experience.
The game’s presentation is nothing short of spectacular. Each stage is beautifully crafted, featuring dynamic backgrounds that evolve as you play.
The synchronisation of music and sound effects with your actions creates an almost meditative state, making each cleared line feel immensely satisfying.
The musical score ranges from soothing ambient tracks to energetic beats, each piece perfectly complementing the visual theme of the level.
With the constant deluge of sights and sounds, it can be a challenging time sink for some. I recall my first day playing, and I must admit, I had to resort to practice mode because I couldn’t even get through the first level on Journey Mode due to the sensory overload.
That experience made me step away from the game for a while; it was frustrating.
However, Tetris has now become a mini daily ritual for me, where I tackle a few levels each day. Once you’re familiar with a stage, all those distractions just slide off like water off a duck’s back.
Speaking of Journey Mode, this is one of the standout features of this modern tetris; a single-player campaign that takes you through a series of levels, each with its own unique aesthetic and soundtrack.
The difficulty gradually increases, offering a balanced challenge that keeps you engaged without becoming frustrating.
There is also a new “Zone” mechanic which allows you to stop time and clear multiple lines at once, adding a strategic layer to the classic gameplay.
The Switch version of the game takes full advantage of the console’s portability. The vibrant OLED screen (if you’re using the OLED model) and excellent sound quality make it an ideal platform.
Whether you’re playing in handheld mode or docked on a television, the game looks and sounds fantastic. The controls are responsive and intuitive, ensuring smooth and precise gameplay.
Multiplayer is where Tetris Effect: Connected truly shines. The “Connected” mode allows you to team up with two other players to take on AI-controlled bosses, adding a cooperative twist to the classic gameplay. This mode requires communication and teamwork, as you share a collective board and must work together to clear lines and defeat the boss. It’s a refreshing take on multiplayer Tetris that emphasises cooperation over competition.
For those who prefer traditional competitive play, there are also modes where you can go head-to-head with other players online.
The game also includes various other modes that cater to different playstyles. The “Effect Modes” offer a wide range of gameplay variations, from relaxing sessions where you can play at your own pace to intense challenges that test your skills.
These modes provide a great way to unwind or to push yourself, depending on what you’re in the mood for.
For now, my favourite stage is Ritual Passion, where Tetris blocks blaze with fire and humanoid figures engulfed in flames dance around a floating inferno.
The soundtrack is almost meditative, with fast beats and a South Asian-inspired melody that adds to the hypnotic experience. If you had told me I’d enjoy a puzzle game this much, let alone Tetris, I would have laughed in your face.
Tetris Effect: Connected on the Nintendo Switch is more than just a puzzle game; it’s an experience. The stunning visuals, immersive sound design, and innovative gameplay mechanics make it stand out from other Tetris titles.
It honours the legacy of the original game while pushing the boundaries of what Tetris can be. – Wardi Wasil
