In this episode of 'The Wild History of Tetris,' hosts Josh and Chuck explore the game's addictive mechanics, cultural impact, and its journey from Soviet creation to global phenomenon. Alexey Pajitnov, the game's creator, simplified an earlier design inspired by Pentomino into Tetris, leading to its immense popularity, especially on the Game Boy. The episode delves into the complex web of licensing rights, highlighting pivotal figures such as Hank Rogers who secured Tetris's Western distribution. Additionally, it addresses psychological effects like the Tetris effect and its therapeutic potential for cravings and PTSD, showcasing the game's lasting significance in both gaming and psychological fields.