The pixelated yellow orb known globally as Pac-Man has always been an adaptable icon. From his initial arcade fame of devouring dots and ghosts, he has ventured into racing, puzzle games, and even 3D platformers. Yet, his latest outing, Bandai Namco`s Shadow Labyrinth, launching on July 18, positions him in perhaps his most unexpected role to date: a companion in a Metroidvania-style action-platformer, complete with a swordsman sidekick.
A Labyrinthine Alliance: Pac-Man`s New Role
In Shadow Labyrinth, players step into the boots of Swordsman No. 8, navigating a war-torn planet filled with alien monstrosities. By his side, in a move that might raise an eyebrow or two for long-time fans, is Puck – an alias for our very own Pac-Man. This isn`t the Pac-Man of endless mazes; instead, he serves as a “hungry companion,” presumably aiding the swordsman through his unique, insatiable appetite. The concept itself is a delightful blend of the familiar and the utterly bizarre, offering a fresh perspective on the arcade legend.
The game embraces the core tenets of the Metroidvania genre: intricate side-scrolling environments, a focus on uncovering hidden secrets, and the gradual unlocking of new powers that grant access to previously inaccessible areas. Early reviews, scoring a respectable 74 on Metacritic, suggest that this unconventional pairing works, delivering a solid action-platformer experience that is rated T for Teen, indicating a more mature thematic approach than one might typically associate with Pac-Man.
Future-Proofing Your Adventure: The Nintendo Switch 2 Upgrade
One of the most noteworthy aspects of Shadow Labyrinth, particularly for Nintendo enthusiasts, is Bandai Namco`s forward-thinking approach. Any physical or digital purchase of the game for the Nintendo Switch will include a free upgrade to the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition. This move is not merely convenient; it`s a strategic embrace of future hardware, offering players peace of mind that their investment will transition seamlessly to the next generation of Nintendo`s console. It`s a clever way to incentivize early adoption while subtly acknowledging the industry`s perpetual march forward.
Editions and Accessibility: Choose Your Path
Shadow Labyrinth is remarkably accessible in its pricing, with the standard edition retailing for just $30 on Nintendo Switch and PS5. For those who enjoy collecting physical memorabilia, the Secret Edition at $60 provides a bounty of physical goodies, including a double-sided map poster, a pin set, a blacklight keychain, a digital art book, and a digital soundtrack. For the most dedicated collectors, a $100 Collector`s Edition, exclusive to the Bandai Namco Store, offers an additional Shadow Box, Collector`s Box, and Art Journal. PC players can also join the fray via Steam, often with pre-order discounts. Xbox Series X|S owners, however, will find the game exclusively in digital format.
“Pac-Man`s journey from a hungry yellow circle navigating a maze to a pivotal companion in a dark, war-torn Metroidvania speaks volumes about his enduring appeal and Bandai Namco`s willingness to innovate.”
Celebrating a Legacy: Beyond the Game
Shadow Labyrinth arrives as part of Bandai Namco`s ongoing celebrations for Pac-Man`s 45th anniversary. This milestone is not just marked by a new game but by a variety of themed merchandise, showcasing the character`s lasting cultural impact. Enthusiasts can find special edition PowerA wireless controllers for Xbox/PC and Nintendo Switch, featuring unique lighting effects and enhanced functionalities. For those who prefer softer companions, Banpresto has released a collection of anniversary plushies, including Pac-Man himself and various ghosts. And, for the truly hungry, an official Pac-Man Cookbook is available, ensuring the celebration extends even to the kitchen. These ancillary products underscore the breadth of Pac-Man`s appeal, proving he`s much more than just a video game character; he`s a global phenomenon.
In conclusion, Shadow Labyrinth represents a bold, intriguing step for the Pac-Man franchise. It’s an embrace of a popular genre, a clever integration of a beloved character into a new narrative, and a forward-thinking gesture towards future console generations. As July 18 approaches, players can anticipate an experience that promises both nostalgic nods and innovative gameplay, proving that even after 45 years, Pac-Man still has plenty of surprises left to unveil.
