An Insider’s Look at Henk Rogers and the Iconic Legacy of Tetris
It’s one of the most cherished video games in our cultural lexicon, a classic that has withstood the test of time. The fascinating journey of Tetris closely resembles a gripping Cold War spy thriller, so much so that Hollywood has produced a film to depict it. At the heart of this captivating tale is Henk Rogers, the man who ventured behind the Iron Curtain to negotiate for Tetris, transforming it into a global phenomenon.
After witnessing a dramatized version of his life unfold on the big screen, Rogers felt a compelling need to share more of his extraordinary story. His book, The Perfect Game: Tetris, from Russia with Love, captures this adventure in vivid detail.
In a recent appearance at the Game Developers Conference in San Francisco, Rogers unveiled his book and signed autographs, surrounded by the energy of game demos reminiscent of where it all began for him back in 1988. Our conversation was nothing short of enlightening. Below is an edited transcript of our engaging discussion.
Discovering Tetris
What Drew You to Tetris Amidst the Flashing Lights?
Henk Rogers: At that time, I was running a publishing company in Japan and visiting trade shows to scout for new games. I found myself queuing for the Tetris machine multiple times. By the fourth go, I realized I was hooked! The brilliance of Tetris lies in its simplicity. Unlike most games that require evaluating vast worlds and mechanics, Tetris presents everything you need in a compact way. I trusted my instinct—simple doesn’t mean uninteresting; it opens up the game to everyone.
Why Did Others Overlook It?
Henk Rogers: The leading software company at the time, ASCII, dismissed Tetris as "too retro" in 1988. Guess what? Tetris is still played today, while ASCII is no longer relevant. This game serves as a powerful example against the odds.
Your Thoughts on Retro Gaming’s Resurgence?
Henk Rogers: It’s thrilling! This trend underscores that a game’s effectiveness lies in its playability. When you strip away the flashy graphics, it ultimately comes down to engaging gameplay. Remember, it’s the game that matters!
Tetris on Game Boy
What Were Your Impressions of the Prototype Game Boy?
Henk Rogers: In the movie, it’s depicted with dramatic flair. I remember… it wasn’t color, but the magic of it all lay in its portability and the ability to switch cartridges. I knew Tetris was tailor-made for the Game Boy. The graphics were easy to see, and the gameplay was universal—people from all walks of life could connect with its constructive nature. Construction over destruction—it resonates with our basic human instincts.
What Influenced Your Negotiation Skills?
Henk Rogers: My father was a brilliant salesman. I learned from watching him charm and engage with people. His personality made him likable, and it taught me the value of building relationships.
Tetris: The Movie
What Was It Like to See Your Story Adapted for Film?
Henk Rogers: The film effectively captured the audacity of my journey. Entering the Soviet Union back then was akin to stepping into a high-stakes game. The film accurately portrayed the dangers of dealing with the KGB. They didn’t need guns; their presence was enough to instill fear.
Describe Your Experience Behind the Iron Curtain.
Henk Rogers: Walking into the Soviet Union felt like being in a colorless prison—a stark reality where smiles were scarce. I struggled to connect with locals. However, finding Alexey Pajitnov was like discovering a kindred spirit amidst that stark environment.
Meeting Alexey Pajitnov, the Creator of Tetris
What Was Your First Encounter Like?
Henk Rogers: Alexey is truly a gem—gentle, kind, and soft-spoken. Our personalities couldn’t be more different, but our shared passion for game design united us amidst our differences.
Who’s Better at Tetris?
Henk Rogers: Oh, I am definitely the better player! Alexey would joke about being the best player right after creating the game, but he wouldn’t dare challenge me now!
Writing Your Story
What Inspired You to Write Your Memoir?
Henk Rogers: My grandchildren are growing up, and it’s essential for them to understand how I got here. My children were part of it but never truly knew what I was doing. This book allows me to share my journey with them.
The Game Developers Conference Experience
What Has GDC Meant to You Over the Years?
Henk Rogers: Coming back to GDC feels nostalgic. I have watched it evolve from a gathering of game designers in a small hotel to a massive event dominated by industry giants. It’s refreshing to see indie games taking the spotlight once more.
The importance of New Ideas in Gaming
Henk Rogers: New ideas are the lifeblood of innovation. The industry often leans on successful formulas, but opportunities for creativity thrive in the indie gaming scene. It’s crucial to embrace unique ideas, as it is what makes us human—our ability to create worlds and fantasize.
A Lasting Legacy
Turning Personal Crisis Into Purpose
Henk Rogers: Just a month after selling my game company, I found myself in an ambulance due to a serious heart condition. Surviving that was a turning point. I realized I had unfinished business. I began exploring environmental issues, particularly coral degradation caused by ocean acidification. This realization ignited my passion for advocating renewable energy.
The Epic Win for Our Planet
Henk Rogers: In gaming, there’s a concept called the epic win. We need to apply that mindset to climate change. It’s about taking on the challenge together. If we want a legacy that transcends, we must leverage our talents to fix our world’s problems—that’s the ultimate epic win.
Henk Rogers’ story is not just about a game; it’s a testament to resilience, creativity, and the unyielding human spirit. Whether through Tetris or environmental advocacy, his journey invites us all to reflect on how we can make a lasting impact in our world. Are you ready to take on your own epic win?
