Shadow Labyrinth Launches on Nintendo Switch: Bandai Namco's Metroidvania Revitalizes Pac-Man Legacy

Bandai Namco has officially launched Shadow Labyrinth, bringing a bold twist to the beloved Pac-Man franchise with an all-new Metroidvania experience.

Released today for both the Nintendo Switch and the latest Switch 2, Shadow Labyrinth celebrates decades of gaming heritage while charting a fresh course in 2D action platforming.

Shadow Labyrinth sets players in the role of Swordsman No.

8, who awakens in a forsaken world, guided by Puck—a mysterious companion reminiscent of Pac-Man’s history.

To survive in this dangerous landscape, players must defeat menacing creatures, consume their abilities, and evolve.

The objective is not only to overcome the world’s threats but also to unravel its deep-rooted mysteries.

Bandai Namco achieves an intricate blend of classic 2D platforming, challenging exploration, and thoughtful environmental puzzle-solving, all within a maze-like world brimming with secrets. Throughout the adventure, players earn new abilities and weapons, expanding their toolkit for navigation and combat.

One standout feature is the ability to transform into GAIA, a powerful mech form that dramatically shifts the dynamics of gameplay and exploration.

The game also reimagines Pac-Man’s iconic antagonists: the GHOSTS appear as formidable foes called G-HOSTS, giving longtime fans a nostalgic nod while introducing them to dynamic boss encounters unique to Shadow Labyrinth. In a recent statement, Bandai Namco emphasized their commitment to reviving the spirit of their classic games within this new title.

The company noted that "Shadow Labyrinth draws deeply from the DNA of Pac-Man and our original franchises, fusing pursuit-driven gameplay and dynamic combat within a modern Metroidvania framework.

We invite players to uncover the layers of nostalgia and innovation woven into every aspect of the world." Expanding beyond Pac-Man, the world of Shadow Labyrinth is enriched by references to other legendary Bandai Namco franchises, including GALAGA, DIG DUG, BOSCONIAN, and SPLATTERHOUSE.

These integrations not only build an expansive universe for players to explore but also raise the stakes and engagement for fans of the company’s classic arcade lineage. The gameplay of Shadow Labyrinth is designed to present an escalating challenge.

As players delve deeper into the labyrinthine world, they face increasingly complex enemies and puzzles that demand creativity and mastery of new skills.

The narrative unfolds as players journey further, revealing both the mysterious origins of the planet and the true nature of Puck’s connection to its history. Shadow Labyrinth is now available for purchase digitally via the Nintendo eShop, compatible with both the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2.

For fans eager to experience a fresh take on Pac-Man and enjoy a deep Metroidvania adventure filled with classic Bandai Namco touchstones, this title marks an essential new chapter.

Continued coverage on both consoles, their games, and future Bandai Namco projects can be found through upcoming Nintendo Direct presentations and official channels.

Nintendo Switch 2 Nintendo Switch Nintendo Bandai Namco Switch 2 Switch Namco Metroidvania Shadow Bandai Pac-Man Shadow Labyrinth platformer action platformer