Shadow Labyrinth, Bandai Namco Entertainment’s newest take on the PAC-MAN universe, has officially launched across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC via Steam, and both the Nintendo Switch 1 & 2. This dark 2D action-exploration platformer seeks to blend nostalgic elements of the franchise with a more distinct design, thrusting players into a hostile, maze-filled world where survival hinges on combat, evolution, and uncovering ancient secrets.
Players step into the role of Swordsman No. 8, awakened in a desolate, cryptic world and guided by a mysterious floating companion known as PUCK. In order to thrive and ultimately dominate the planet, players must hunt monstrous foes, absorb their power, and unlock powerful new abilities. The game introduces a unique transformation mechanic, allowing players to shift into a formidable mech form called GAIA, opening up new combat and traversal strategies.
The world of Shadow Labyrinth is a sprawling, interconnected maze that encourages exploration, environmental puzzle-solving, and relentless combat. Though reimagined through a darker lens, they hope that PAC-MAN’s influence pulses through the game’s pursuit-driven gameplay, enemy design, and boss encounters – most notably in the presence of the iconic GHOSTS, now rebranded as menacing G-HOSTS.
In addition to PAC-MAN references, players can expect homages to other Bandai Namco classics like DIG DUG, SPLATTERHOUSE, GALAGA, and BOSCONIAN, enriching the game’s grim atmosphere with subtle nods to arcade history.
To celebrate the launch, all editions of Shadow Labyrinth come bundled with the PAC-MAN Arcade Sound FX Pack as a limited-time bonus, offering players the chance to layer their experience with the soundscape of the original arcade game.
