Spectrum HoloByte subsequently developed a series of annual spin-off titles for Tetris, and intended to take advantage of improvements in computer technology since the original game's release; for Tetris Classic, they showcased the Video Graphics Array (VGA) standard via illustrations depicting scenes from Alexander Pushkin's poem Ruslan and Ludmila, as well as a soundtrack consisting of selections from Mikhail Glinka's opera adaptation of the poem.

The game received mixed critical commentary; while reviewers appreciated the enhanced presentation and new multiplayer modes, they noted that the gameplay was unchanged from the original version.

[7] Tetris was created in 1985[8] by Alexey Pajitnov, a researcher for the computing center of the Soviet Academy of Sciences, and originally programmed by Moscow State University student Vadim Gerasimov.

This success encouraged Spectrum HoloByte to release annual spin-offs, including Welltris (1989), Faces...tris III (1990), Wordtris (1991), and Super Tetris (1991).

[3][2] From the time of Tetris's creation onward, computer technology advanced, granting improved graphics, audio systems, pointing devices, networks, and processing speeds.

[12] The artwork – created by Charlie Aquilina, Chuck Butler, and Kathleen Thornton[10] – was illustrated in the style of lacquer painting, and depicts scenes from Alexander Pushkin's poem Ruslan and Ludmila.

Lance Elko of Game Players PC Entertainment complimented the play variations and improved look and sound, considering it to be a richer experience than the original version.

[11] Michael S. Lasky of Computer Gaming World was delighted by the background graphics and stated that though the title's enhancements were "basically cosmetic", its addictive nature was preserved by the gameplay's intuitive and deceptive simplicity.

[2] Jeane DeCoster and David Crook of the Los Angeles Times, in a joint review with Super Tetris, found the game to be unchanged from the original version despite the enhanced presentation and added competitive mode.