PAC-MAN 99, an online battle royale game featuring the iconic ghost of PAC-MAN, has been a popular feature of the Nintendo Switch Online subscription. However, it’s now heading for discontinuation. Both the distribution of the main game and the sales of its DLC are set to end, marking an end to the 99-player online game.
The game offers unique gameplay elements, such as power cookies that transform ghosts into blue “Frightened Ghosts,” and biting a Frightened Ghost allows the player to send “Jammer PAC-MAN” to their opponent’s way. Alongside these features, PAC-MAN 99 also provides additional customization options through its DLCs, including the ability to change the theme to resemble other classic games such as “Xevious,” “GALAGA,” and “Dig Dug.” There are a total of 20 classic themes available for purchase, offering not only visual changes but also sound alterations.
The discontinuation process will follow a specific schedule. On August 8, 2023, at 8:00 AM PDT, the game will no longer offer paid custom themes. Next, on September 8, 2023, at 8:00 AM PDT, the availability of PAC-MAN 99 Deluxe Pack and PAC-MAN 99 Mode Unlock will cease. Finally, on October 8, 2023, at 9:00 PM PDT, the online services for the main game, along with the distribution of the main game and free custom themes, will end.
Despite the cessation of online services for the main game, those who have purchased the PAC-MAN 99 Deluxe Pack or PAC-MAN 99 Mode Unlock can continue to play CPU BATTLE, BLIND TIME ATTACK, and SCORE ATTACK in an offline mode. Moreover, themes purchased from PAC-MAN 99 can still be used in offline mode. Users should also be aware that any purchased content can be re-downloaded, even after the discontinuation of sales. As the PAC-MAN 99 Deluxe Pack comprises all paid downloadable content, users are advised to avoid duplicate purchases.