How I Built This with Guy Raz The Tetris Company: Henk Rogers
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Jul 31, 2023 Henk Rogers, the entrepreneur who played a vital role in globalizing Tetris, shares his journey from discovering the game at a convention to navigating complex negotiations for its rights. He recounts his daring trip to Moscow, where he met Tetris's inventor, Alexey Pajitnov, and the obstacles in securing publishing agreements amid Cold War tensions. The discussion also highlights how bundling Tetris with the Game Boy transformed gaming, alongside Henk’s commitment to environmental causes following a life-changing health experience.
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College Focus
- Henk Rogers focused on computer science and gaming in college, creating Dungeons and Dragons aids.
- He prioritized education over core requirements, leading to him not formally graduating.
Gem Trade
- After moving to Japan, Henk Rogers worked in the gem trade with his father for six years.
- He focused on technical aspects, developing new gem-cutting techniques.
First Software Company
- Henk Rogers started a software company in Japan, despite not knowing the local business practices or language.
- SoftBank advised him against using a traditional publisher, simplifying the initial setup.