Why did Tetris shut down?

Why did Tetris Shut Down?

A Brief History of Tetris

Tetris, one of the most iconic and beloved video games of all time, has been a staple in the gaming industry for decades. Created in 1984 by Alexey Pajitnov, a Soviet computer programmer, Tetris was initially a simple puzzle game that quickly became a global phenomenon. The game was originally released for the Electronika 60 computer and was later ported to various platforms, including the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) and Game Boy. Its popularity soared, and by 1990, Tetris had become the best-selling video game of all time.

Licensing Issues and the Reasons Behind the Shutdown

However, in recent years, Tetris has faced various challenges, including licensing issues and the rising cost of maintaining the game. The ownership of Tetris has been a topic of debate, with multiple companies, including Henk Rogers’ Tetris Company, claiming the rights to the game. In 2020, EA (Electronic Arts) announced that they would no longer be supporting the Tetris franchise, citing the growing costs of maintaining the game and the increasing difficulty of obtaining new licenses.

A Shift in the Gaming Industry

The rise of new gaming platforms, such as mobile and cloud gaming, has also contributed to the shift away from traditional console gaming. As more players turned to mobile devices, console gaming sales declined, making it difficult for EA to justify the continued investment in the Tetris franchise.

Who Owns Tetris Today?

The Tetris franchise is currently owned by Tetris Holding, a company founded by Alexey Pajitnov and Henk Rogers. Tetris Holding acquired the rights to the game in the late 1990s and has since been responsible for maintaining and licensing the game.

Table of Licensing History

Impact on the Gaming Community

The shutdown of Tetris has left a significant impact on the gaming community, particularly among fans of the classic puzzle game. Many players have expressed sadness and disappointment at the loss of a game that has been a part of their lives for so long.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Tetris shut down due to a combination of factors, including licensing issues, the growing costs of maintaining the game, and the shift towards new gaming platforms. While the game will no longer be supported, its legacy and impact on the gaming industry will continue to be celebrated for years to come.

Additional Interesting Facts

• Tetris has sold over 520 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling video games of all time.
• The game has been released on numerous platforms, including the NES, Game Boy, PlayStation, and Xbox.
• Tetris has spawned numerous spin-offs, including Minecraft, which has sold over 238 million copies worldwide.
• Alexey Pajitnov, the creator of Tetris, was awarded $1 million in royalties by the Soviet government in 1992.