# The New Tetris (Nintendo 64) Introduction **Release Year:** 1999 **Platform:** Nintendo 64 **Meta Description:** **Tags:** Puzzle, Single-Player, Multiplayer, Retro, Kid-Friendly, Competitive ## Overview *The New Tetris*, released on August 2, 1999, in North America by Nintendo and developed by H2O Entertainment, is a creative evolution of Alexey Pajitnov’s iconic *Tetris* puzzle game. Players stack falling Tetriminos (I, J, L, O, S, T, Z) to clear lines or form 4x4 squares for bonus points, introducing mechanics like hold piece, ghost piece, and wall kicks that later became *Tetris* standards. Featuring a four-player multiplayer mode, real-time scenic fly-bys (e.g., Sphinx, Pantheon), and an electronic dance music soundtrack by Neil Voss, it earned praise for its innovative gameplay (GameSpot: 7.6/10), though some criticized its slower pace compared to classic *Tetris*. Its unique square-building mechanic makes it a standout N64 title. ## Why Play The New Tetris? *The New Tetris* redefines puzzle gaming with fresh mechanics across single-player and multiplayer modes. In single-player, players clear lines or form 4x4 squares (gold for identical Tetriminos, silver for mixed) for massive points, with stages themed around global landmarks. Multiplayer supports up to four players, with modes like no garbage, directed garbage (choose targets with C buttons), or hot potato garbage (random target). Players use the D-pad to move, A/B to rotate, Z to hold, and R for instant drop, with spin moves (wall kicks) breaking blocks for extra clears. Sessions last 10 minutes to hours. Its vibrant 3D visuals and EDM soundtrack appeal to *Tetris DX* and *Captain Tsubasa V* fans, distinct from *Batman: Gotham City Racer*’s racing or *Ninja Gaiden Shadow*’s action. ## Key Features - Form gold and silver 4x4 squares for bonus points - Multiplayer for up to four players with garbage modes - Use hold piece, ghost piece, and wall kicks for strategic play - Clear lines or execute spin moves to break blocks - Scenic fly-bys and EDM soundtrack by Neil Voss - Authentic N64 gameplay on our retro ROM platform ## Play The New Tetris Online Play *The New Tetris* (1999, N64) instantly on Classic Joy Games with N64 emulators. Available on retro platforms with 4.4/5 ratings from 40 votes. Physical copies cost $20-$50 (cart) or $60-$150 (CIB). Use Project64 or RetroArch. Strategy: Save I-Tetriminos in hold for gold squares; in multiplayer, target weak players with directed garbage. Cheat: At title screen, press Up, Up, Down, Down, Left, Right, L, R to unlock all monuments in single-player. Note: Some emulators may lag during fly-bys. Recent X posts praise *The New Tetris*’s multiplayer fun but note its learning curve (*post:0*).[](https://tetris.wiki/The_New_Tetris)[](https://www.amazon.com/New-Tetris-Nintendo-64/dp/B00000K39K) Join Classic Joy Games and build epic squares now!