System: Game Boy

Release date: September 1990

Oi, retro gamers! Strap in for a proper nostalgic bash with Tetris on the Game Boy, the 1989 block-stacking legend that’s still got us humming that catchy tune. This isn’t just a game—it’s a time capsule of pure, pixelated joy. But does it hold up in 2025? Let’s dive into this 8-bit gem and find out if it’s still a banger or just a dusty relic.

Gameplay: Simple, Addictive, Timeless

Tetris is as straightforward as a brick to the noggin: falling blocks (tetrominoes, if you’re feeling fancy) need to be rotated and slotted into place to clear lines. Fill a row, it vanishes. Stack too high, and it’s game over. Sounds basic? That’s the magic. The controls are tighter than a pixelated barrel, with every move feeling snappy and precise. Whether you’re chasing a high score in Mode A or battling the clock in Mode B, the gameplay hooks you like a retro earworm. It’s the kind of addictive that has you muttering, “Just one more go,” at 3 a.m.

The stack? Later levels crank the speed to punishing levels, leaving little room for error. The lack of a hold feature or preview for the next piece (standard in modern versions) can feel brutal. Still, the elegant simplicity and addictive flow keep you hooked like a perfectly placed L-block.

Graphics: Charming in Its Simplicity

Tetris doesn’t need flash. Its monochrome blocks and bare-bones interface are clean and functional, letting you focus on the chaos of stacking. The tetrominoes are clear and distinct, and the little rocket animation when you hit a high score? Pure retro bliss. It’s not Zelda, but it’s not trying to be. Tetris knows its lane and sticks to it like a stubborn I-block.

Sound: That Tune, Though!

If you don’t hum the Tetris theme (Type A, you know the one) while playing, are you even human? That Russian folk banger, “Korobeiniki,” is the star of the show, looping endlessly without ever getting old. The game churns out three iconic tracks, with Type B’s intense vibe perfect for high-speed panic. The sound effects—beeps for rotating, thuds for landing—are spot-on. It’s a masterclass in doing a lot with a little.

Replayability: Forever and a Day

Tetris doesn’t have a story or unlockables, and it doesn’t need ‘em. The drive to beat your mate’s high score or survive one more level is enough to keep you glued to the game. It’s the ultimate pick-up-and-play title—perfect for a quick sesh or a marathon that leaves your thumbs numb. The only limit is your willpower to put it down.

The Retro Looney Verdict

Tetris on the Game Boy is like a perfect chippy tea: simple, satisfying, and always hits the spot. It’s not just a game; it’s a cultural icon that turned a handheld into a must-have. The addictive gameplay, earworm tunes, and no-nonsense vibe make it a classic that still shines in 2025. Sure, it lacks the bells and whistles of modern games, but that’s like moaning a retro arcade cabinet doesn’t have Wi-Fi.