Summary
- Release Year: 1992
- Genres: Puzzle, Strategy
- Platforms: DOS
- Developers: David Pritchard
- Publishers: David Pritchard
Ultris: The Ultimate Tetris (1992)
Ultris: The Ultimate Tetris is a puzzle game developed by BPS and published by Acclaim Entertainment for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). It was released in 1992 and is an updated version of the classic Tetris game.
Gameplay
The goal of Ultris is to make solid horizontal lines by moving and rotating falling blocks, or tetrominoes. When a line is completed, it disappears and the blocks above it fall down. The game ends when the blocks stack up and reach the top of the playfield.
Ultris introduces several new features to the Tetris formula. One of the most significant is the ability to store a block for later use. This can be done by pressing the L or R button to move the current block to the storage area. The stored block can then be recalled at any time by pressing the same button again.
Another new feature in Ultris is the ability to rotate blocks both clockwise and counterclockwise. This gives players more flexibility in positioning blocks and completing lines.
Ultris also features a variety of different game modes, including:
- Marathon: The classic Tetris mode where players must clear as many lines as possible before the blocks stack up.
- Ultra: A faster-paced mode where the blocks fall more quickly.
- VS: A two-player mode where players compete to clear the most lines.
- Puzzle: A mode where players must clear specific patterns of blocks.
Reception
Ultris was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its addictive gameplay, innovative new features, and impressive graphics and sound. The game was also a hit with Tetris fans, who appreciated the new challenges and variations on the classic formula.
Ultris has been ranked as one of the best Tetris games ever made. It was included in IGN’s list of the “Top 100 SNES Games” and GamesRadar’s list of the “Best Tetris Games of All Time.”
Legacy
Ultris had a significant impact on the Tetris franchise. Its new features, such as the ability to store blocks and rotate them both clockwise and counterclockwise, became standard in future Tetris games. The game also helped to popularize the Tetris VS mode, which has become a staple of the franchise.
Ultris remains a popular game today, and it is still enjoyed by Tetris fans around the world. The game is available on a variety of platforms, including the SNES, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices.
Tips for Playing Ultris
Here are a few tips for playing Ultris:
- Learn to store blocks. The ability to store blocks is one of the most important new features in Ultris. It allows you to save a block for later use, which can be very helpful in completing lines and avoiding game overs.
- Rotate blocks both clockwise and counterclockwise. This gives you more flexibility in positioning blocks and completing lines.
- Plan ahead. It is important to think ahead and plan your moves carefully. This will help you to avoid getting into situations where you cannot complete lines.
- Don’t be afraid to use the Ultra mode. The Ultra mode can be a great way to rack up points quickly. However, it is important to be careful not to get overwhelmed by the faster speed.
- Practice makes perfect. The best way to improve at Ultris is to practice regularly. The more you play, the better you will become at recognizing patterns and making quick decisions.
Conclusion
Ultris: The Ultimate Tetris is a classic puzzle game that is still fun to play today. With its addictive gameplay, innovative new features, and impressive graphics and sound, it is easy to see why this game has stood the test of time. If you are a fan of Tetris, or if you are looking for a challenging and rewarding puzzle game, then I highly recommend checking out Ultris.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
