13-year-old meets Tetris creator after beating original game

[@4thoseabout2r0ck4]

He unlocked the true ending when Alexey Pajitnov appeared on his screen. Congratulations Willis.

[@SoyAntonioGaming]

Next step is to get as far as possible without causing the crash to happen.

[@BlankaCentral]

ur actauly red, thers a name for that and its something red/. but ya u could possibly get to lvl 250 or something like that. theres a video that breaks all this down, u cna prob find it if u type in 3 endings to tetris or something@@SoyAntonioGaming

[@wesdizz6297]

Best comment!

[@prithvirajsrinivasan1077]

Exactly!!!!

[@paulhart7739]

I don’t think they programmed the NES version, which is the one he was playing.. so they would not have actually known how the game would react to that high score

[@llXchonll]

Those Tetris creators are so awesome for doing that for this kid.

[@BlueJazzBoyNZ]

Great response from Tetris creators

[@MrVariant]

Oh definitely, let alone they didn't get harassed when everyone boycotted Russia. 2:00 Full W and the apple tetris movie was cool too as well as dad tribute RIP.

[@SkitBitProduction]

​@@MrVariantthe Creator moved to America long time ago

[@MrVariant]

@SkitBitProduction yes which I've seen people project civil wars when something is trending, like China, Russia, or Israel/Palestine instead of letting those morons fight each other overseas.

[@xgtwb6473]

​@@MrVariantonly betas and morons would do that

[@DJayAce4]

For y'all that don't know. His dad died like only a week or two before he achieved this. What a special and uplifting moment during a really rocky time. Him and his family deserves nothing but the best from this. His dad would definitely be proud, the achievement is unreal.

[@purefunguy]

God is real

[@ItzKamo]

@@purefunguyNo, not really.

[@xKamiiii]

​@@ItzKamoyes, really.

[@michaelmcfarland1716]

​@npmmarkteting there is money to be made. Look into professional gaming.

[@notmo.]

​@@xKamiiiiprove it. i'm waiting.

[@madmike987655]

I don't think most people fully appreciate how hard a task this would have been, and no less, by a 13 year old too. This kid will remember this moment forever

[@BenSuzi1980]

i did that when i was 10 years old after 1 week of having the game.-. he didnt finish it, he had a crahs, prob corrupted module or, like thousands had it before but didnt went to CNN and the NYT lol

[@BMoney-tnts]

13 has nothing to do with it.

[@Dukstless]

@@BenSuzi1980 cool story, now show video proof of you doing that

[@cannedsquasher5923]

@@BenSuzi1980 Yeah bro and when I was 5 I created a full-sized working Lambo from scrap in my garbage.

[@Dan-qb9xk]

​@@BenSuzi1980we get it your jealous

[@r3gret2079]

See this is how you do a news segment about this situation, praise the kid, not tear him down and insult him. Major respect!

[@JACpotatos]

Except everyone except the kid was completely clueless about everything

[@jrviade85]

@@JACpotatos😂😂😂

[@taipao6661]

?What happened?

[@Zay4Life]

@@taipao6661sky news was being an a** hole. Look it it up it’s all over

[@krgazgenix746]

@FoxHoundMulderAustrian? It’s UK

[@marvintran7813]

“His reaction is like if he’s won the lottery.” Look… A lot of people have won the lottery, but so far only 1 person has ever beaten Tetris. Congratulations kid! 🎈🎊🎉 You did great!!

[@pepkin88]

"...but so far only 1 person has ever beaten Tetris." Fractal and PixelAndy did this too, but yeah, Blue Scuti was the first.

[@BarretinaFerrea]

still less people than humans in the moon@@pepkin88

[@iamsiley]

@@pepkin88 3 people in nearly 35 years, or... a ratio way higher then that for the lottery which I am too lazy to research

[@nackedsnake1]

Not sure why so many people didn't get it. The lady said " "His reaction is like if he’s won the lottery, BUT crushing Tetris takes more than just luck."

[@Linkale_]

@@nackedsnake1 people like having something to react against and if they don't have they'll make it up

[@thevickypollardfan1]

What a contrast to the other reporter on Sky News who told him "to go outside". They're actually acknowledging how big of a thing it is even if they don't understand it but they try to. Rewarding him by arranging a video call with the original creators is also such a nice thing and the kid will remember this for the rest of his life. His confidence is skyrocketing right now.

[@Wolta]

@-cvq That's fair, but you don't tell someone that after achieving something that really doesn't hurt anyone. Especially not as someone whose job it is to report the news, not give their own snarky comments to it. You understand how time and place matters right?

[@thevickypollardfan1]

@-cvq Generally speaking yes. But she is a news reporter and her job is to report, not to judge. She is simply not in a position to say that because it's condescending in the moment. I think it's important to praise children's accomplishments and passions so they can actually develop a personality. And it's not like Tetris and going outside exclude each other. You can have both.

[@owenc.q8514]

​@-cvqHave you seen what kids do nowadays this is far better and the reporter say it to make fun of him a 13 year old

[@caseystrange]

@thevickypollardfan17 Give it five years. Maybe 10.

[@MrVariant]

Yeah that woman has no idea how valuable a fandom website is. There's so much obscure information you cannot get from a normal watch/playthrough that it's a virtual museum. There's so much good that can come from video games (like this or speed runs) despite mean tweets, review hype trains that conceal flaws or the companies being greedy by poor testing, lazy hardware upgrades or ripoff dlc. 3:30 nice lady admitted to not knowing games and calling controller a remote lol kinda like ma saying everything is nintendo 😂

[@GregoryWhite-g8x]

I'm a piano player and there have been many pieces written that were considered impossible to play at the time, by Rachmaninoff for example, that have since become part of the repertoire. Humans are really amazing and I have absolutely nothing but respect for this boy.

[@expression3639]

And those pieces are now played by very dedicated children, too.

[@izmizzle]

Some reporters would value those buttons more than an nes controller, apparently

[@deuce2293]

nothing but

[@abstract5249]

There are also kids who can shred guitar solos that the original artists themselves never actually played perfectly, but edited and polished in a studio. There are also singers who can sing songs once thought impossible to sing, like the Diva song from the sci-fi movie "Fifth Element." Humans are amazing.

[@pseud420]

After seeing "the other" broadcast where the anchor said he should go outside, and dismissed his achievement, this is an incredibly refreshing segment to watch. Willis knew exactly who he was talking to when they showed up on screen; you could see his eyes light up before they introduced themselves! What a moment, one he'll never forget. A beautiful dedication to his father who passed away, too; it's really heartwarming.

[@pseud420]

@@GenghisClaus Right? You might even say "Being a Sky News broadcaster is not a life goal"

[@MichaelPohoreski]

The News reporter job is literally to report _other_ people's achievements, not provide their $0.02 commentary.

[@biffleslegit8985]

idk those “he acted like he won the lottery” and “his over the top reaction” remarks seemed like low key shade

[@pseud420]

@@MichaelPohoreski Yeah exactly, it's typical on their show to slip in their own personal opinions; it's not like anyone thinks Sky News do actual journalism anymore ...

[@pseud420]

@@GenghisClaus Haha I'm not sure going as far as she has in life would be going far in a particularly good direction 😂 I bet she's called Karen and everything.

[@makytondr8607]

I don’t think people understand how huge this is. Tetris was literally designed to be unbeatable, and it remained that way for 4 decades. Overcoming the game’s difficulty and continuing to play on so long that it breaks the game is just insane. Good job Scuti!

[@robertd4851]

the kid has a lot of time on to invest on this, the only huge thing is that for him there was nothing better to do

[@qqq2307]

@@robertd4851Lol and what were you doing at 13? Wetting diapers?

[@raccoonchild]

​@@robertd4851 Salty he's not twerking for you on TikTok?

[@AWriterWandering]

Technically Tetris itself is still unbeatable. It’s just the NES version specifically, because of memory limitations, will eventually crash if you reach a high enough level.

[@jennifernorman9655]

That absolutely was not an "over the top reaction". His reaction was entirely reasonable. Congratulations to the young man and well done for meeting Alexei!

[@stormkendricks6413]

That's what I was thinking

[@Darren-f9z]

me too I'm super happy for him

[@alexanderpaige9571]

I agree, but they were extremely nice in every other way. Especially compared to that sky-news reporter

[@mogdor]

I know right? Whenever I see my nephew playing video games he's always reacting like this lol

[@thenorseguy2495]

Most gamers have reacted like that for far less achievements. Me too

[@pyroronnie2473]

Nothing but pure respect for this kid and to the devs who showed up to congratulate him. Rest in peace to his dad, bet he is proud of his son from where he is at

[@patrickstoute4085]

Its only a game .. no,it isnt. This boy proved every human aspect of not giving up and trying to achieve his goal.The skills& effort .. mindblowing. May his determination be an inspiration for others.much♥️& respect for him and his mom.deep respect 🫂

[@OpenGL4ever]

@star3torres You have no clue what this young human has achieved. He is world champion now.

[@deuce2293]

nothing but

[@iamjesus8fearme]

@star3torres this comment just shows how close-minded you are

[@herlandercarvalho]

I was heart broken learning he lost his father recently... He was so young. I even started to tear up! Congratulations for your achievement Willis!

[@Luvcatz88]

It makes the fact an anchor on another network bullied him even worse 😭 this boy is making his dad proud

[@ct5625]

I love the added information at the end, clearly directed at a certain mean woman at Sky News. This is how you present a feel good story, no bullying and no belittling. Well done Willis, seeing this story makes me want to go and look for my old Game Boy in the attic.

[@alvallac2171]

*done, Willis. Seeing (to fix both your missing comma and your comma splice run-on)

[@OB.x]

Yeah this is what we call reporting. Sky news just decided Hey, this is a funny tag line. I'm going to make a joke. There's no contacts at all in the sky news report. But this report explains why it's such a big deal for really anyone.

[@OB.x]

​@@alvallac2171Does it really matter like? Do you have nothing better to do than to correct people's grammar? We all understood what they meant.

[@kidrobot.]

can you show me a feel good story with belittling or bullying?

[@Supermrloo]

@@OB.x replying to them makes them think they're winning. best to ignore

[@williams6334]

Billy Mitchell, this is what an actual, legitimately earned world record looks like. Well done Willis! And great to see Alexey too :)

[@psytrancedj]

Well said! Billy Mitchell isn't worthy of holding Willis' controller.

[@YoureTypicalDumbass]

Hope you're ready for a juicy Billy Mitchell lawsuit

[@KamenRiderGumo]

@@psytrancedj Mitchell isn't even worthy to hear this kid's NAME.

[@dangerousdays2052]

Wrong. Billy Mitchell was exonerated by Twin Galaxies years ago and had his records reinstated.

[@DylanYoshi]

@@dangerousdays2052 Twin Galaxies never "exonerated" him and his records were not restored. The only company that restored his records was Guiness, who didn't want to have to deal with his BS lawsuits. Twin Galaxies is still deep in a lawsuit with Billy Mitchell, and he's been caught lying multiple times in his deposition, so it's unlikely he'll win. Billy is a proven cheater.

[@showaker4755]

Take notes Sky News. This is how you SHOULD react to someone's personal achievements instead of insulting them.

[@Peca.kaspic]

Well the Sky news is like the Telegraph. They like to create fear and threats. Nobody would read their papers if everything everywhere was all right

[@kreuner11]

oh, what did they do?

[@JenardJose]

​@@kreuner11 Heard that one of the news reporters there told the kid to go outside and said that beating tetris ain't a life goal

[@Sg190th]

@@kreuner11 Some geezer mocked the child for thriving in life.

[@tabchanzero8229]

@@kreuner11 "Step away from the screen, go outside, get some fresh air. Beating Tetris is not a life goal."

[@3milio0o95]

It took almost 40 years & well over 500 million have played it but only ONE person has ever made it to the end. This is an incredible achievement that will go down in the record books.

[@scottythegreat1]

There really is no end to Tetris. This is a programming bug in one port of the game (in this case, the NES). Its still an achievement to get this far, but still, Im sure there are programming bugs that make other versions of Tetris crash. The question is where?

[@RanmaruRei]

​​​@@scottythegreat1 Actually, the game has some kind of the end, IMHO. After completion level 255, the game returns to level 0. It's not intended, of course, it's just how the code works. As I know triggering this is the next goal of the community. It will be insane, because a player will have to avoid crashing the game. And level 235 is 810 lines instead of usual 10.

[@BowsettesFury]

That’s Tetris Rebirth when it rolls back to zero.

[@NotAGoodUsername360]

Two now, there was another dude who he was in a race for it. He technically now holds the NES Tetris "Speedrun" as he was able to hit the killscreen faster than Scuti could.

[@42smash36]

This is the most worthless achievement in the last 40 years tbh, tetris? really?

[@tomfoolery4024]

Nothing but respect for him. Don't listen to the haters.

[@alyasVictorio]

Yeah! Ignore them, specially from Sky News anchor who mock that boy

[@AusticHardOfHearingSinger]

Exactly.

[@achannelhasnoname5182]

I think the truth lies somewhere in the middle. While it's definitely an amazing achievement, he might regret later, spending all of his childhood on a game.

[@tbcalex]

@@achannelhasnoname5182 what a stupid comment, why would someone regret doing something they love?

[@romrommi]

​@@achannelhasnoname5182lmao regretting things for having fun? You're crazy

[@graptakular]

That's really cool they got the creator of Tetris to acknowledge his achievement and congratulate him personally. This news piece did not go into more detail, but being able to accomplish what he did was very difficult as it required reaction speed, concentration and stamina (his record win took 40 minutes to do). Also, as a father myself, it hits even harder knowing his personal situation as well.

[@devnol]

Honestly for mainstream tv news this was pretty good reporting, props to whoever did the research for this. They also have a limited time on air mind you so they couldn't go into much detail anyway.

[@fredflintstone5356]

@@devnolnow watch them go back to running cover for the Bidens, Clinton’s, Epstine, and slander Trump as much as possible.

[@gausly]

nah cuz they just arent in the gaming scene. those of us that generally know a lot about gaming as a whole and have grown up with it, know that this kid is HIM. like thats a ridiculously monumental achievement, he was 1/~500,000,000 players and the first in almost 40 years to accomplish such a feat.

[@emirlsanchos6302]

He gave hints of the strain it required, like wanting to pass out and his fingers going numb. To still come out of the marathon, none the worse for wear is quite an achievement.

[@carlosprieto2231]

Exactly they didn’t go into any detail, that lady was like he uses the rolling technique, it’s the way he holds the controller. My lady. Elaborate on how. This is important for the news lol. Research despite not being a gamer.

[@Qwoll]

These news casters KNOW about the news anchor that slandered that kid. They are doing the exact opposite on purpose, even making a point to mention that he doesnt overplay, and goes out and rides his bike, and you know, I LOVE IT. I am here for it.

[@gunnshell]

Finally a feel good story. Congrats young man!

[@deltafire12]

Now that’s a feel good story!

[@Thewhiteandorange]

so wholesome

[@TheyCallMeDio]

Wayyy better than whatever Sky News did That anchor needs some therapy

[@AngryCanadian1971]

HAIL that guy eh?

[@DS-ld8ns]

focus bro. focus.@@TheyCallMeDio

[@Crzypengu]

For those that don't know, his tv setup is a Sony Trinitron PVM which is one of the best TVs to use for retro gaming due to having the lowest input lag you can get. This kid had the perfect setup for this game.

[@gristen]

woah i knew the story but didnt know he had a top tier set up. you can really tell this kid has genuine love for the game and the competitive scene. cant wait to see how much further he can go

[@Crzypengu]

@@gristen its really good, I use one a lot at Melee tournaments because it feels better than other consumer crts. There's a community of people that collect these PVMs online.

[@jennifernorman9655]

OMG I have an old Sony Trinitron. Didn't realise it was useful for retro gaming. Thanks for sharing that info 😊

[@vectrex28]

Yeah that kid knows his stuff, I have a PVM 1454Q and a 20L5 myself. Nowhere near as good at Tetris though...

[@StrokedGT]

They're good TV's, but you likely don't have a PVM. ​@@jennifernorman9655

[@malkav0488]

As a veteran gamer, I find it very nice that they fetched these 2 historical fellows for that moment, a piece of history meeting a new piece of history. Heartwarming. This is how you deal with a wholesome piece of news.

[@jimtNCUSA]

Hello brethren. It's surprisingly deeper than that. The boy lost his father, yes, but Alexy lost his son a few years ago in an accident. ❤

[@Chef-zz4jh]

​@jimtNCUSA God working through creation, He is real, you can see that He cares about humanity through moments like these. The Ultimate Reality "Logos" became flesh in Jesus Christ and then ascended to highest axiom of reality as a Man so that we can all be redeemed

[@exclamationpointman3852]

Yes absolutely. They made games more for my Era so it's amazing to see what a universe gaming has become and that respect is given to these men and old school games.

[@ChristinaFromYoutube]

Those men were so sweet. They were genuinely impressed and I love it

[@jeskvell3254]

🥺🥺🥺🥺

[@SSJRadioBluth]

Dude is a legend already at 13. Way to go Dad. You left us a good one. Everybody keep an eye out for this legend.

[@andyc6542]

For dedicating so much time to playing a video game to the point of obsession. Yeah - real ‘legend’ there..🙄🙄🙄

[@ev1a_]

​​How old are ya 32? Plus he got money for this, i mean he's now more famous then u will ever be. he's making money for this and what are you doing? Hating on a child that makes 20X ur salary? Way to go you. ​@@andyc6542

[@omorisballs]

@@andyc6542are you that news anchor

[@andyc6542]

@@omorisballs yes, I'm that female news anchor. Smh. Just saying that obsessing over Tetris for the amount of time he did does NOT make this kid a legend at all.

[@nurulnajmaini3869]

hes just a kid@@andyc6542

[@darrylferguson3622]

His reaction was completely justified considering how hard his achievement was, but at least the reporters knew better than to mock his achievement. Congrats to the kid, and how he dedicated it to his father was heartwarming

[@HunterDeRiot]

*cough cough* sky news reporter *cough cough*

[@chrisk9808]

To be the very first out of 35 years is phenomenal. What an excellent feel-good story!! You can tell they didn't do any research when they said "probably the first." 3 years ago people weren't even 30% as close as this kid just went.

[@taeromann5929]

They didn't mock But they downplayed it a bit Even saying the he "was believed to be the first one who made this achievement of beating the game", when he was, in fact, the first one to have beaten it.

[@mateussilva635]

@@taeromann5929 Well, you gotta admit it's a pretty niche subject, can't blame non-specialized reporters for reacting like they did.

[@Bilski86]

There was a reporter in Australia who mocked him told him to put the controller down and go outside 😢

[@SauceyRedHN]

It was refreshing to watch this after having seen the other newscaster tell him to go outside. These people were actually really nice.

[@5PYZ3R]

probably for that reason

[@DimkaSulegnaa]

Oh they definitely heard about that drama because they went out of their way to mention that he’s good at knowing when to put the controller down and go outside lol

[@SunIsLost]

​@@DimkaSulegnaayea lol

[@QBAN2010]

Amen!!!

[@kyos7894]

Is she wrong though? Compared to playing tetris, doing ur laundry is better and has more meaning to life

[@Erik_Emer]

A MUCH better new report compared to that British lady telling the kid to get fresh air. Not only did they get the creators to talk to him, but they also admired the interaction.

[@alexanderrojas4546]

and the little jab at the end saying how he actually bikes and goes out, loved that

[@Linklex7]

For real these NBC News ladies have my respect for how they handled this. Like actual news Anchors

[@Y-two-K]

@@alexanderrojas4546 I mean, being addicted to screens (games or not) is a legitimate issue facing kids and adults. If he put in 12 hours of practice a day then I think it would be wrong to glorify that much screen time, ESPECIALLY for an adolescent.

[@TheBulletTrain]

@@Y-two-K Would you say the same if a kid was out playing basketball 12 hours a day? Not saying YOU wouldn't, but that is the mindset that the british caster who is being burned had. If its outside, its good, if its the evil screens its bad. For me as long as he is taking care of his school work and his other responsibilities (as much as a 13 year old has, chores and such) then have fun with what you are passionate about.

[@zero9435]

@@Y-two-K It's still heartless to belittle a kid's achievement no human has before in the name of his deceased father. That's a moment someone should reevaluate what meaning they want their presence in the world to have.

[@Kari2025]

Very cool to introduce him to the creators of the game. That’s something that he’ll never forget. So sad to hear about his Dad.

[@yannisgk]

you are a DM fan?

[@Kari2025]

@@yannisgk Yuuuup

[@Goat-tb9re]

Theres thousands of people who are very proud of Willis, including his father. Congrats, dude!

[@ObesePuppies]

His father is dead 🤦🏽‍♂️ … he can’t be proud, but he would’ve been proud.

[@Goat-tb9re]

@ObesePuppies 🙄 you know some people believe in the afterlife, right? His father is proud, looking down on him.

[@Killadey]

I know I lot of people will never get why this is a big deal, but for the gaming community this is a monumentally historical achievement. Well done Willis, we're all proud of you.

[@Ikronix007]

Its a big deal because no one has never beaten this game (Til now obv) . I encourage you to watch Classic World Tetris Championship (CWTC) and learn the hand techniques such as Hypertapping, Das, and Rolling. Then you will understand why it is such a huge achievement. Tetris is not an easy game.

[@CForCendetta]

You’re not proud brother. You are jealous

[@onepieceawesome]

@@CForCendetta my dawg stop assuming something thats not even true

[@mateussilva635]

@@onepieceawesome C'mon, guy was just messing up

[@colourbasscolourbassweapon2135]

I agree no cap

[@Raptorman0909]

The creators were awesome to congratulate the kid -- so happy that they took the time to do so...

[@makytondr8607]

I think their minds were blown more than ours :)

[@woutervanr]

His dad would undoubtedly have been proud of him. This takes soo much determination and concentration. Reaching the top of any sport/game/etc is a great achievement.

[@SaschaPallenberg]

I am 52 now and played Tetris since it came out. These are the stories that make me so proud to say: Yes, I'm a gamer!

[@usibistro]

Biggest W of all time

[@Squant]

Not me. Studies just keep on proving that crowd is saturated with white supremacists and misogyny. I'm a regular person who plays games.

[@Mr.__Sofi]

nice lol

[@lerigan]

We’re all gamers, but that kid? That kid’s a deity.

[@officialmoai3107]

Nice.

[@4RILDIGITAL]

An inspiring story of determination and perseverance. Huge congratulations to Willis on achieving what was thought to be impossible and showing us that age is not a barrier to success. This dedication is a true testament to his father's support.

[@dedhedmotorco]

Your dad was there celebrating with you lil bro. He's proud for sure. Congrats dude!

[@patriksvensson2360]

This was a very wholesome video. I'm glad for his achievement, that it was acknowledged publicly and that the two founders of the game were there to congratulate him on this incredible feat. His mom must be very proud of him, both for the game crashing score and for having such a level-headed and bright kid, and I'm sure his dad would've been proud beyond belief as well. Wishing him all the best in days to come!

[@ajasen]

there's a mini documentary on KZbin about how he achieved this. There was actually an older more experienced player going for the same record at pretty much the same time who was Livestreaming, and when he found out, his reaction was to be super-excited for this kid, almost as excited as the kid himself. That really seemed heart warming that they were competitors but had so much respect for each other's achievements.

[@patriksvensson2360]

@@ajasen _That_ is true sportsmanhip!

[@ChrisTian-sd5yq]

yeah from agamer channel I think

[@mattdavis911]

If anything he had a subdued reaction to the crash, I don't think he overreacted at all! Epic.

[@davemeade4371]

His dad just died How?

[@riwanbank]

​@@davemeade4371god called him

[@VOAN]

And now he becomes the Tetris legend.

[@SirThilliomAnimations]

He's now among the list of people who did something for the first time.

[@tarabooartarmy3654]

I think many of us know at least one person who CLAIMED to have beaten Tetris. This kid REALLY did it. So cool getting to meet a legend after such an accomplishment! They were so kind to do this for him.

[@QwDragon]

Now waiting for level overflow (255 to 0).

[@RazielBG]

@@QwDragon the community probably targets that next. They say now that they know when the crashes happen, next competitions will be to see how far they can get by avoiding the crashes.

[@AS42100]

I’ve never met anyone who claimed that. Lol

[@asheep7797]

@@QwDragonlooks like we have a clear winner for that journey - Alex T.

[@Rosie-ij3on]

Potentially the greatest achievement in gaming history! Well done, Willis 🥳

[@tyson31415]

Most people, myself included, assumed it was literally impossible for a human to do this. That kid is a legend in his time.

[@bochatube]

​@@tyson31415 what a mastermind right?? And that thing tapping the joypad from the back, amazing. When was exactly THE END of the game? Did he knew that sth like that was going to happend??

[@abg7750]

@@bochatube A handful of people deconstructed the coding in the game and figured out there are specific instances that can trigger the game to crash at that high of level. He actually knew he passed one of the first triggers a couple of levels prior, where if you clear a single line going into the level it will crash. He knew it was possible, he just wasn't sure exactly when it would happen. And because he messed up a couple of piece placements, he came very close to not triggering the crash (though he would have set new records for high scores and highest levels). Within the last couple of weeks, two other people have been able to achieve this, so despite the fact that this game is decades old, people are still improving at it. Theoretically, you can play until level 255 without triggering a crash (he crashed it at 157), at which point the game resets back to level 0. However, it would take an incredibly precise series of events. It may not be possible for humans to actually be able to do this... but that also is what we thought about triggering the game crash less than five years ago.

[@bochatube]

@@abg7750 just amazing. And great info, thanks. What a bright young fella! Unbelievable

[@malirk]

It's an amazing milestone in gaming. Check out Summoning Salt's channel for more amazing milestones like the frame perfect mario 1 game. (Not yet fully achieved)

[@oregonghost3782]

some people may say.. it's just a game . To those who know.. incredible.

[@superblondeDotOrg]

it's more than just a game .. it is thousands of hours of wasted life.

[@oregonghost3782]

@@superblondeDotOrg wasted hours? like people who eat healthy for years and die the next day of an illness or some type of accident? Sounds like you hate what the kid enjoyed doing.

[@CheezBoyz2009]

​​@@oregonghost3782average skynews fan (not you but the guy you responded to)

[@DanildFlamme]

To those who says that it is just a game: Football is also just a game (I will now brace for "flaming-impact"). It is all a matter of viewpoint.

[@superblondeDotOrg]

@@oregonghost3782 you can't handle the truth.

[@MangosInTrees]

What a gamer. Mad respect 🫡

[@wesss9353]

Billy Mitchell is the video game player of the century

[@l5248]

​@@wesss9353Tommy Tallarico's mother is very proud

[@Zenzuu]

As someone born in the 80s and grew up playing Tetris, it makes me happy seeing today's young teens appreciating the game.

[@Penny-16]

It was NOT an “over the top reaction”! His reaction was completely warranted. It was an amazing achievement.

[@MomoHitsujiOwO]

Very valid point here, I wished they worded it better 😅

[@CA-tk8yn]

Congratulations young man. You did something no one has ever done before, except a few who lie to their friends and those who know they commonly lie. Good job being legitimate, and always remain that way.

[@FidoHusky]

what if your father hit you with a 2x4 when you werent looking

[@Woozlewuzzleable]

RIP to his father, that part got me.

[@SirThilliomAnimations]

@asdfmovie13 Who was the competitor?

[@DB-YGO]

​@SirThilliomAnimations PixelAndy also got the crash. There are now 3 players with the crash. Other top players are actively trying for it too.

[@SirThilliomAnimations]

@@DB-YGO Man that's crazy. And Blue scuti was just the beginning.

[@RosiePosey5150]

He has gained the respect of the whole community. And I am so happy about how wholesome everyone is being to him about this. Gaming community and KZbin community as well as streamers.

[@dannyboots]

Except for Sky News..

[@paulybfromda303]

Here's a REAL news anchor. Well done

[@TheOneInYellow]

Quite possibly the best news coverage of an important moment in gaming history, done respectively as best as the news casters can. Just simply lovely!

[@k90v85]

wasnt over the top though

[@TheOneInYellow]

@@k90v85 ha ha, I guess that would have been a tad more in keeping with how news is delivered, but at least this one was wholesome with a lovely interaction with one of the original Tetris developers!

[@merrivideo]

The questions at the end were actually interesting.

[@TheOneInYellow]

@@merrivideo I thought so too, and though neither newscaster were well versed in the gaming world, the questions and opinions were respectful. This is a fine example of how to approach a subject with some humility and respect. It's in stark contrast to the UK Sky News newscaster who was completely ignorant, biased, dismissive, and humiliated another person's accomplishment to which that newscaster had zero interest in. That judgmental attitude was not displayed by these newscasters in America, nor by most other UK or world news outlets either.

[@MathieuLaflamme]

First they didn't show the Tetris game at the beginning but another game. Tetris only have blocks with four squares. And they could have just explained rolling just a little bit... And to have a great coverage they could have given the different steps of the progress in the game to reach the end. 1. Levels 1-29 2. Weird block colors when the game starts to behave weirdly 3. Crash at the end that happens not always at the same level

[@JStorm13]

Reason why it's so hard, is that, not only the speed of the game is insane at that level, but to get to it, you have to get through two levels where the blocks are nearly impossible to see. I hope they send him a signed copy of the game.

[@industrialcranetech9392]

Same speed as at level 29...

[@jama211]

@@industrialcranetech9392 yes, which is an insane speed.

[@JStorm13]

@@industrialcranetech9392 which is why the speed is the lesser of the problems that you will encounter. The "charcoal" and "cyan"(I think that's the name they gave it) block color levels amp up the difficulty.

[@industrialcranetech9392]

@@JStorm13I completely agree

[@PleaseDontLeaveMeHangingReply]

@@JStorm13dusk

[@tek512]

This kid did something many of us have aspired to for nearly 40 years. He has more than earned his accolades. More importantly, he has proven he has the will and drive necessary to do whatever he puts his mind to in life.

[@executiveinvestments]

Sad and pathetic

[@tek512]

@@executiveinvestments Why yes, yes you are.

[@executiveinvestments]

@@tek512 dumbest comment as to be expected by another brainless gen z with no life.

[@executiveinvestments]

@@tek512 very sad and pathetic you are worshipping video games. 🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@user-yg1dg6xm2g]

Congrats to his mom and dad for supporting him, rather than criticizing him, as many parents might.

[@The-Opium-Den]

This kid will be a legend for years to come. Lots of gamers dream about pulling off feats like this but never do. Kudos to NBC for arranging the meeting between Willis and the Tetris makers.

[@Leon-nk8zd]

I’m sorry for your lost kid, I’m sure your dad would have been very proud of you..

[@xsct878]

loss*

[@franktorres2915]

loss*

[@ryuno2097]

Yeah that's sad. Imagine how proud his dad would've been.

[@hourz]

Imagine your kid being the one who beats Tetris that would be insane!

[@nickangelo116]

Somebody's kid got lost?

[@icklekimberly]

I just love this, the fact 40 year old game is still being played and enjoyed by many. Kid is going to have an amazing future for sure, and that must've been so cool to speak to the creators of Tetris!

[@satanlucifer4437]

The last line about dedicating it to his late father really made me tear up. Amazing kid!

[@winstonbarros8036]

God bless you always, brother. 🌟👍

[@jamaalfridge]

Now *that's* recognition. Compare this to the Sky News anchor who belittled his achievement.

[@MistyKathrine]

NBC did it right and bringing the tetris creator to congratulate him was a very nice touch.

[@la7era1u54]

I prefer to call her the Sky Hag

[@BlankaCentral]

has is a to nice for her. id say something else but dont wanna get banned@@la7era1u54

[@hristaki99]

​@@la7era1u54LMAO

[@JMQA1]

There's something really specially about a kid beating a game that pre-existed himself. Knowledge was passed down and learned, let alone his own interest to pursue it led to this outcome. An incredible moment!

[@AYVYN]

That’s true. I like how you put that.

[@terrancebrown87]

Probably be made into a movie in like 20 years

[@mitchman-bm6kj]

I am so glad that these news reporters were nice to him and congratulated him for the win. Hope this makes up for the one news reporter that didn't do any of that when covering it and instead basically told him to touch grass.

[@thesilentangel8299]

That sky reporter doubled down and set her Twitter location to “somewhere outside.”

[@brandynnutter]

Good to see news coverage of this that isn't making fun of the kid. What he did is truly impressive. With the kind of dedication it took to achieve what he did in the competitive Tetris scene, I am sure we haven't heard the last of Willis "Blue Scuti" Gibson.

[@matthagen67]

It warms my heart to see such a young kid appreciate the "prehistoric era" of the video game medium in 2024. I grew up in the 1980s. NES and arcade games were my childhood. I'm glad the passion for Retro lives on, not just in the hearts of us, boomers, but new kids as well 💪😉

[@anaguma90]

Retro games still have good sized competitive and speedrunning communities! The fact that they are old means there's all sorts of quirks to them as they were designed to run on ancient hardware, which means people love pulling them apart and doing crazy glitches with them. The original super mario speedruns are now reaching the limits of human ability with people vying for frames and milliseconds.

[@youtubesucks1821]

In terms of video games, Tetris would be more ancient times. Pong would be prehistoric

[@modarkthemauler]

Considering how a lot of popular games have gone for story and quality game play over graphical fidelity shows that those old classics will be around and played for probably forever.

[@Betobilletes]

A lot of young people are into retro games. Including myself. I have the nes, snes and n64 and ps1 I play them whenever I can.

[@davebob4973]

its more like the medieval era

[@ArthurKhazbs]

Good job connecting the dude with the creators of the game! This is truly a once in a lifetime thing to have.

[@RalinaPerene]

Alexey attended the 2019 world championship. It’s before Scuti joined the scene, but it’s not like it was impossible to happen.

[@emmapalya1682]

So nice to see there's still love for retro games, and such a nice surprise for him. May his father rest in peace.

[@aznsensation44]

Very cool of the Tetris creator and co-founder of the company to congratulate him I'm sure it meant a lot to him

[@josephburke2553]

Your father would absolutely have been proud. This ain’t a roll of the dice, this is a skill and achievement, and there isn’t a father in the world that wouldn’t be outstandingly proud at his son being the first in the world to achieve something hundreds of millions have tried and failed to do. Great job man!!!

[@nathanmitchell2827]

I am so happy for this kid. This is a genuinely amazing achievement, and he deserves every bit of credit that he is getting.

[@MBGolfer]

That was awesome. I remember this game and I am 61. Really cool the creators came on to congratulate him. Great story all around.

[@NoogahOogah]

I feel like this is the first video game achievement which the whole world can really appreciate at the same level as a sports or gymnastics achievement. What an absolute legend.

[@guilhermesavian5445]

nah. there are video game legends like the korean Faker that have attained top sport star level of recognition; Check "The TImes: Faker in top 10 Influential Sports Figures"

[@balsac69nice]

​@@guilhermesavian5445sounds made up

[@monicasmm]

@@balsac69niceit’s not, Faker is legendary. It takes a lot of dedication to dominate in the game he plays in the same we he does.

[@balsac69nice]

@@monicasmm No

[@balsac69nice]

@@monicasmm all it takes is DEEZ NUTZ

[@surreal9558]

Thank you for making this segment so accurate, NBC. This was extremely well made, and the effort you put in to show Willis' achievement and let him meet the creators is amazing. Well done you guys

[@ranchu748]

Congrats Willis. Avid Tetris fan here, I hope his dad was watching with Jonas as he achieved this. Crazy to see how far this game has come.

[@Aroilt]

I'm so proud of this kid. He will be remembered by gamers and even non-gamers alike for making such an achievement.

[@clay2889]

This was so incredibly wholesome dude. Very cool of the Tetris creators to congratulate this kid! He's going to become something great in the future, I'm sure. His dad would be proud!

[@exclamationpointman3852]

Amen and Amen. GOD bless and keep these people and many this young man have a great life in the name of JESUS CHRIST.

[@clay2889]

Amen. @@exclamationpointman3852

[@nickonerd]

This kid deserves respect, what a nice kid. Completely deserves this respect!

[@EricaGamet]

As someone who was addicted to TETRIS back in the mid-80s (SOOOO many quarters spent in the arcade and hours on my friends' console), I'm glad to see kids still playing... and competitively at that! Great job! I still play when I can... I feel like it keeps my mind sharp.

[@Bunny11344]

I love tetris! The only game I could play 😅

[@audisiojunior21]

Amazing achievement. Those reporters have no idea what this kid did. It’s literally landing a spacecraft on the moon alone.

[@juliobastosjb]

That meeting really gave me the chills! What an honor to be praized by the creator of this important game!

[@Samuel-er5bf]

this kid is awesome I hope some company pays him out or something. Mom seemed genuinely happy for him, supportive without being the parent that says it’s a waste of time. Rough hearing about his dad. I wish this family the best

[@Ncthrifter]

Even if they don't the tournaments are not just for fun there is big money in games. He has won some tournaments and will win many more.

[@Senriam]

@@Ncthrifteryep this kid is going to go on to be a literal pro gamer. With the money he’s won, I think he could be called a professional now. The sky is the limit for him.

[@realistically9091]

He gets nothing

[@tatianatsivata7091]

@@realistically9091he does

[@trainerred6582]

You want someone to pay him money, yet The Soviet didn't even pay Alexey Pajitnov to create Tetris. All the profit of the first games he created went straight to the Soviet Union's budget, lol. Nowadays, Alex does get paid royalties every time a Tetris and Hexic game (another game he created) when they're purchased

[@barcelonachair6487]

That was not "over the top" reaction, that was a normal 13 year old being happy. What a wonderful kid! Over the top would be starting a Tik Tok dance trend for everything thing you do in life.....

[@dalkos6]

Exactly!

[@lagpostg.r.y9955]

NBC news are the type of news source to actually respect video games

[@nissan_skyline]

Thank you for giving the kid and this story the respect it deserves. This is a huge accomplishment, and what an awesome surprise.

[@MxDiagnosis]

This is so much nicer and kinder, even reflecting on his health and hobbies but not putting any of them down So awesome of them to organise the meeting of the creators ❤

[@FizzLeeague]

They actually did. She called his reaction over-the-top. He literally is the only human on the planet to achieve this ever - something previously only an AI was able to do. It's insane. He holds the world record for a hand-eye co-ordination motor achievement - like a sporting record. Even when news reporters *try* to be nice like they did here, they still can't help throwing shade at gaming and gamers. They mock his reaction to becoming the best in the world at something - a feat none of them will likely ever achieve.

[@mangopie7602]

​@@FizzLeeaguewhat makes "over-the-top" reactions bad??? It could be a compliment

[@skwoopy]

@@FizzLeeague No she didnt

[@_Beezul]

Thank you for reporting this in such a positive and accurate way. What this kid did is amazing.

[@shenysys]

Pity that Pommy News host didn't take a leaf out of their book instead of belittling him.

[@CocoMin95]

I dont know why but i had tears watching that kid reacting humbly when the tetris creators congratulated him. The mother looked so proud of her son too. Congratulations 🎉

[@10191927]

This kid is as legendary as the game itself, well done! If he isn’t paraded through the school as a gamer king he needs a Royal coronation ceremony.

[@quinnbernal1398]

Gaming history has been made. Congratulations, Willis! You deserve all the praise and recognition. I'm so happy you got to meet the creators of the game, Alex Pajitnov and Hank Rogers! I'm sure you're Dad is proud of you. Continue to game on to your heart's content!

[@operative2136]

Nothing but the utmost respect for his achievement. As a gamer, I appreciate the skill (and it IS absolutely a skill) it took to accomplish this.

[@omegaweapon116]

I was watching a video on it and apparently it takes some luck too because those later levels start to use random color palettes so you could potentially not be able to see the pieces. Staying focused to accomplish this must be mentally and physically draining

[@electron2601]

The colors pallets on the later levels actually aren't random. There's a video that talks about it detail and how the memory allocates it.

[@oh-noe]

@@omegaweapon116 the colors are random, but its not random each run. Everybody has the same colors on the same tracks

[@NotHalfEatenPotatoes]

@@omegaweapon116 The color palettes in the grand scheme of things is such an insignificant factor in this accomplishment. Sure, there are 2 specific palettes that are exceptionally difficult to get past. But even without that, that barely takes away from this achievement.

[@Kosukie]

Now that is the coverage that boy deserves. So much better than the other news reporter in the UK. Well done.

[@DarthBaras13]

This kids' life is about to change forever. He is now a Legend!

[@LoudNTechie]

That's so cool! And this kid seems so smart and genuinely nice. And I'm also so sorry for his loss. I wish him and his family the best.

[@Brain_Juice]

Very sorry to hear about his dad - A Tremendous Achievement - Tetris is a timeless mind crunching masterpiece! A great thing to arrange for the creators to share and celebrate this FIRST with the 13 year old!

[@AD-cx2mw]

Aaawwww I'm proud and glad you are happy brother ❤ it is an amazing achievement. I'm sorry for your loss but he's with you always never forget that

[@artisticbloodflow]

I am so sorry to hear about his loss of his father. Wishing him and his family the absolute best

[@charlesolfrost]

poor kid just lost his dad😢

[@belltolls1984]

This is so sweet and wholesome, made me shed a tear, thank you for doing this. This is the exact opposite of how sky news and how Jayne Secker treated this monumental achievement. Good job NBC, best wishes to Willis and his family, your Father would be so proud!

[@gizrealgaming2585]

Kid Is On Another Level Of Focus & Dedication, Truly Absolute one of His Kind and Deserves Respect for Achieving what Took other gamers Years Trying to Accomplish. 💪🏼💯

[@trinitymoonlight]

Congrats young man. Achieving this is no easy feat. Double kudos for chatting with the creators of the game to congratulate you. What a honor.

[@cw9282]

The creators look so young for a game they made in 1984. Guess playing video games keeps you young, figuratively and physically.

[@dentalnovember]

The Russian guy did not look wealthy in comparison to the average American.

[@orelas167]

I'll say! It keeps you out of the sun.

[@isaacfaith9369]

Crazy that it happened within the creators’ lifetimes. Cool that they got to personally congratulate him.

[@caged4820]

Kid now gonna be a Legend....... Forever. Congratulations champ

[@Ultradude604]

I was at his same age about 30 years ago. I only made it to level 9, no matter how much more I played. So I can fully appreciate what he accomplished. This is insane. This isn't the lottery. Lottery is luck. This is skill, and lots of hard work.

[@omegaweapon116]

I don't play a lot of Tetris but are the pieces random?

[@TheBLBShow]

@@omegaweapon116 There is 7 different Pieces. In this Original NES Version it is completely random which piece you will get as far as I know. I'm not an expert myself but Skill plays a siginificantly bigger role than luck if that is what you are concerned about. This is an insane archivement and people who say they they could do it with a few days of practise have no idea what they are talking about. BlueScuti has incredible talent even with years of practise very few people would be able to get as good as this.

[@omegaweapon116]

There's nothing wrong with a little luck. We all recognize his skill @@TheBLBShow

[@lav7161]

Congrats, Kid. To be able to do that at 13 is incredible. You have a bright future ahead of you.