Gamers, are you ready for a labyrinth adventure unlike any other? Bandai Namco Entertainment, through their Bandai Namco Studios, is bringing us a brand-new title that flips a classic on its head — Shadow Labyrinth. Taking inspiration from the familiar world of PAC-MAN, this game boldly plunges into a dark science fiction setting, crafting a uniquely styled 2D action platformer. Just what kind of surprises and challenges will this seemingly familiar maze journey bring? Let’s delve into the shadows.

Alien Awakening, Devour and Evolve

Shadow Labyrinth is a 2D action platformer slated for release on July 18, 2025, on Nintendo Switch™, PlayStation®5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam®. Players will step into the shoes of Swordsman №8, a warrior who awakens on a mysterious planet brimming with relics of ancient wars. Accompanied by a floating yellow orb named PUCK, Swordsman №8 is tasked with a special mission. To survive in this perilous alien world, players must explore uncharted territories, uncover hidden secrets, consume their enemies, and evolve from prey to the apex predator, ultimately embracing their true purpose.

A Maze World of Exploration and Combat

The core gameplay revolves around exploration, combat, and evolution. Players will freely navigate a vast and enigmatic labyrinth world, seeking out new abilities and powers to confront increasingly formidable foes. The combat system is fluid and skill-based, requiring players to master combinations of various weapons and skills to survive in the treacherous environment.

A Dark Sci-Fi Take on a Classic

One of the game’s most distinctive mechanics is the ability to “consume” enemies. By devouring dark creatures, Swordsman №8 can continuously grow stronger, eventually becoming the planet’s apex predator. While the protagonist isn’t the yellow dot we all know, the classic elements of PAC-MAN are cleverly woven into the experience. PUCK serves not only as Swordsman №8’s guide and guardian but also provides a special “Mini PUCK mode.” In this mode, players will navigate specific rails in the classic PAC-MAN style, exploring hidden areas.

Unlock the Powerful GAIA Mech

Adding another layer of excitement, as players progress through the game, they will unlock a powerful mode called “GAIA.” In this form, Swordsman №8 transforms into a colossal robot mech with devastating power, capable of effortlessly taking on even the largest of the game’s bosses. This variety in gameplay modes provides players with a rich and dynamic combat experience.

Unique Dark Sci-Fi Style and Captivating Story

Shadow Labyrinth features a unique dark science fiction art style, creating an alien world filled with mystery and danger. The game’s storyline is also captivating, with players gradually unraveling the secrets of the planet and the reason behind PUCK’s choice of Swordsman №8 as they delve deeper into their exploration.

This is definitely a captivating title!

In conclusion, Shadow Labyrinth, with its unique dark sci-fi setting, innovative devour-and-evolve mechanic, and clever integration of classic PAC-MAN elements, shapes up to be a distinctive 2D action platformer. Whether you’re a fan of platforming adventures seeking a fresh experience or someone with a special fondness for the classic PAC-MAN IP, this is definitely a captivating title! How Bandai Namco Studios will bring a new gaming experience within this familiar framework is truly something to look forward to. Let’s all await July 2025 and step into this shadow-filled labyrinth of secrets!