Tetris Creator Joins Microsoft

The man who created the computer game Tetris has joined Microsoft’s games group, the software company said Wednesday.

Alexey Pajitnov thought up Tetris while living in the former Soviet Union in the 1980s. He is a co-owner of The Tetris Co. and will continue that work, Microsoft said, while working for Microsoft to develop a new series of computer mind-teasers and puzzles.

“Alexey’s is one of the most original minds in the business,” said Ed Fries, general manager of the games group. “We’re delighted to have him contribute his unmatched knowledge and experience to help us create exciting new games.”