Everybody’s Golf: Hot Shots Returns September 5 with Pac-Man as a Playable Character

[June 07, 2025 | Earthtechy Gaming News Desk]

Get ready to tee off with a retro twist! Everybody’s Golf: Hot Shots is officially swinging back into action this September — and yes, Pac-Man is joining the game as a playable character. If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to see the iconic yellow pellet-muncher crush a birdie putt, your chance is coming very soon.

Announced during the June 4 PlayStation State of Play, the beloved golf franchise is making a comeback with its most feature-packed entry yet. Titled Everybody’s Golf: Hot Shots, the game is launching on September 4 in Japan and September 5 worldwide for PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam. And if you’re planning to grab it on PS5, there’s even more reason to pre-order — you’ll unlock Pac-Man early as part of an exclusive digital bonus.

As someone who grew up with Hot Shots Golf on the PS1, I have to say, this new entry feels like a full-circle moment — combining the franchise’s classic mechanics with fresh new energy and crossover fun. It’s developed by HYDE and published by Bandai Namco, the very team behind some of gaming’s biggest modern hits, including Elden Ring and Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero. So yeah, expectations are definitely high — and deservedly so.

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A New Generation of Golf Fun

So what’s new in Everybody’s Golf: Hot Shots? For starters, this edition boasts the largest playable character roster in series history, including a vibrant mix of original and guest characters — and of course, Pac-Man stealing the spotlight. While you’ll need to unlock him during regular gameplay, PS5 pre-orders give you a shortcut to get him right out of the gate. It’s still unclear whether the same offer will be available on Switch or PC, so we recommend keeping an eye on platform-specific updates.

The game also features 10 diverse regions from around the globe, each offering its own unique vibe, terrain, and challenge. But that’s not all — Bandai Namco has confirmed that dynamic course conditions like changing weather and different times of day will add new layers of realism and strategy to your shots. Whether you’re up against a drizzle at dawn or clear skies at sunset, every match promises something different.

And if you’re wondering about gameplay, good news: the core mechanics stay true to what fans love — the classic three-tap swing system that feels smooth, responsive, and easy to pick up whether you’re a newcomer or a returning veteran.

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Game Modes Built for Fun — Solo or With Friends

What makes Everybody’s Golf: Hot Shots even more exciting is the variety of game modes designed to fit every kind of player. Want to enjoy a relaxing round by yourself? You can dive into Solo Rounds, where you can focus on improving your timing, mastering each course, and beating your personal bests. Prefer a more competitive experience? The Challenge Mode will pit you against quirky in-game characters as you climb the golfing ranks.

But where this game really shines is in its multiplayer features. You can team up with friends or family in local multiplayer, playing with up to four players using a single controller setup. Or take your swing online, where you’ll face golfers from around the world in real-time. It’s casual, competitive, and most importantly—pure fun.

And if you’re in the mood for something totally out of the box? Wacky Golf is here to spice things up. It’s a twist on traditional gameplay with unpredictable elements that make every shot a surprise. Bandai Namco clearly wants this installment to feel both nostalgic and refreshingly new—and it’s working.

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Visuals, Characters, and the Trailer Buzz

The reveal trailer shown during the PlayStation State of Play gave us a fantastic first look at the game’s polished visuals and colorful character designs. Seeing Pac-Man on the course, draining putts and making his signature sound as he celebrates? That alone had fans buzzing. From tropical beaches to snowy peaks, each of the 10 global regions showcased in the trailer looks distinct and full of charm.

You can tell the devs at HYDE have taken great care in modernizing the game while preserving its roots. The character animations are playful, the environments are vibrant, and everything moves with the smoothness you’d expect from a current-gen release.

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Why This Comeback Means So Much

This isn’t just another sports title dropping onto shelves. Everybody’s Golf has history. It’s been around since 1997 and has always stood out as the arcade golf alternative to the more serious sims. It’s fun, fast, and filled with personality. And now, with Bandai Namco at the helm and fresh momentum from their recent hits, it feels like the perfect time for the series to shine again.

The addition of Pac-Man is more than a cute crossover—it’s a statement. Bandai Namco is leaning into its legendary catalog to breathe new life into beloved franchises. And honestly, seeing one of gaming’s oldest icons on a golf course just feels… right.

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Mark Your Calendar — September 5 is Game Day

So, should you be excited about Everybody’s Golf: Hot Shots? Absolutely. Whether you’re a longtime fan or someone just looking for a lighthearted sports game to jump into, this is shaping up to be a strong contender for the best arcade-style golf title in years.

Launch Dates:

• Japan: September 4, 2025
• Worldwide: September 5, 2025

Platforms:

• PlayStation 5 (digital pre-orders live now with Pac-Man early unlock)
• Nintendo Switch (pre-orders coming soon)
• PC via Steam (pre-orders coming soon)

Whether you’re here for the golf, the nostalgia, or the Pac-Man hype — Everybody’s Golf: Hot Shots is ready to welcome you to the green.