We’ve all played Tetris. The puzzle game where you arrange blocks falling down a well into neat lines that then disappear – we’ve all played it.
There have been numerous core entries in the series, and then hundreds of spinoffs alongside those.
So when it comes to another new title using the core Tetris mechanics, it’s easy to be sceptical. But Minetris is a premium orientated mobile game that uses the Tetris mechanics to do its own thing.
How So?
Minetris isn’t just a high score orientated take on Tetris, but one that uses the blockbusting to take you on an adventure. One down into the tombs of a pyramid, to be exact.
As the game’s developer Carlo Barbarino explains, “The goal isn’t just to break blocks, it’s to uncover the secrets hidden within the pyramid. There’s a story where the Pharaoh of Light is trapped under a curse, and must be freed. With every game played, the Pharaoh regains life, and the ancient pyramid will transform back into its former glory, vibrant and renewed.”
Basically this is no basic take on Tetris you’ll forget after a few minutes. It’s a version you’ll want to keep returning to day after day just to see what new secrets and sights you can uncover.
Dynamic Puzzling
That’s all well and good of course, but this wouldn’t mean anything if the game didn’t feel right. We all know a version of Tetris (or other major puzzler) where the controls felt unresponsive, or there’s a strange wrinkle added to the formula that just makes it all fall flat.
So we’re happy to say that this isn’t the case with Minetris. As Barbarino says, he “always enjoyed the classic Tetris, but found it a bit disappointing that the scene remained static and lacked a storyline. I often came across reimagined versions of Tetris showcasing dramatic visuals where blocks appeared to explode or break apart—features that weren’t actually part of the gameplay. So, I decided to create my own version that brings those dynamic elements to life.”
This means that when lines are cleared, blocks really explode. You feel it happening, and it’s – quite simply – wonderful.
Then there’s atmospheric music, as well as the dynamic camera movements as you progress into the pyramid. It all adds up to create one of the most engaging and intriguing versions of Tetris I think we’ve ever played.
Any Advice?
We’ve played Minetris for a little while, and after speaking to Barbarino have come up with some tips to help new players.
One key piece of advice is to keep the mined area as clear as possible. This is a key spot for quickly breaking down the wall.
Next, take advantage of the fact you can see what the next two blocks are coming. Knowing what is arriving so far in advance – especially early on – can be used to devastating effect.
There’s also a feature called Cascade Gravity, which allows split blocks to fall. It’s best to plan ahead and anticipate which parts of a block might drop when you clear a line.
Anything Else?
Yes! This isn’t a game that’ll be abandoned in a few weeks by the developer too. Barbarino plans to keep updating and tweaking Minetris. Recent updates have improved the UI, added more content, and much more besides.
Better yet – and as mentioned earlier – Minetris is a premium experience on Android and iOS. It has a tiny cost of $0.99, and for that you won’t be bombarded with ads – making it even easier to get drawn into the game’s mysterious world. There’s a lite version on Android if you want to try before you buy however!
