Forget everything you know about PAC-MAN. This isn’t about chomping dots and running from ghosts anymore.
Shadow Labyrinth launched July 18, and it’s nothing like the yellow circle you remember. Bandai Namco took their most recognizable character and threw him into a sci-fi horror world where survival means becoming a predator.
From Netflix Short to Full Game
This dark reimagining started as a Netflix short before becoming a full game. Bandai Namco expanded the concept into part of their United Galaxy Space Force (UGSF) series—a connected universe that links multiple franchises together.
You play as Swordsman No. 8, guided by a floating orb called PUCK through a maze-filled alien planet. Instead of eating dots, you’re hunting monsters with a sword. The game mixes 2D platforming with exploration and environmental puzzle-solving—think more like exploring a haunted house than racing through arcade levels.
What Makes This Different
The familiar PAC-MAN DNA is still there. You’ll recognize the maze layouts and pursuit gameplay. But now the ghosts are called G-HOSTS, and they’re genuinely terrifying. Other classic Bandai Namco games show up too—GALAGA, DIG DUG, BOSCONIAN, and SPLATTERHOUSE all get nods throughout the world.
Combat feels weighty. Each sword swing has impact, and you’ll unlock new abilities as you explore deeper into the labyrinth. There’s even a mech transformation called GAIA that changes how you approach fights entirely.
The difficulty doesn’t mess around. Early players describe it as “punishing but fair”—you’ll die, but it won’t feel cheap. Boss battles require strategy, not just button mashing.
Multiple Ways to Experience It
The game’s available in several editions across platforms:
Digital Standard Edition includes the full game on all platforms for $29.99. The Digital Deluxe Edition ($39.99) adds a digital artbook, soundtrack, and bonus in-game items—but it’s only available on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Switch, and PC.
Physical collectors have more options. The Physical Standard Edition comes in a case for PS5 and Switch only. The Secret Edition steps things up with custom enamel pins, iridescent and glow-in-the-dark stickers, a themed booklet case, and a double-sided poster. That poster includes UV-reactive print with hidden secrets revealed by an included UV-light keychain—you see hidden details through PUCK’s eye.
The top-tier Collector’s Edition (exclusive to the Bandai Namco store) includes everything from the Secret Edition plus a premium art journal with concept art and blank graph paper for mapping your journey. It comes in a custom collector’s box with a layered shadow box featuring UV-reactive artwork. This edition’s available for PS5, Switch, and PC only.
Mixed First Impressions
Critics are split. OpenCritic shows a 75/100 average, with Metacritic around 70. Some call it a “Metroidvania masterclass” while others find it “boring” and “clunky.”
IGN’s review-in-progress notes strong animation reminiscent of Salt and Sanctuary but flags early frustrations. PC Gamer and PCMag point out unsatisfying progression and perks that lack impact. Nintendo Life appreciates the varied environments and narrative depth.
Players on Steam give it 51% positive reviews. The main complaints? Combat feels wimpy to some, navigation can be frustrating without waypoints, and the writing takes itself too seriously. Some describe it as “hella dry and shallow” in early hours.
But fans of challenging exploration games are finding plenty to love. One player enjoyed it so much they’re planning to replay it on other platforms. Others praise the “cool aesthetic” and smooth gameplay that avoids unnecessary frustration.
Performance Issues on Switch 2
Switch 2 players report lag during room transitions. PC and PS5 seem to run smoother, with good performance noted on Steam Deck too. Some UI and sound effect choices feel odd across all platforms.
Switch owners get free upgrades to Switch 2 if they decide to move platforms.
Should You Play It?
Shadow Labyrinth works best if you approach it as a new game that happens to use PAC-MAN characters, not as a PAC-MAN game trying something different.
If you love tough Metroidvania games with environmental puzzles and don’t mind some rough edges, it’s worth checking out. The atmosphere is genuinely unsettling, and when the combat clicks, it feels great.
But if you want classic PAC-MAN fun or hate getting lost in maze-like worlds without clear waypoints, this probably isn’t for you.
The game’s available now on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Switch, Switch 2, and PC via Steam. You can watch the launch trailer on YouTube to see the dark transformation in action.
It’s weird seeing PAC-MAN wielding a sword in a horror setting. But sometimes weird works—especially when it’s part of a bigger connected universe.