Tetris Turns 30, Creator Says He Still Plays Every Week

Iconic tile-matching strategy game Tetris was released on this day in 1984, meaning it is now some 30 years old. In a statement sent to media today from The Tetris Company agent Blue Planet Software, creator Alexey Pajitnov says, "I never imagined Tetris was going to be this successful."

Indeed it was successful. The latest numbers from The Tetris Company show that Tetris has seen more than 425 million paid downloads for mobile devices to date.

"The simple, yet addicting nature of Tetris still has me playing it a few times every week,” Pajitnov added. "I meet fans from around the world who are also as passionate about Tetris as me, and there is no doubt in my mind Tetris will continue to expand and bring its classic appeal to new players in new ways and on new devices, whatever they may be.”

Blue Planet Software envisions another 30 years of Tetris through new video games and licensing arrangements. Ubisoft just this week announced Tetris Ultimate for Xbox One and PlayStation 4, while Electronic Arts recently added a new mode to Tetris Blitz for iOS and Android called Retro Blitz to mark the 30th anniversary. On top of that, Tetris Online, Inc. has updated its Facebook game Tetris Battle with themed content, while new game Tetris Battle: Fusion is now available to play on Amazon Fire TV.

Outside of gaming, costume company Rosta Imposta has announced a new line of Tetris-themed Halloween costumes and accessories, while retailer Robe Factory recently revealed special Tetris-themed robes and slippers, as well as shower curtains, towels, and rugs. Leggings, socks, and footwear are also in the works.

"Our theme for the 30th Anniversary of Tetris is 'We All Fit Together.' It speaks to how Tetris transcends cultures and language, and will continue to be fun for anyone, anywhere to play for generations to come," Blue Planet CEO Maya Rogers said. "We all have an inherent desire to create order out of chaos--whether in playing a game or packing the trunk of your car. No matter where the game is played or brand is celebrated, there will always be Tetris."

When was the last time you played Tetris? Let us know in the comments below!