The Tetris Company suggested on Friday, Sept. 4, 2026, that a new White House online game may constitute copyright infringement. The game, titled "Build the Wall," was released as part of an official White House arcade site featuring titles based on the policies of President Trump. The Tetris Company stated it was not involved in the creation of the game and noted that it takes copyright infringement "very seriously."
The White House arcade launched on Thursday, Sept. 3, 2026, with a collection of games emulating classic styles. Among the titles available is "Build the Wall," subtitled "Zombie Border Siege." The game requires players to stack falling blocks to prevent creatures from crossing the southern border. The mechanics, including the game ending when blocks reach the top of the screen, resemble those of Tetris.
A spokesperson for the Tetris Company told Variety that the White House did not authorize or license the Tetris brand or intellectual property for the game. When asked about potential legal action, the spokesperson stated the company is "reviewing the matter." The White House version differs from the original by displaying a "BORDER BREACHED" message when a player loses and incorporating a border security theme.
The potential dispute involves an official government website, whitehouse.gov/arcade, which currently hosts titles that emulate popular games like Tetris, Snake, and Flappy Bird. Tetris Holding LLC is the owner of the rights worldwide, and the Tetris Company is its exclusive licensee. The Tetris Company stated that their brand is intended to bring people together rather than divide them.
It is not yet known if the Tetris Company has formally asked the White House to remove the game. The arcade remains active with other titles including "Rio Run," "Trump Savings Tycoon," "Supply Line," and "Flappy Bill."