Shadow Labyrinth is a completely unexpected offering from Bandai Namco, reinventing Pac-Man like we’ve never seen before. This time, our beloved yellow icon finds himself in a futuristic, post-apocalyptic world, far removed from the colorful mazes that made him famous. But it’s not just the setting that’s different, this version of Pac-Man is a drastic reimagining.
The story picks up after the episode Pac-Man: Circle from the series Secret Level, which acts as a prologue. In this new world, the player awakens as a silent protagonist guided by Puck, a yellow sphere determined to help you escape the planet. Together, you’ll face a wide range of enemies, from organic creatures to cybernetic foes.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the game is that it’s set in the same universe as classics like Galaga, StarBlade, and Galaxian. The visual style blends modern and archaic elements, creating a truly unique atmosphere. The soundtrack, composed of remixed tracks from various classic franchises, hits hard on the nostalgia.
Gameplay-wise, Shadow Labyrinth follows the Metroidvania formula, requiring you to explore different areas, defeat bosses to gain new abilities, and revisit previous zones to uncover secrets. All of this takes place on a 2D plane with platforming elements. The initial combat is simple sword attacks, a shield, and dodging, but it evolves as you progress. A standout mechanic is the ability to transform into Pac-Man to move through narrow spaces, reminiscent of Samus’s morph ball in Metroid. This form also plays a key role in challenges inspired by classic levels, where eating ghosts or activating traps becomes essential to defeating bosses.
Additionally, Puck can transform into a beast-like robot capable of obliterating enemies, giving you an edge in tougher encounters. Unlocking the ability to devour enemies allows you to gather resources used to upgrade your skills. While many of these mechanics may not feel groundbreaking to seasoned players, their execution combined with the art style, franchise references, and adrenaline-fueled combat makes for a fresh and exhilarating experience.
Unfortunately, the game’s biggest weakness lies in its story. Puck is a dubious guide who withholds valuable information and sometimes seems to lead you into traps on purpose. The real narrative unfolds only through interactions with other characters, which can make the plot feel confusing at times.
Despite these narrative shortcomings, Shadow Labyrinth is an incredibly satisfying experience. Its bold new direction is exactly what Pac-Man needed to reconnect with longtime fans. What could have been a failed experiment instead turns out to be a surprising and effective reinvention.
Final Score: 4/5
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