Tetris Attack

Tetris Attack is a puzzle game developed for Nintendo by Intelligent Systems, released for the Game Boy in 1996 as well. In the West the game was rebranded under the Tetris name, even though its real basis is the Japanese game Panel de Pon - instead of falling blocks, the player swaps pairs of colored panels horizontally within a column that slowly scrolls upward, aiming to line up three or more matching panels side by side or stacked so they disappear before the column reaches the top of the screen. The game offers a time-attack mode as well as a classic endless mode, and via link cable also a two-player duel, where successful combos turn into troublesome panels for the opponent.

On the Game Boy the game received clear, color-differentiated panel graphics that remain easy to read even on the monochrome display thanks to the distinct patterns of each panel type. Fast, fluid controls combined with a well-thought-out combo and chain system made it one of the most technically polished puzzle games on the console. The music is energetic and complements the rising tension as the column of panels approaches the top of the playing field, and it stays enjoyable even after hours of play thanks to the variety of melodies across the different game modes.

Tetris Attack was very well received at launch as one of the most polished puzzle titles of its generation, and it is still considered one of the best representatives of the sliding-block genre, surpassing many of its contemporaries in depth. Its combo and chain system influenced later puzzle games and the competitive scene around them. On the Game Boy it remains a playable and inventively designed title well worth trying even after all these years, not least because its Japanese basis, Panel de Pon, later inspired further sequels on other Nintendo platforms.