Shadow Labyrinth might be one of the most unexpected releases in 2025 but brings classic gameplay into a new light.

This unusual reimagining of Pac-Man sees you play as Swordsman No.8, awoken by a yellow orb, PUCK, and are chosen to be an ‘instrument of its will’

Just like PAC-MAN, you consume enemies and grow ‘from prey to the apex predator’. In the platformer, you also gather powerful abilities and excercise combat, using those abilities and skills to defeat your enemies and ’embrace your true purpose’.

The game looks like a fascinating blend of classic PAC-MAN and a modern day platformer and if you pick up the Digital Deluxe Edition, not only do you get an artbook and OST, but also an Original Arcade SFX DLC pack.

Why’s this interesting? It basically adds the original PAC-MAN sounds to this world, changing the in-game sound effects to PAC-MAN effects. Really cool!

Shadow Laybrinth definitely piques my interest and might just be one of the most unique takes on this franchise yet. Definitely befitting a 45th Anniversary and i’m certainly vibing with this DLC.

Shadow Labyrinth launches on July 18 for PC, PS, Xbox and Switch 1,2.