Pac-Man: Shadow Labyrinth Launches with Unique Twist
While Pac-Man has graced various game genres since his arcade debut, Bandai Namco`s upcoming title, Shadow Labyrinth, might be his most peculiar adventure yet. This ESRB-rated T (for Teen) action-platformer sees Pac-Man joining forces with a swordsman. Shadow Labyrinth, a side-scrolling Metroidvania, has garnered respectable reviews (Metacritic score of 74) leading up to its July 18 release. Fans of both Metroidvania and Pac-Man still have an opportunity to secure exclusive preorder bonuses, alongside discounts for PC versions or cost-effective collector`s editions for consoles.
Every preorder for Shadow Labyrinth comes with the `Original Arcade Sound FX` bonus, which, as implied, unlocks Pac-Man`s classic sound effects from his arcade prime.
Shadow Labyrinth is affordably priced, with its standard physical edition for Nintendo Switch or PS5 retailing at just $30. A $60 `Secret Edition` collector`s box offers a variety of physical collectibles, including a double-sided map poster, a pin set, and a blacklight keychain. Both physical and digital Switch versions of Shadow Labyrinth come with a complimentary upgrade to the Switch 2 Edition. For Xbox Series X|S, the game is exclusively available digitally.
PC gamers can also find savings on Steam keys for both the Standard and Deluxe Editions. The Standard PC version is priced at $25.19 (originally $30), and the Deluxe Edition for PC is available for $33.59 (originally $40).
An exclusive $100 Collector`s Edition, available only through the Bandai Namco Store, includes a Shadow Box, a special collector`s box, and an art journal. This premium edition is offered for Nintendo Switch, PS5, and PC (via a Steam key).
This new 2D action-platformer is set on a war-torn planet. True to the Metroidvania genre, the gameplay emphasizes discovering hidden secrets and acquiring new abilities. Players assume the role of Swordsman No. 8, confronting various alien creatures with the assistance of their perpetually hungry companion, Puck (Pac-Man).
Pac-Man Special Edition Wireless Controllers
As part of the 45th-anniversary celebrations for the iconic arcade hero, Bandai Namco has released more than just a game. In collaboration with PowerA, two stylish wireless controllers were launched for Nintendo Switch and Xbox/PC.
The PowerA Enhanced Pac-Man Controller for Switch (and Switch 2), priced at $54.55 (down from $65), has frequently sold out since its April debut. It features PowerA`s `Lumectra` lighting technology, capable of displaying classic arcade game moments.
The Pac-Man-themed PowerA Xbox controller, available for $84 (originally $100), offers advanced features, including four remappable back buttons, Hall Effect sticks and triggers, trigger locks, and three custom profiles. It also boasts unique lighting effects, glowing in the dark and fluorescing under UV light. This is a solid pro-style wireless controller for the price.
Pac-Man 45th Anniversary Merchandise
Bandai Namco, through its Banpresto subsidiary, has also launched a collection of plush toys. While some ghost characters are currently out of stock, Pac-Man and a few other ghosts are still available:
- Pac-Man 45th Anniversary Big Plush — $30
- Clyde Ghost Big Plush — $28.62
- Silver Ghost Big Plush — $27
- Blue Ghost Big Plush — $21.60 (originally $27)
- Ghost 45th Anniversary Big Plush (Ver. B) — $30
Additionally, the recently published official Pac-Man Cookbook can be purchased in hardcover for $28.79 or as a Kindle e-book for $13, perfect for those as hungry as Puck!