Final Tetris DS Modes Revealed

A few weeks ago, Nintendo hit us with a slew of new info and media for its forthcoming handheld title, Tetris DS. We got a glimpse at some of the modes featured in the game, knowing that there were other gameplay settings that we aren't currently aware of. Well today we've received word on two additional modes available in the game; a Mission Mode and Catch Mode.

Now we already know about Standard, Touch, Push, and the various Multiplayer settings (refresh your memory here if you need to), so what more do these new modes have to offer?

Well the first one, being Mission Mode, should be pretty obvious considering the name, though you may be wondering what kind of missions would ensue during a Tetris game? Essentially the game will pit you with a variety of tasks to complete during what would otherwise be standard Tetris fare (ie. organize falling blocks). The tasks given may be in the form of completing a line using only one shape of block, or being limited to not being able to use some of the easier pieces, like the line shape. A health bar reminiscent of the one seen in Zelda titles is displayed at the bottom of the screen, continually depleting and acting as a timer for your task. When the objective is completed, you move on to the next one, and so on.

Catch Mode, on the other hand, will have players try to form clusters from Tetris pieces as they fall down. Rather than moving the individual pieces, however, you must move the cluster around the screen to catch the pieces.

Tetris DS is due out March 30, and don't forget to watch for the free downloadable demo soon to be available at participating North American retailers.