Block Blast!, a block puzzle game similar to Tetris has found popularity in the halls of Millard South, captivating students with its engaging gameplay. Block Blast! Has utilized a variety of different methods to gain such popularity.
Being atop #1 for games on the Apple App Store, it appears that Block Blast! Struck a chord with Gen Z. The vibrant colors, successful ad campaigns, and the lack of Wi-Fi needed appear to be the reasons why the game has reached such a peak. As Natalie Brooks puts it, “It’s a no ad kinda game and I can spend hours on it.” Block Blast has also made use of a very successful ad campaign. On an online survey of 92 people, 27 out of 80 people replied saying they downloaded the game because of seeing an ad for the game pop up.
Block Blast has also made a significant impact in the classroom. According to students, the game has appeared to make them think more strategically. From the same survey, 72.5% noted that they problem-solve more often. Carson Nyffelers notes, “It does help keep your brain flowing if you get bored.” Many students have noted how the game helps with boredom, especially once the schoolwork is done and the lessons are taught. Adalyn Jensen describes, “Usually I only play it in my free time. When I’m in class, it’s not really a big thing.” Other students in the school have expressed similar feelings about how Block Blast has helped with problem-solving while not being a problem in the school.
The game has appeared to create a large fanbase around the game. Several students in the survey noted downloading the game because of seeing friends play it. Charlotte Vanek highlights, “People talk about it, and it’s very similar to Tetris, and I think Tetris is cool.” The game has appeared to create a tight-knit community and fan base around the game. Rylee Gochenour says, “I had a bunch of friends playing it, and it looked fun.”
This makes sense how 42% of all survey responders noted how they played the game for over 30 minutes a day. The game has become an integral part of the lives of many students here at Millard South.