Panel de Pon - Event '98 is a puzzle game developed by and published by Nintendo for their Super Famicom console in Japan. The game was released in 1997 and has since become a cult classic among fans of the genre. In this article, we will delve into the world of Panel de Pon - Event '98, exploring its gameplay mechanics, features, and availability.

Background

Panel de Pon - Event '98 is an enhanced version of the original Panel de Pon game, which was released in 1994 for the Super Famicom. The game's developer, Nintendo, aimed to create a more challenging experience by introducing new levels, enemies, and power-ups. The title "Event '98" refers to the game's release year, making it a unique entry in the Panel de Pon series.

Gameplay Mechanics

Panel de Pon - Event '98 is a puzzle game that challenges players to clear a grid of falling blocks called "Pons." The player's goal is to create sequences of three or more Pons in a row, either horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. When this occurs, the Pons are removed from the grid, and the player earns points.

The game features several power-ups that can be used to aid the player in their quest to clear the grid. These include the "Bomb" power-up, which destroys all blocks on the screen; the "Switch" power-up, which switches two blocks on the screen; and the "Block Breaker" power-up, which breaks a specific block at a random location.

The game also introduces new enemies, such as the "Ghost" and the "Star," which can interfere with the player's progress. The Ghost moves horizontally across the screen, while the Star moves randomly in any direction.

Features

Panel de Pon - Event '98 features several modes of play, including the standard "Normal Mode" and a more challenging "Hard Mode." In Normal Mode, the player must clear as many Pons as possible within a set time limit. In Hard Mode, the game becomes increasingly difficult, with faster-moving blocks and more aggressive enemies.

The game also includes a "Ranking System," which allows players to compete with others for the highest score. Players can earn medals by achieving specific scores, with the highest medal being the "Perfect Medal."

Availability

Panel de Famicom de Pon - Event '98 was released exclusively in Japan on February 26, 1998, as a Super Famicom cartridge. The game has since become a rare collector's item due to its limited release.

The game is rated All Ages by the Japanese rating board, CERO, which means it is suitable for players of all ages. However, due to its simplicity and lack of mature content, the game is unlikely to appeal to older gamers who prefer more complex puzzle games.

In recent years, a fan-made translation patch has been released for the original Panel de Pon game, making it possible for Western gamers to play the game using an emulator or a modified Super Famicom console. However, there is currently no official release of Panel de Pon - Event '98 outside of Japan.

Conclusion

Panel de Pon - Event '98 is a challenging and addictive puzzle game that offers hours of entertainment for fans of the genre. Its unique gameplay mechanics, features, and availability make it a must-have title for any collector of Super Famicom games.

While the game's limited release in Japan has made it a rare collector's item, its availability through fan-made translation patches has opened up new possibilities for Western gamers. As a result, Panel de Pon - Event '98 continues to be celebrated as one of the best puzzle games of all time.

Age Rating

The age rating for Panel de Pon - Event '98 is All Ages by CERO, meaning it is suitable for players of all ages. However, due to its simplicity and lack of mature content, the game is unlikely to appeal to older gamers who prefer more complex puzzle games.

Rating Details:

• CERO (Japanese Rating Board): All Ages
• ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board): E (Everyone)
• PEGI (Pan European Game Information): 3+ ( Suitable for all ages)

Note: The age rating may vary depending on the region and country where the game is released.