CelebList

About

Alexey Pajitnov is a Russian-American computer engineer and video game designer, best known as the creator of the iconic game Tetris. Developed in 1984 while working at the Dorodnitsyn Computing Centre in the Soviet Union, Tetris became a global phenomenon, captivating players with its simple yet addictive gameplay. Pajitnov's creation has left an enduring legacy in the world of video games, influencing countless developers and entertaining generations of players.

Share

Career Timeline

1984C$0.01M

Created Tetris

Pajitnov develops Tetris while working at the Dorodnitsyn Computing Centre in the Soviet Union. He did not get royalties initially.

1991C$0.05M+$0.04M

Moved to the United States

Pajitnov begins working for game companies in the US after Tetris rights revert back to him.

1996B$0.5M+$0.45M

Joined Microsoft

Pajitnov joins Microsoft to work on game development.

2005B$1M+$0.5M

Left Microsoft

Pajitnov leaves Microsoft to pursue independent game development projects.

2026B$5M+$4M

Tetris Legacy

Pajitnov is celebrated as the creator of Tetris, a globally recognized and influential game.

Related Celebrities

Last updated: February 25, 2026