Tetris

In 1988, Henk Rogers attends the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas to promote his latest video game. While at the event, he discovers Tetris, a game developed by Russian coder Alexey Pajitnov, which captivates his interest.

Henk learns that Robert Stein has secured worldwide licensing rights to Tetris through a deal brokered with Robert Maxwell and his son Kevin. Recognizing the potential, Henk swiftly acquires the rights for Tetris in Japan.

Henk travels to Nintendo's headquarters in Japan and meets CEO Hiroshi Yamauchi. He pitches Tetris and impressively convinces Yamauchi to pursue a collaborative partnership instead of accepting a buyout offer.

To move forward in producing the Tetris cartridges and arcade machines for Nintendo, Henk pledges his apartment as collateral for a loan. Despite his wife Akemi's concerns, he believes the game will lead to their family's success.

Henk is informed by Kevin Maxwell that the arcade rights to Tetris have been assigned to Sega. This news compels Henk to request his outstanding residuals earlier than planned to restructure his approach.

In Seattle, Henk discovers that Nintendo is launching the Game Boy. He convinces president Minoru Arakawa and senior VP Howard Lincoln to bundle Tetris with the Game Boy, securing the handheld licensing rights.

Henk travels to London to negotiate with the Maxwells, only to find that Stein retains all global licensing rights for Tetris. He makes a bold $25,000 offer for the worldwide handheld rights, hoping for a positive outcome.

Determined to secure the rights directly, Henk travels to Moscow with Kevin. Upon arrival, they begin exploring how to navigate the potentially treacherous dealings with ELORG, the Russian agency responsible for the licensing.

Henk meets Nikolai Belikov, president of ELORG, who reveals that Tetris was only licensed for PC, accusing Henk of theft. Faced with hostility from a KGB agent, Henk remains resolute in his pursuit of the rights.

During his time in Moscow, Henk forms a bond with Alexey Pajitnov as they play the original Tetris. Alexey expresses his frustrations about not receiving royalties for a game he created, revealing the personal stakes involved.

At a dinner in Alexey's apartment, Henk presents collaborative ideas to Alexey while their friendship deepens. But the looming threat of KGB agents creates tension, culminating in a memorable moment of unexpected affection from Sasha.

Henk learns that his negotiations may fall short as the Maxwells are set to finalize their contracts. The struggle for control of Tetris escalates as both Henk and the Maxwells attempt to outmaneuver each other.

In a moment of desperation, Henk and his team consolidate their efforts to present a counteroffer, aiming to secure the licensing rights faster than the Maxwells. This strategic move ultimately leads to a breakthrough.

Following a whirlwind of confrontations, Henk escapes from agents seeking retribution. Upon his return home, he reconciles with his wife and daughter, showing them the success of his endeavors.

The story concludes with the Game Boy’s significant success and Tetris’ enduring legacy, even amidst political upheaval. Henk sends Alexey a Game Boy and tickets to America, celebrating their friendship and shared triumph.