Tetris has seen so many variations of itself that it can almost be called a template at this point. Its humble beginnings on the Gameboy has spawned a legion of sequels from 3D variations to new games featuring popular mascots. It’s no surprise, though, because its simplistic gameplay is both addicting and fun and appeals to the masses like no other game. Tetris Splash literally changes nothing from the original, but adds a soothing aquarium aesthetic and a remixed version of the orginal theme that begs the gamer to simply relax.
If you’re looking for new game modes then you’ll be disappointed to learn there are only two modes: Marathon and 40 Line. Marathon Mode is the classic Tetris everyone knows and loves. Players keep fitting pieces together trying to keep the blocks from reaching the top of the board. 40 Line, like the title suggests, is a time trial mode where players quickly try to break 40 Lines before the time runs out. The real fun is had on Xbox Live where you can play against six other friends in Free-for-all and team play, both of which surprisingly add a lot more intensity to the gameplay.
Gameplay aside, Tetris Splash also serves as an interesting screen saver. You’re able to customize your aquarium with fresh or salt water fish and let it run in the background if you’re looking to have a virtual aquarium. The graphics are good, but nothing to show off your new 1080p LCD with. If you’re looking for the king of micro-transactions then Tetris Splash may be that game. From its initial release there were 13 different types of fish available for purchase online. While it’s cool to watch the fish swim around the tank, we can’t help but wonder what the point of all this is.
There really isn’t anything new to be found in Tetris Splash. At its core it’s the same game we’ve been playing since the days of the original Gameboy. Is that a bad thing? It depends if you need another variation of Tetris for your 360 or not. The online multiplayer is definitely a bonus and the aquarium features are at least soothing to the senses.
- Score: 7
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Tetris is Tetris. Nothing new, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. If updated graphics and a unique aquarium screensaver are enough to make you spend ten bucks, then by all means, go for it.
— J. Thomas
