For decades, Pac-Man has been synonymous with arcade mazes, gobbling pellets, and outwitting ghosts. A beloved icon, his simple, yet endlessly replayable, formula defined a generation. But what happens when you take this spherical legend and drop him into a sprawling, intricate world of secrets, combat, and interconnected pathways? Bandai Namco dares to answer this question with Shadow Labyrinth, a surprising new Metroidvania title that sees our hungry hero team up with an unlikely partner.
The Unlikely Duo: Swordsman and the Spherical Companion
Launching tomorrow, July 18, Shadow Labyrinth introduces players to Swordsman No. 8, a lone warrior navigating a war-torn planet. By his side, in a move that might raise an eyebrow or two, is Puck – none other than Pac-Man himself. This isn`t your average ghost-chasing affair; Puck serves as the Swordsman`s `very hungry companion,` suggesting his iconic appetite will play a unique role in uncovering the labyrinth`s many secrets and perhaps even consuming enemies or environmental obstacles. The ESRB rating of `T for Teen` signals a departure from Pac-Man`s usual family-friendly escapades, hinting at a darker, more complex narrative than we`ve come to expect.
A Genre Shift for an Icon
The shift into the Metroidvania genre is a bold one for the Pac-Man franchise. Renowned for their non-linear exploration, ability-gated progression, and expansive, interconnected maps, Metroidvanias challenge players to retrace their steps with newfound powers, uncovering hidden pathways and mastering intricate combat systems. Shadow Labyrinth promises precisely this, tasking players with `uncovering hidden secrets and unlocking new powers` as they square off against a `variety of alien monsters.` How Pac-Man’s iconic abilities, beyond mere consumption, will translate into a deeper combat or traversal mechanic remains a tantalizing question.
Accessibility and Future-Proofing: The Nintendo Switch 2 Upgrade
One of the more pragmatic, yet equally intriguing, aspects of Shadow Labyrinth`s release is its multi-platform availability and pricing. Available for Nintendo Switch, PS5, Xbox Series X|S (digital only), and PC, the standard edition retails at a modest $30. For Nintendo Switch players, an especially noteworthy bonus awaits: a free upgrade to the `Switch 2 Edition.` This forward-thinking approach ensures that early adopters won`t be left behind as Nintendo`s next console generation arrives, a welcome gesture in an era of often costly generational jumps.
For those seeking more than just the base game, Bandai Namco offers various editions:
- Standard Edition ($30): The core game experience.
- Secret Edition ($60): Includes a budget-friendly collector’s box with physical goodies such as a double-sided map poster, pin set, and a blacklight keychain, alongside digital extras like an art book and soundtrack.
- Collector’s Edition ($100): An exclusive offering from the Bandai Namco Store, featuring a Shadow Box, Collector’s Box, and an Art Journal.
All preorders across editions also come with an `Original Arcade Sound FX` bonus, allowing players to infuse their modern Metroidvania with classic Pac-Man audio nostalgia.
Beyond the Labyrinth: Pac-Man`s 45th Anniversary Extravaganza
The launch of Shadow Labyrinth isn`t merely a standalone event; it`s a centerpiece of Bandai Namco`s broader celebration of Pac-Man`s 45th anniversary. This milestone has ushered in a range of celebratory products, extending the Pac-Man universe beyond the screen. For dedicated fans, various collaborations include special edition wireless controllers for both Nintendo Switch and Xbox/PC, featuring dynamic lighting technologies. For those seeking tangible mementos, official plushies of Pac-Man and his ghostly adversaries have been released, and for the truly ravenous, an official Pac-Man Cookbook offers a culinary tribute to the pellet-munching hero. These peripherals and collectibles serve as a testament to Pac-Man`s enduring legacy, showcasing his evolution from a simple pixel to a cultural phenomenon.
Initial Reception and What to Expect
Early reviews for Shadow Labyrinth paint a picture of a `pretty decent` game, currently holding a respectable 74 on Metacritic. This suggests a solid, if not revolutionary, entry into the Metroidvania genre, one that successfully marries the unexpected pairing of a swordsman and a perpetually hungry arcade icon. Players can anticipate a side-scrolling experience filled with exploration, combat, and the unique charm that only Pac-Man can bring, even when he`s not busy navigating a maze.
Conclusion
As Shadow Labyrinth prepares for its global debut, it represents a fascinating pivot for the Pac-Man brand. It’s a game that challenges preconceived notions of what a Pac-Man title can be, pushing the boundaries of its iconic character into new mechanical and narrative territories. Whether you`re a long-time Metroidvania enthusiast, a curious Pac-Man devotee, or simply a gamer looking for something genuinely fresh, Shadow Labyrinth certainly warrants a closer look. It might just be the bold, exploratory step Pac-Man needed for his next forty-five years.
Callum Darby