Puyo Puyo Tetris 2S

More than most, Puyo Puyo Tetris 2S is a tough release to put a score on. Under no circumstances is it a bad game - in fact, it's a pretty darn decent game that's filled to the brim with modes and features to tide puzzle lovers over for the long haul. However, that has everything to do with the solid skeleton of the original Puyo Puyo Tetris 2 and barely anything to do with the minimal additions made to this Switch 2 re-release.For newcomers to the series or those who missed its original release, there's plenty of fun to be had here. For fans who already have the original version on Switch, I struggle to think of a greater waste of Switch 2 gaming funds than this.

A great game somewhat marred by publisher distribution decisions and a lacking online userbase, Puyo Puyo Tetris 2S is a solid and vibrant puzzler with effectively implemented Switch 2 features, a large selection of modes to play, and endless hours of multiplayer potential.

Puyo Puyo Tetris 2S remains a fun and addictive fusion of two iconic puzzle games, offering the same solid gameplay as the original and even the first entry from years ago. Most of the new additions could have been delivered as a free update, making this version hard to recommend to returning players.

Puyo Puyo Tetris 2S refines and refreshes rather than reinvents - it also doesn't make much use of the Switch 2.

For competitive puzzle action fans, the combining of these 2 iconic franchises is still a treat, but people who already have earlier versions may not get enough value out of the upgrade

While I'm baffled at the lack of an upgrade path for previous owners of Puyo Puyo Tetris 2, it doesn't take away from the fact that Puyo Puyo Tetris 2S is a fantastic puzzle game that blends two classic puzzle games in one. Not only that, but the additions are mostly complementary to a base product that was already bursting at the seams with content. However, considering the base version has been discounted as low as AU$10.99, you'd be better off simply buying that and then buying this new version when it's inevitably discounted in a couple of years time.

Puyo Puyo Tetris 2S seems like the game version of redundancy. If you have the first sequel, there is simply no good reason to get this one. This could be the worst thing that's happened between Sega and Nintendo since the "Genesis Does What Nintendon't" commercials.

This is a tough one to recommend. On the surface, it’s great: fun gameplay, solid visuals, and an energetic soundtrack. Puzzle fans will have a blast. However, there’s little to distinguish this from the version already available on the original Nintendo Switch. Since that version is fully playable on Switch 2, it’s arguably the smarter buy. Sure, you’ll miss out on doubles mode, camera features, and slightly faster loading times – but you’ll also save money and have a larger online player base.

Puyo Puyo Tetris 2S delivers exactly what it promises: a casual and fun experience with good replay value. It is a game that does not take itself too seriously, and it does not need to. Its value lies in providing quick and engaging matches. With more attention to localization and online matchmaking, it could become one of the essential titles of the new generation on the Switch. For now, it is a good choice for those who enjoy puzzles and appreciate local multiplayer.

Puyo Puyo Tetris 2S refines the puzzle experience with sharper visuals, a new game mode, and Switch 2-exclusive features. While it remains fun and accessible, it doesn’t add much for returning players. The lack of crossplay is especially disappointing and splits the community right from the start.