Over the years, and various iterations, there have been many subtle changes to the game of Tetris. So much so, that it's actually difficult to find a new release comprised of a pure version. Tetris Splash is the first Tetris game in a while to be almost identical to the original release. For example, the only game type you're given in single player is the standard Marathon mode, so Splash is definitely a barebones take on the classic title. The problem then isn't whether or not it's an objectively good game, but whether or not it's a good value.

From a game play standpoint the highlight of Tetris Splash is the inclusion of multiplayer over XBL for up to six people. There are two multiplayer modes in the game, free-for-all and team play, both of which can understandably get pretty intense. Splash also includes a customizable aquariums which serve as a screensaver/background (this is where the "Splash" comes from.) While it's a secondary function, by unlocking achievements and playing through the game, you can actually populate your aquarium screensaver/background with more fish, locales, and so forth.

Of course customization on XBL wouldn't be complete without the ability to microtransact your way to the prettiest Tetris aquarium available. These additions, which weigh in at 160 MS points and less, include things like different aquariums and fish. None of what you can buy/unlock effects game play in the slightest, however, because the aquarium/screensaver doubles as a backdrop to your play screen it's always visible. Personally, though, I found these additions (the ones you need to buy) trite, but that's probably because I don't like paying for extra content that's largely useless.

Sadly, the game pulls no surprise-attack awesomeness. – You already know exactly what you're getting as you've played it hundreds of times before. The difference here is that it's on the 360 in HD, but because it's Tetris, support for HD is essentially unnecessary. There's barely any meat to the game and as far as extras are concerned it's a lot like horse-armor (paying money for limited visual uniqueness.) But, again, it's Tetris and the game is as fun as you already know it to be. So with that in mind, it's not bad, but it does seem lacking.

Fortunately, compared to most games, Tetris has aged incredibly well due almost entirely to the fact that it has never relied on graphics/add-ons to make it fun. As expected, the biggest hurdle Splash faces is that everyone and their grandmother already owns a copy of Tetris and with a price tag of $10 this game is out of "impulse buy" territory. Make no mistake, Tetris Splash retains the magic that makes Tetris fun... we're just at a point now where most gamers probably have multiple copies of this game.