Nintendo announced today that it will bring a new version of Tetris the game that sold the first Game Boy to the Nintendo DS before the first quarter of 2006 is up.
Tetris DS is, in Nintendo's words, a "new spin on the classic". Each of the game's six modes of play is themed based on a popular Nintendo franchise, such as Mario, Zelda, or Metroid. It sounds like Nintendo's opted to not mess with the traditional formula, saying the "traditional Tetriminos and line-clearing strategy remain the staples of the game." The game also includes touch control, though it's unclear how such an option would work.
Additional game modes include special puzzles to solve as well as head-to-head 2-10 player action, possible in Download Play mode with a single game card. Tetris DS will also support the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection, enabling 2-4 player online matches.
Tetris DS is set to release in North America March 20, 2006.
Update: Since the original release, Nintendo's also posted some screenshots of the game for your viewing pleasure.
