Tetris 2 (1993 video game)
Tetris 2, released in 1993, is a puzzle video game developed by Bullet-Proof Software. While bearing the "Tetris" name, it diverges significantly from the gameplay of the original Tetris. Instead of clearing lines by filling them with blocks, Tetris 2 focuses on clearing blocks by matching colors.
The core gameplay mechanic involves dropping Tetriminoes (shapes composed of four blocks) of varying colors into a pit. The objective is to strategically place the Tetriminoes so that four or more blocks of the same color are adjacent to each other, either horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. When this occurs, the matching blocks disappear, clearing space and potentially causing chain reactions if the falling blocks also create color matches.
Tetris 2 typically features a variety of game modes, including an endless mode where the game continues until the pit fills up, and a stage-based mode with specific objectives for each level. Many versions also include a versus mode where two players compete to clear their respective pits the fastest, with cleared blocks potentially adding garbage blocks to the opponent's pit.
The game was released on various platforms, including the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), Game Boy, and arcade systems. It is considered a spin-off title in the Tetris franchise due to its distinct gameplay mechanics. While commercially successful, Tetris 2 is not as widely celebrated as the original Tetris due to its significant departure from the established formula.