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Third-party characters are a very rare treat in the world of Super Smash Bros., and it's been made clear by franchise creator Masahiro Sakurai that fans shouldn't expect very many of them. The last iteration of Smash saw Sonic the Hedgehog and Solid Snake added to the fray as guest combatants, while last year's E3 finally invited Mega Man to the crossover-fueled fun. Now it's finally been confirmed that another third-party gaming icon will be rolling onto the roster.

After much speculation (and despite Sakurai stating that despite Bandai Namco aiding with development wouldn't mean it'd receive priority status for guest character inclusion), Pac-Man will be joining the battle alongside the likes of several legendary gaming mascots. Those who were worried that the character's latest Saturday morning-inspired design would be used as a base in Super Smash Bros. can also now breath a sigh of relief, because the game will feature a more retro revision of the pellet-consuming sphere.

To Nintendo's credit, the company has done a great job working on a move set for the Bandai Namco character. While it's traditionally a rather challenging task to find an appropriate arsenal of attacks for a mascot as unique as Pac-Man, Sakurai and company have assembled something wholly unique and nostalgic for fans.

Pacman Super Smash Bros Wii U 3DS Art

 

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Whether it's tossing out fire hydrants or transforming into classic Pac-Man in a hardcore chomping frenzy, longtime fans and followers of the Pac have some seriously cool moves to look forward to. Of course, the confirmation of this newcomer may send off additional warning signs to those hoping to see Snake return to the action — especially after Kojima more or less said he didn't believe the Brawl veteran would be returning — but only time will tell.

For now, Smash fans have been treated to the reveal of Palutena and Mii newcomers, so it's safe to say that it's been a pretty substantial E3 for the games thus far. In the meantime, stay tuned to Game Rant for more news coming from E3 2014.

What do you think of Pac-Man's inclusion in the upcoming Super Smash Bros. games? Any other characters you're hoping to see make their debut?

Game Rant E3 2014 Live Coverage

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Super Smash Bros. on the 3DS will arrive on October 3, 2014, and the Wii U version will hit store shelves in Winter 2014.

Follow Riley on Twitter @TheRileyLittle.