Tetris Effect: Connected Nintendo Switch Review - Is It Worth It?

[@thealexfish4480]

Tetris Effect is the first version of Tetris to finally provide an audio/visual experience that the gameplay deserves. It's amazing.

[@Ponaru]

Tetris DS says hello.

[@thealexfish4480]

@@Ponaru DS was cute but Effect is a different beast entirely. If you haven't played Effect yet, give it a chance, it's incredible

[@MikeL-gt2wz]

I enjoyed the presentation of The New Tetris on N64. Definitely picking this up, though.

[@thealexfish4480]

@@MikeL-gt2wz hey yeah, The New Tetris is probably the next best thing when it comes to audio/visuals

[@greenyoda1980]

@@MikeL-gt2wz My mom and I would play New Tetris and Pokémon Puzzle League a lot on N64. I'd like to think I'm pretty good at Tetris (got the top spots several times in Tetris 99), but she was hard to beat! She's excellent at puzzle games.

[@Robbie_221B]

I know this may sound weird but Journey mode, when I beat it the day the game came out on PS4, still feels like probably the most emotional campaign I've ever experienced in a video game

[@DanYellowZena]

You're not alone. I felt like I got high (and I never been high on drugs). There was this amazing euphoria that oozed through me while playing the game.

[@hellovagim]

Try playing it in VR, that’s how I played this game for the first time and when I went through the journey mode, each stage sent me in awe

[@ElliotScottDating]

I really wanna get into tetris. Never played it but this comment and these videos make me wanna try.

[@smedlings]

Daaaaaamn, between this and Metroid Dread both getting 10/10's from NL this week, looks like my weekend's gonna be pretty booked...

[@coreyhaynes7951]

I played this game on the PSVR. I have such a personal attachment to it, it was my 'sadgame' a game I play when im sad to escape my own mind. The last level almost made me tear up and ive played that first level 100s of times since then.

[@That_Lady_Charlie]

Anyone with a Switch (and the $39.99 to spare) should absolutely download this. Tetris Effect is the best thing that's ever been done with the Tetris name. The synesthesia set to one of the best soundtracks in video game history is a peerless experience that no review could ever do justice to. The Switch version runs *amazingly* well - full framerate, no slowdown, and smooth online. It's phenomenal.

[@Usualsf]

30 dollars? Nah i'll pass hard.

[@That_Lady_Charlie]

@@Usualsf Okay that was always allowed

[@garretthintz4154]

@@Usualsf it's on game pass btw.

[@autisticgaming2004]

@@Usualsf it's actually 40 dollars lol

[@MikeL-gt2wz]

I just bought it, and I have no regrets.

[@nicked_fenyx]

While I think Journey mode is slightly more emotional (and certainly more immersive) in VR, I'm loving the fact that I can play this on my Switch. Personally, I'll put far more hours into this on Switch just because there's less setup involved. I don't really want to get out my headset, calibrate it, etc just to play a few rounds of Tetris. But with Switch, it's as quick and easy as turning on the system and clicking on the game. I recommend those with VR play through Journey mode at least once there, but if you don't have VR, no worries - the game is still *amazing* without it. This is a perfect port of an exceptional game. I couldn't be happier.

[@MsKornkitty]

I love this game and i'm genuinely excited to play hours more of it on a handheld. Feels like this is the perfect game for OLED.

[@EweToobUsername]

This game is best experienced on OLED anything. After connecting my laptop to an A8G and seeing it pop in 4k HDR, it’s hard playing on just a 1080p screen.

[@The_RedVIII]

My favorite Tetris game and it looks amazing on the OLED screen.

[@Rulez198]

My 65" oled TV looks amazing

[@johnmickey5017]

The main reason I want the Switch OLED, these games are made for portable. I’ve logged many hours on Lumines Electronic Symphony on Vita and Lumines Remastered on Switch. Nothing compared to good headphones + handheld.

[@AndrewJcf]

Tetris effect is a game that just makes me feel happy playing it there is no frustration no stress I’ve played it mainly in VR and soon the switch. The music and the atmosphere is amazing I never thought that Tetris could make me this happy.

[@brady9592]

I just have it on PC but this is such a lovely game and I agree that it manages to be emotionally moving when it all comes together.

[@johncave3334]

Great review. I enjoy Tetris but my wife loves all things Tetris. I didn't know much about this version prior to this review. This will likely be a holiday purchase for my better half.

[@Serch_YB27]

Tetris is probably the game I've spent more hours playing all around. It is so addictive and started playing on PC on FB and the tetris website for hours having it on half my screen and netflix on the other half. When getting my switch I have loved playing tetris 99, love it whenever there is an event after a new game has released to get the theme. I was hesitating on getting this version of the game as I didn't get what was different, but I think the audio effects many have mentioned might have convinced me. I'll add it to my wishlist and maybe after finishing Dread and other games I'll get it for christmas

[@shannonrussell898]

I can’t begin to tell you how worth it it is. I was stunned

[@triple_lei]

Why wait? It's on sale now, I believe.

[@AceFondu]

This game in VR is still the best VR experience I've ever had.

[@vmbo]

If you like this, then check out Rez Infinite Area X

[@jaredf6205]

I tried it on VR because I couldn’t imagine what people liked about it. It’s literally just Tetris. One of the least special games I’ve ever seen people praise. No clue what could possibly make it any kind of VR experience.

[@AceFondu]

@@jaredf6205 For me, it's hypnotic, meditative, calming. It brings me out of a bad day like nothing else. It's not a AAA revolutionary VR thing, that isn't what it's going for and that sounds like what you're looking for. I'd recommend Star Wars Squadron in VR for that, it's pretty spectacular especially if you're a Star Wars fan.

[@craigauclair4026]

Just got Tetris Effect, and loving it!

[@leociresi4292]

👍👍👍👍

[@deech.dubois]

That old Game Boy & Tetris, my most played game back then. That's why I needed this new portable one on Switch. I normally never double dip but that price and with some points left over, it was a no brainer & not that expensive. I bought it on PS4 & it's available on Game Pass (Xbox & PC) but not available on the Cloud for now (that would be perfect) :)

[@James-gj8rn]

I wish this had a physical copy 😊

[@That_Lady_Charlie]

if there's a physical version, it will be 100% worth a double dip.

[@joshernsteen2066]

You might forget the game is there. The Playststion version of the game is sort of easy to misplace or lose thought about where it is in the room.

[@James-gj8rn]

@@That_Lady_Charlie same for me 😊

[@MetaAyaFangirl]

Yeah, if Stardew Valley got a physical release, then Tetris Effect will hopefully have it too!😄💖

[@ArchAngel_M81]

I’ve played this on Xbox Series X. The visual s and soundtrack are awesome. I will say that I wish the actual Tetris box where you place the falling blocks was a little bit bigger along with blocks. Also, I don’t like how the block speed would just spike at certain points in each stage. In past games, as you leveled up, the block speed would gradually increase. Here, you can be on speed 3 then the game will just spike to 9 after you clear so many lines. It can really throw off your rhythm. I’ve failed a couple of stages because of the speed spikes.

[@gilolaes4725]

If it's anything like the PS4 and PC versions, you can use the right stick to enlarge and rotate the game field while you're playing. The game will even remember your orientation between play sessions iirc. There should also be an option in the settings for increasing both the default size of the play area as well as the coloring of the blocks. I'd actually recommend most people switch to the standard coloring once they start getting to higher difficulties, as it helps a lot in developing muscle memory.

[@verbal_backflips9493]

You can make them bigger

[@jessif.]

I've just fallen in the love with the Switch. Tetris Effect is on sale and I'm definitely getting it after this review! Thanks

[@ronaldguz]

Im thinking on grabbing it

[@alprazolam1]

@@ronaldguz I just got it and played it. It’s 100% worth the money even if you end up paying 40 dollars I think this game is really beautiful and satisfying. The music and visuals makes the game so satisfying.

[@ronaldguz]

@@alprazolam1 i just got it for 15 bucks with my golden points, and omgggg this game is amazing

[@jessif.]

@@ronaldguz It's on sale for $24 on the Nintendo Store but the sale ends today!

[@WhoElseButZane]

This is definitely gonna become my "play this while stoned as fuck in a dazed stupor for 3 hours straight" kinda game

[@lightaspected]

currently doing exactly this

[@leociresi4292]

Never realized you can achieve a Perfectris with only 18 lines, until last night!

[@soth1sol]

welp, this just sold me

[@nelson-haha89]

I finally got this on sale. I didn't know Tetris could make me terrified or sad or anxious, or at peace with everything. Journey mode was a crazy trip.

[@DonWafle]

Such a great Soundtrack, men I can't get tired of playing this awesome game!

[@bctalicorn809]

This is just the tiniest nitpick, but I'm not overly fond of how all of the reviews have "is it worth it?" in the title, when just "(name of game) review" would suffice. I feel like it's a weird question to ask for every single game. If you guys don't change it or no one else minds, it's really not a big deal. But, uh, with that being said, you guys always give pretty good reviews, and this is no exception. Thanks for all the hard work and good uploads.

[@mindypeters458]

I have Tetris Effect for the VR but I'm so thinking about getting it for my Nintendo Switch

[@cirmothe9]

Thanks for sharing your own thoughts Jon. I watch to the end just for you. And thanks for mentioning performance. I also got Tetris Effect when it first released on PS4 and played it on a ps4 pro. Then I got it again when it released on PC. And then I bought it yet again on the Oculus Quest 2. And I'm gonna buy it again on the switch.

[@xerxesmontes9828]

What do you think of "Triangle Strategy" and "Xenoblade 3"? Off topic question, I know, but seeing as though you like Tetris Effect like me, I might as well ask.

[@TheScripflipNetwork]

This is crucial on the steam deck. I've played so many versions of Tetris on there through emulation but now I have this and it's just perfectly paired.

[@kevinphoenix2007]

It's pretty subtle, but if you look closely, you can see the very slight graphical limitations within the game. The particle effects that were prominent on the PS4 are softer and more cell shaded on the Switch and the colors of the blocks are a bit more flat colored. Despite that, the fluidity of the game remains as good as the PS4 version. It still feels like it goes beyond the Switch's graphical limits while still remaining within them...know what I mean?

[@procomxt]

Comparing the PS4 slim version to the Switch ,am I wrong if I said the Switch version runs better ? It feels smoother all around . Particle density ,particle size ,lighting is definitely different ,but the game still looks great .

[@micabryant4513]

Im calling it, whoever was playing that Gameboy at the start was clearly laying those tetriminoes badly to trigger people because they thought it'd be funny! 😂 I see you.

[@many_feet]

That's actually not that bad depending on what they're doing. Going three block long towers on the sides and a space of four blocks in the middle, with some hooks peaking into the middle. It increases the probability of the next piece being able to clear a line. Contrary to when people stack and leave only one line open. That requires you to NEED an I-block to clear lines effectively. Especially in Tetris Effect with the ability to freeze time, it's the exact strategy you need to get a Perfectris (19-lines)... I'm sorry I just nerded Tetris...

[@micabryant4513]

@@many_feet ugh you got nerd on me ...now I'm going to have to go home and wash this... Joking aside...that whole he left? Is that a pro strat too?

[@many_feet]

@@micabryant4513 hmm yeah that probably wasn't pro. I'm not sure if things are different without being able to Hold pieces back then and leaving holes like that wasn't a big deal. But they probably accidentally made pro plays~

[@EchoMid]

I love this game with vr and without, just the music and classic tetris is so nice to play on.

[@Gfreak250]

I bought this game the day after it was released, while it was on sale and I can safely say I'm really looking forward to playing it on the Switch Oled when I finally get one. I've played it in 4K on the XBox One X and absolutely loved it, so I think the Oled will make it look absolutely beautiful.

[@Dreamality]

One of my favorite games of all time as well!

[@themightytammos]

Forget Metroid Dread, who cares about that silly game? Tetris is the real star of the show this fine Friday.

[@nicked_fenyx]

I got both, and have put more hours into Tetris so far, lol. I was concerned this game would be ignored due to all the excitement about Metroid, especially since I saw literally no coverage of Tetris in the days leading up to its release on Switch. Incredibly relieved to see so many channels now putting up solid reviews of this game. Hopefully that will encourage others to download it, too.

[@Jose0421]

I have this game too on the PC. But glad I got this on the switch so I can take it with me on the go and verse against other people. Love Tetris so much and this is an awesome edition to it. Highly and totally recommended.

[@MetaAyaFangirl]

I also prefer tetris effect over metroid too! Especially the soundtrack and graphics.🥰💗💖🎊

[@Swordman1111]

it's actually running in 60 fps on switch

[@erictan9849]

Yes, you are correct, it actually runs in 60fps on switch. Nintendo Life is wrong to assume that the switch versions runs at 30fps.

[@max_the_german4989]

It‘s pretty easy to see the 60 fps. Jon and Zion also didn‘t recognize 60 fps in the Skyward Sword HD trailer, while Alex immediately saw it within the first seconds.

[@Buddhakingpen]

I've never heard someone wax so poetic about moving wallpaper

[@SliminBlue]

This was the first game I've been wanting SO MUCH to buy it on day one. The last time I bought a game on day one was Paper Mario Origami King, and that was more because I was bored. Tetris Effect was so high on my "I NEED to play these games" list that before the Switch port was announced, I was heavily considering dropping a couple hundred dollars on a used PS4 or an Oculus Quest JUST for this game. All that just makes it even more fantastic that this is probably one of the single best miracle ports on the Switch. No VR really stinks, but it is by no means a deal breaker and for most people VR wouldn't be a big deal anyway, so this might be the best console for Tetris Effect excluding VR. Overall even, I'd say that with both Puyo Puyo Tetris games, Tetris 99, and now Tetris Effect, the Switch is the single best console for modern Tetris, and is second overall to PC, but I doubt PC will ever be defeated for the best modern Tetris platform. If you've ever enjoyed Tetris to any extent, you owe it to yourself to play this game, and if you just want a freaking cool game to look at, Tetris Effect fulfills that as well. Please, please please please please PLEASE play this game.

[@ParanoidThalyyMVS]

I love Tetris Effect, but, I don't love non-VR Tetris Effect, I feel like there are other versions of Tetris out there I would rather play than Effect without VR, but still, it's Tetris, so, it's great.

[@The_RedVIII]

That's funny, because I tried the VR version when I bought the game on PS4 and I actually did not enjoy it as much as I enjoyed the TV experience. Reason is that the PSVR is extremely low resolution while I have a 4k OLED TV where the game just looked incredible. There was no way I would sit in a low res VR environment over the OLED experience. And I gotta tell you, the experience on the OLED Switch model is just as striking.

[@alexsimon5184]

I have played the game using PCVR and totally agree, I never even launched the game in nonVR mode because the experience playing the VR version is on another level. It feels like it was designed for VR. I play on a OG Oculus Quest with Virtual Desktop, the Quest version has some visual downgrades; I’ve played both. The OLED screen and the OG Quest’s resolution with the ability to enhance the resolution with through SteamVR really makes the game pop.

[@gabrielandy9272]

i can't play any other tetris game lacking the zone mechanic now lol the mechanic is so good.

[@SpectralBlizzard]

This game should be bundled with the Switch OLED to demonstrate the OLED screen.

[@CDCvlogs]

Thanks for the review! Might get the game for switch. Been playing it for a while thanks to gamepass and the experience is awesome!

[@funcrunch]

I've been playing Tetris in various forms since the original game was launched (I'm Gen X), but this version blew me away. Gorgeous and highly addictive. I bought it on launch day and played through the entire Journey mode, then checked out the other modes the next day. Would still be playing instead of typing this review if my hands weren't physically hurting from playing so much! Only quibble is that the game has crashed a few times when joining a Connected multiplayer game. Hopefully this is temporary.

[@Call_Upon_YAH]

Did it get fixed?

[@funcrunch]

@@Call_Upon_YAH Haven't seen this happen in awhile, so I believe so.

[@Uderscore]

I personally do not fully buy into these games' ability to actually induce "synesthesia" or even the "tetris effect" itself as an idea or their execution of it from a scientific perspective, but I very much appreciate it and Tetsuya Mizuguchi's whole body of work simply for being unique among all other videogames in how they even attempt to achieve something so interesting. To me Tetris Effect is more than anything the wholehearted celebration of Tetris that it deserves, a game that has transcended above all other games since it's invention. Tetris has been repackaged in countless forms, but never before does one treat it with such reverence, frames it like a prestige piece of media, a AAA Tetris game.

[@alexawesome456]

Always expect Jon to be reviewing puzzle-type games. YESSIRRR!!

[@davy_K]

Played this with the hori controller that replaces the joycons and has a proper dpad. Plays beautifully.

[@skiethefolf8247]

The game also runs at 72 FPS on the oculus quest VR platform

[@johnmickey5017]

It got a nice update for Quest 2 recently, it’s a good experience especially with a BT controller

[@ducksareurlords3782]

The only bad thing is that I have to grind the Journey mode and Playlists again so I could get to level 50 and get that Game Boy stage, that has the St. Basil's Cathedral and Korobushka.

[@Mantorp86]

It’s grez because you can tweak it the way you want. I disabled hold function and enable just one piece preview to keep it more classic. I like this so much.

[@AutumnRivers]

I've played this on PC with both VR and non-VR. To reply to the VR mention here; yeah, you'll have a great time either way. Playing in VR will absolutely blow your mind, but you're not missing out on much otherwise.

[@NaomiMinette]

Imagine if this gets Labo VR support! ...is what I wanna say, but I'm not very hopeful.

[@TripMX]

After playing some epic high intensity Tetris 99, one could pop in Tetris Effect Connected to relax and chill.

[@maple_leaf0]

I have no words. It's outstanding, pure audio/visualisation. 10/10.

[@Dremag_Gaming]

One of my fav gaming series. (spent many hours on other versions). But liking how this looks and also glad they have the NES version board as well.

[@TStvonline]

Great review. Thank you Jon and Damien. Too bad there isn't a physical switch release. But I can't wait to download this.

[@okanut]

Oooh I bet this would look stunning on the OLED.

[@leociresi4292]

Imagine playing this in IMAX theater?

[@raysylveons]

Actually, the game does a sneaky thing with the framerate: it’s dynamic! Certain animations and moments will individually change their framerate.

[@chrislee1774]

Is the framerate dip often or noticeable? I'm torn between getting it on Switch (OLED) and PC.

[@originalElctric]

Ive bought this twice on ps4 and pc. It’s incredible on the TV and incredible in VR. This game is so easy to get lost in. If you only had a switch and are interested get it. I’m tempted to get it again on switch lol

[@gus5557]

Does this game support couch co-op (multiplayer with a single Switch and using separate joycons)?

[@fonsingvideogameandconsole6910]

It will look great on an oled switch

[@Jessie47474]

The game runs on 30 fps in journey mode, but it is 60 fps in any multiplayer mode

[@rib_rob_personal]

I only recently got into Tetris. For folks who think it looks boring, like I used to, give it a chance. It's actually a great game.

[@That_Lady_Charlie]

Before I actually played it, I thought "it's just Tetris, it can't be that special." I was so wrong.

[@NOLOAF-AR]

what song was playing at the beginning of this video? :0

[@hansgruber9457]

So happy to see a reviewer who plays the game fairly well so you can actually listen to what they say instead of staring at the mess in front of you and going "nonononono, don't do that... oh boy, please don't... oh god, but this doesn't go there!... Oh no..."

[@paulsd9255]

True, but I’m waiting for a reviewer that doesn’t miss the less difficult T-spin setups…

[@mattg3221]

Two questions: 1. Other reviews have mentioned the graphical explosions etc sometimes getting in the way of the gameplay, particularly at faster speeds. This was an issue for me on latter-stage Tetris 99. Any comments on that? And 2: Any indication of a physical release?

[@xshme]

The graphical explosions can sometimes get a little in the way, but i think you can turn it down in the settings, but personally i wouldnt do it since the background is half the enjoyment. No plans on a physical release so far.

[@yxles]

Still it would be really cool if they supported Labo VR but I'm more than ok for this to be release on Switch

[@DroneCorpse]

I find this game pretty Kitschy (art direction + music choice) but still satisfying since the core game is good. Would most definitely buy for the OLED switch (when I get one).

[@TheBeatlesPkmnFan42]

So excited for pay day so I can nab the game's Switch port (just a week away, not too long). I bought it on Steam when that release hit last month, but it is very intensive on my laptop since my laptop isn't at all a gaming one. So I'm very excited to be able to play it on the Switch so I can play with significantly less lag. I've turned the graphics down entirely on the game on Steam and I still get massive lag in certain sections.

[@swaxTV]

I hope this gets a physical release

[@MrFox-wn5jt]

Just grabbed this - it looks phenomenal. I think this will be the first time I spend a substantial amount of time online with my Switch.

[@Digiflower5]

Hey guys its on sale on oculus quest right now for 19.99

[@Flammengeif]

I just bought it for my Oculus Quest 2, it's just perfect in VR even if it's "only" Tetris. And since it's also a game on the Xbox Gamepass Streaming I think I'll pass this time on my switch.

[@pierrotcristian]

If I loved Tetris 99, should I get this game? Or should I just keep playing Tetris 99?

[@brianlovesmc]

Tetris effect connected is like a whole different beast, if you even remotely like Tetris I think you should pick up this game. It’s really not like anything you’ve ever played

[@yekker2245]

I'm a big tetris 99 fan as well. I play it everyday. Don't know if I should buy this.

[@vmbo]

@@yekker2245 you should. But if you can buy the pc or ps4 version, then get those

[@ShamBell]

Tetris Effect is the perfect test to check if someone might be a psychopath, if you don't shed a tear at least once during gameplay, there is no other explanation. 😂 Metamorphosis, I think is the zone, had me bawling like a baby while playing.

[@TheBestDayEver3]

Videos featuring Jon are the best. 100% confirmed.

[@volcalstone]

We all need Tetris Attack! Come on Nintendo!

[@DennyLewis]

Enjoyed the Extra commentary

[@NatetendoOfficial]

Is there a 4-player verses mode like in Tetris party? And is there a way to turn off the whole audio/visual synchronization? It's pretty jarring.

[@Jose0421]

It's totally worth it. One of the best Tetris games ever.

[@vitorkk328]

I was waiting for THIS review to make my choice...

[@undyingforce]

Great review and thank you for your thoughts at the end. Not sure if I will buy on switch or steam. Decisions, decisions…

[@KWPZ21]

Is the Classic Nes mode 4 player local multiplayer?

[@IamNOBODY026]

"a very slight difference" Me: WHERES THE SPARKLY TETRIMINOS

[@Mick-hp4yg]

I'm definitely getting this. I like that Tetris is now a free mobile game, but the ads and touch controls grind me down over time. Also, you totally sound like Mufasa.

[@Mick-hp4yg]

Ended up buying it for Oculus. I think it might be my favorite video game. No joke.

[@anonymoushuman8443]

Do you need Nintendo switch online to play this or is there a single player mode

[@PhilipMurphy8Extra]

Quick look at this game suggests that it's a good version of Tetris for sure, Quite a lot happened on the Switch today for sure.

[@adithya260]

I love Tetris 99 so i think i will enjoy this too.

[@mweeee]

I don't like the visuals, but the different modes sound cool

[@aname4931]

I'm very interested in this now

[@RobMost]

I loved this game on XBox, but cba buying it again. I never read the instructions... So I never actually used the zone function XD

[@lesterjohnn24]

Wish it had physical release

[@ForceMaximus84]

Now we just need some kind of Dr. Mario game and we’d be set.

[@DanielF9129]

this is one of my favorite games of all times but i will not get it for switch because i haven't used it in quite a while and i don't really use it as a portable system

[@ian_sear]

Why should a game get a higher score because it's on the Switch and therefore is handheld? You don't do the same for other games on Switch.

[@JimiCanRead]

Really want this on switch but it’s currently free on ps plus and over £30 on switch 😢

[@imaginator85]

Awesome, but I have the VR (definitive) edition so I don't need it.

[@ThatSavoieDude]

Glad to see you used an actual Tetris player to demonstrate the gameplay lol some of these reviews are brutal

[@Mito383]

I’m just wondering if this is worth buying if I already have Tetris Effect on PC. Hopefully this video will help me find out.

[@Kraken54321]

I've just bought it. 👍

[@Ilyb.444]

Is there a differencr between the original tetris effect and the new tetris effect: connected? I have tetris effect on PS4 and am not sure if I should buy tetris effect: connected.

[@Swordman1111]

You should have gotten it via a free update anyway

[@r4b1drabb1t3]

It think the change may have just been adding cross-platform. Could be the multiplayer too, not sure what the original had, I only played connected.

[@Pacmanfan-po9rn]

Needs a physical release, just please not from LRG...

[@markusvhane5087]

Playing this when I'm taking a break in Metroid Dread when I don't know where to go. LOL.

[@danielnavarrete1006]

Will it be physical or only digital

[@MrRudePolite]

I just bought Puyo puyo Tetris like 3 days ago 😩