Initially released in Japan as Panel de Pon, Intelligent Systems has brought over their superb, new puzzler Tetris Attack to U.S. shores. In actuality, TA has strikingly little in common with the classic NES-era title that dons its namesake. Blocks rise from the bottom, and it is the player's mission to match the blocks in groups of three or higher based on their matching designs. The crux is thinking far ahead prior to swapping the blocks around, akin to the likes of Bust-A-Move or Dr. Mario. More matches and combos mean a higher score, or in the versus modes, defeating your opponent. This cart allows for a block-bursting good time in solo games against either the clock or a computer-controlled foe, but the two-player head-to-head contests are where the real magic lies.

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The charm of this latest wave of Super NES games is present in spades with Tetris Attack. Its graphics are sharp, bright, and cartoony. The all-star cast of Yoshi's Island is gloriously animated in all facets of the game from its menus to in-game scenes, and even in the background of the block board itself. TA's sound design is memorable and bouncy, too inspired by the lovely adventures of Yoshi and friends. When in danger of losing, the music accelerates and changes to a more dramatic tune, which helps create a sense of urgency during those high-pressure moments. The plethora of options and modes will guarantee that players of all ages will have a welcome place at the table, including those of you who are veterans of the genre. Try out the Vs. Mode on Super Hard mode if you don't believe me!

Printed in Issue #40, August 1996