Tetris 99: 10 Essential Tips & Tricks The Game Doesn't Tell You

6. How To Counter Incoming Lines

When other players send their lines your way, it appears in a small column on the left-hand side of your grid.

Don’t panic, as you have time to counter this incoming hurt.

Clearing lines on your grid will clear out the incoming column. Doubles, Triples, and Tetrises (four lines) will clear more, and combos of these will help too. The incoming lines also dictate when they’re about to appear in your play area through their colour, and the vibration in your controller.

First they’re yellow, then red, and finally they fizzle, before sliding into your grid and ruining your day.

If the lines are grey, they’re still incoming and can be countered, but you don't need to worry too much until they turn yellow. Be wary, however, as this countdown speeds up incrementally as the game continues.

Once you’re in the final 10, you need to be reacting almost instantly to not be pummelled by the competition.