Key Takeaways:
- Shadow Labyrinth launched globally on July 18, 2025, as a 2D action platformer based on Pac-Man.
- Players control Swordsman No. 8 and Puck, navigating dark labyrinths inspired by classic arcade mazes.
- The game builds on lore introduced in Amazon’s Secret Level series, expanding the franchise into multimedia storytelling.
Set in a moody, labyrinthine world, Shadow Labyrinth introduces players to a new protagonist: Swordsman No. 8, who is guided by a mysterious yellow orb named Puck. No. 8 is able to fuse with Puck to traverse intricate surfaces that pay homage to the original maze-like designs of Pac-Man, but with a modernized, platformer approach.
This evolution of gameplay blends fast-paced action with light puzzle-solving mechanics and environmental storytelling—elements not traditionally associated with the iconic arcade franchise.
Ties to the “Secret Level” Series Deepen the Lore
Shadow Labyrinth is not a standalone reimagining—it builds upon a prequel story told in Amazon’s 2024 streaming series Secret Level, specifically in the Season 1 episode titled “Circle.” The episode laid the groundwork for the game’s characters and world-building, providing fans with narrative context before stepping into the action.
By integrating television storytelling with interactive gameplay, Bandai Namco continues to expand its multimedia approach to beloved IPs, turning Pac-Man into a franchise capable of complex narratives.
Also read: Back to the Dawn Joins Xbox Game Pass with Full 1.0 Release and High Praise from Steam Players
Honoring 45 Years of Pac-Man’s Cultural Impact
Since its debut in 1980, Pac-Man has become one of the most influential video game franchises of all time. The original arcade cabinet sold over 400,000 units and generated $3.5 billion in revenue alone. As of 2016, the franchise had sold nearly 48 million game units and grossed more than $14 billion globally.
Shadow Labyrinth pays tribute to this storied history while introducing a bold new direction that could redefine how audiences experience Pac-Man in the future.
Conclusion: A New Era for an Arcade Icon
With Shadow Labyrinth, Bandai Namco has successfully bridged the gap between nostalgia and innovation. By transforming Pac-Man into a narrative-driven platformer, the game honors the franchise’s legacy while boldly pushing into modern territory.
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