Nintendo’s first huge online game for the Switch was always going to be Smash Bros. Ultimate, but its first viral hit might be a free download battle royale game. But it’s not the one you’re thinking.
On Wednesday, Nintendo announced Tetris 99, a battle royale version of the classic arcade game that for many gamers was their first entry into the medium. But Tetris 99 is a lot more like Fortnite than you’d expect a game that’s been copied and ported to every system imaginable because of its simplicity. For starters, 99 gamers battle for supremacy in block-stacking.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BkltybqKrnc
No, really. This tweet is actually a lot more accurate than you’d think before you boot it up.
Sony: Let's use Tetris as a foundation for a chill, relaxing experience that leaves everyone feeling good about themselves and humanity
NIntendo: *tosses a single T-block into the middle of the crowd* only one of you fucks gets to leave this room— It's Luke! (@SSJSpeedRacer) February 13, 2019
Here’s the official explanation of the game on Nintendo’s website.
In large-scale, 99-player battles, it’ll take speed, skill, and strategy to knock out the competition and become the last player standing. You can target opponents by sending them Garbage Blocks, but be careful…your rivals can target you back! Defeat opponents to acquire KO badges that may give you the advantage on future attacks. Survive the onslaught and look forward to upcoming online events!
But that’s it as far as instruction. There’s no player guide, leading to some making one up on Reddit based on their own experiences with the gameplay. Which is, if you believe a completely compelled and also bewildered internet, absolute madness. The most interesting thing about this version of Tetris is that it is not for those that are patient. You have to work quickly, or you’re toast.
Pardon #Tetris99 !!? pic.twitter.com/W4Yi3qqYNo
— Ardos (@Ardos12) February 14, 2019
Basically, that person got so many garbage blocks sent their way that they never stood a chance. They key, it seems, is to send off your own blocks, be the person that does the KOing, and then power up your attacks to continue knocking folks out. Or something. This is a bit better work by a user who shared video of it on Thursday night.
Such an insane clear!!! #Tetris99 pic.twitter.com/QeCjkKupJQ
— m (@mros3748) February 14, 2019
Basically, people on Twitter are freaking out about the gameplay and how frantic they’ve made what could already be a very hectic game.
When you're top 20 in Tetris 99 pic.twitter.com/zOOQYfF7oa
— Danny Molina (HR of Swag) (@DannyMolinaaa) February 14, 2019
https://twitter.com/OneMagicalIvory/status/1096142279088226304
Me just trying to play Tetris 99:
Everybody in the room: pic.twitter.com/9Mv6Q2sNFr
— Temperance (@AoN_Gemini) February 14, 2019
Me, walking into the room: "Hey guys whats u–"
Everyone else: *immediately draws gun simultaneously* #Tetris99 pic.twitter.com/21fy9tbzHB— Lunar (@lunarhalo24) February 14, 2019
https://twitter.com/The_One_Gio/status/1096149662208159745
Some of these clears are downright inspirational.
Never give up! Trust your instincts! #Tetris99 pic.twitter.com/aeyLlqFlqv
— Not That Chris (@MrSmartGuyB8) February 14, 2019
Seriously, this game looks extremely addictive and easy to get lost in. The teens may still be dabbing all over Fortnite, but if you have a Switch and want a bit of nostalgia-tinged battle royale action, Tetris 99 is the easiest free purchase you’ll make all year.