Jonas Neubauer

Jonas Neubauer 2018 crop

Jonas Neubauer (1981 – January 4, 2021) was an American Tetris player, widely regarded as one of the greatest classic Tetris players of all time. He was known for his quick thinking, precision, and strategic skill in playing Tetris, the popular tile-matching video game that has captivated players since the 1980s. Neubauer's legacy in the Tetris community is marked by his multiple championships and his role as a mentor and inspiration to players worldwide.

Early Life

Jonas Neubauer was born in 1981. Little is publicly known about his early life before he rose to prominence in the Tetris community. His passion for video games, particularly Tetris, began at a young age, setting the stage for his future accomplishments.

Career

Neubauer's competitive Tetris career took off when he won the Classic Tetris World Championship (CTWC) in 2010, an event held annually in Portland, Oregon, that gathers the best Tetris players from around the world to compete in the classic version of the game. He went on to win the championship seven times (2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016, and 2017), showcasing his unparalleled skill and consistency in the game.

His playing style, characterized by aggressive play and the ability to 'tuck' pieces in tight spaces, was admired by many in the Tetris community. Neubauer also held several records in Tetris, including achieving the fastest time to reach 300,000 points in classic Tetris.

Beyond his achievements in competitions, Neubauer was known for his positive attitude, sportsmanship, and willingness to share his knowledge with others. He was a prominent figure in online Tetris forums and social media, where he offered advice and encouragement to both new and experienced players.

Legacy

Jonas Neubauer's sudden death on January 4, 2021, shocked and saddened the Tetris and broader gaming community. Tributes poured in from around the world, highlighting his impact not only as a competitor but as a person who brought the community together. The CTWC honored him by establishing the "Jonas Neubauer Memorial Award" for outstanding sportsmanship, reflecting his positive spirit and contributions to the Tetris community.

Neubauer's legacy extends beyond his tournament victories. He is remembered for his role in popularizing competitive Tetris and inspiring players to pursue excellence with humility and respect for others. His YouTube channel and Twitch streams, where he shared gameplay, tips, and engaged with fans, continue to inspire and educate Tetris players.

See Also

• Classic Tetris World Championship
• Tetris
• Video game competitions