Nintendo is bringing another crossover to Tetris 99 with the announcement of its 51st MAXIMUS CUP online event, this time featuring Animal Crossing: New Horizons. The limited-time event gives Nintendo Switch Online members a chance to unlock a special in-game theme inspired by the life-sim series, continuing the long-running tradition of themed rewards tied to MAXIMUS CUP competitions.
A Limited-Time Crossover for Tetris 99 Players
The 51st MAXIMUS CUP runs from January 8 at 11:00 p.m. PT through January 12 at 10:59 p.m. PT. During this window, players can earn event points simply by playing matches in Tetris 99 mode. Once 100 event points have been collected, the Animal Crossing: New Horizons-inspired theme is permanently unlocked and can be used outside the event period.
The theme is based on updated content from Animal Crossing: New Horizons, adding familiar visuals and audio elements to the competitive puzzle experience. As with previous MAXIMUS CUP rewards, the theme is exclusive to the event and cannot be obtained once the event ends.
Nintendo Switch Online Requirement and Availability
Access to the MAXIMUS CUP requires an active Nintendo Switch Online membership and a Nintendo Account. Tetris 99 itself is available at no additional cost to subscribers, though online play requires an internet connection. Nintendo notes that membership auto-renews unless canceled and may not be available in all regions.
The crossover highlights Nintendo’s ongoing focus on online engagement through timed events rather than persistent live-service updates, a model that remains separate from broader web3 or blockchain-based gaming trends.
Animal Crossing Update Arrives Shortly After the Event
Nintendo also confirmed that Animal Crossing: New Horizons will receive a new update on January 15. While details have not yet been fully outlined, the timing positions the MAXIMUS CUP theme as a lead-in to the upcoming content refresh. Nintendo has encouraged players to check its official website for further announcements related to the update.
Available Versions of Animal Crossing and Tetris 99
Animal Crossing: New Horizons remains available on Nintendo Switch, with a listed regular price of $59.99. Nintendo has also introduced a Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, along with a separate upgrade pack for players moving to the newer hardware. Tetris 99 continues to be positioned as a key benefit of Nintendo Switch Online, reinforcing its role as both a competitive multiplayer title and a platform for franchise crossovers.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Tetris 99 51st MAXIMUS CUP?
The 51st MAXIMUS CUP is a limited-time online event in Tetris 99 where players can earn an exclusive Animal Crossing: New Horizons in-game theme by collecting event points.
How do players unlock the Animal Crossing theme in Tetris 99?
Players must earn 100 event points by playing matches in Tetris 99 mode during the event period.
When does the 51st MAXIMUS CUP take place?
The event runs from January 8 at 11:00 p.m. PT to January 12 at 10:59 p.m. PT.
Is Nintendo Switch Online required to participate?
Yes, an active Nintendo Switch Online membership and a Nintendo Account are required to play Tetris 99 and participate in the MAXIMUS CUP.
Will the Animal Crossing theme be available after the event ends?
No, the theme is exclusive to the event and cannot be unlocked once the MAXIMUS CUP concludes.
When is the next Animal Crossing: New Horizons update releasing?
Nintendo has announced a new update for Animal Crossing: New Horizons scheduled for January 15, with more details to be shared on the official website.
