Welltris

Game review

Welltris, recognized as the first sequel to the iconic Tetris, emerged from the creative minds of Alexey Pajitnov, the original creator of Tetris, alongside Andrei Sgenov in 1989. This game retained the core gameplay concept that made Tetris a global phenomenon—manipulating falling pieces to fit together and form complete layers, thereby clearing space and accumulating points. However, Welltris introduced a novel twist to the familiar formula, transforming the traditional rectangular play area into a four-sided well.

The game's arena is a grid-like structure with walls and a bottom, creating a more complex spatial challenge for players. Pieces fall into this well from the top, and players must skillfully rotate and maneuver them not only on the bottom surface but also along the walls. This innovative approach adds a layer of strategic depth, as pieces can be moved from one wall to another, offering new possibilities for forming complete rows. The objective remains to create solid rows of blocks without any gaps, either horizontally or vertically, at the bottom of the well.

Dubbed as Tetris in three dimensions, Welltris stands out for its pioneering approach to expanding the Tetris concept. It challenges players to think in three dimensions, adding a significant twist to the puzzle-solving process. This added complexity requires players to adapt their strategies, considering not just the base of the well but also how the walls can be used to their advantage.

Welltris not only pays homage to its predecessor's legacy but also carves its own niche in the puzzle game genre with its distinctive gameplay mechanics. Its success and innovation serve as a testament to Alexey Pajitnov's enduring influence in the world of video games, offering players around the world a fresh and engaging puzzle-solving experience.