The Trump administration removed an arcade-style video game titled “Build the Wall” from its official website on Monday, shortly after the Tetris Company raised concerns regarding copyright infringement.
The game, which was part of a collection of interactive entertainment posted to the White House site, drew criticism for gameplay mechanics that closely mirrored the classic puzzle hit Tetris. Players were tasked with stacking blocks of various geometries, a core feature protected by The Tetris Company, which holds the intellectual property rights to the original franchise.
In response to the controversy, the Tetris Company issued a statement via Instagram clarifying that it had no involvement in the development of the controversial title. “We take copyright infringement very seriously,” the company asserted.
Kotaku reported that the web page hosting the game now returns a 404 error, indicating the content is no longer accessible. As of publication, the White House has not provided an official comment on the takedown.
Despite the removal of “Build the Wall,” another game remains live on the government website. Titled “Rio Run,” the title tasks players with controlling a character described as a white male in order to deport immigrant characters.
The Tetris Company really has lawyers for everything. I never thought I’d see a White House takedown over falling blocks!
Wait, so the border-themed game stays up but the block-stacking one gets removed? That’s a weird double standard, honestly.
Can’t believe they actually took it down. The copyright claim is valid, but the timing feels pretty suspicious here.