CAt 42 years old, it is impossible not to love Pac-Man and what he means for the industry. In our review of the collection Pac-Man Museum +we pointed out how the inclusion of the platformer was necessary Pac-Man World, PlayStation original. This game would be remade years later for the Game Boy Advance, in a portable version that tried to capture the same style while sacrificing graphics and levels. His «second» ‘remake’, technically, is Pac-Man World: Re-Pac.
Now Production, the same studio behind Klonoa: Empire of Dreams y Pac-Man Museum +was also commissioned by Bandai Namco to develop a ‘remake’ of Pac-Man World and its separate release is the reason for its absence in the past collection. Under the Unity engine, Pac-Man World: Re-Pac recreates the original game from the ground up with high definition, level redesigns and animated cutscenes. A high generation gap for PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Switch and PC.
Toc-Man, a robotic enemy in the shape of Pac-Man with a “mind” behind him, kidnaps the ghost-eater’s family on his birthday, sending video games’ first mascot on a new quest. As expected and in the same way that Pac-Man Museum + found a solution, Ms. Pac-Man and Pac-Baby are replaced by the Pac-Mom and Pac-Boy designs due to the well-known rights dispute.
A nineties platformer
As 3D platforms, Pac-Man World he did not bet on the same freedoms of a then already revolutionary Super Mario 64. That same 3D linearity of the first PlayStation is found in Pac-Man World: Re-Pac, which visually modernizes the game without touching the basic elements of its level design. Not without applying some cosmetic contributions as in the areas of the hub and other parts of the scenarios.
In that order of ideas, it comes a little closer to Super Mario 3D Land although with the due limitations of the nineties. Being its point of origin, it is not refutable that its linear game style remains intact, after all, a ‘remake’ does not always have to “redo” everything –as in the Capcom case– but is free to only focus on what graphic. However, to Pac-Man World: Re-Pac It wouldn’t have hurt to have some additional content.
Our goal through pirate, ruin, space, funhouse, factory and mansion themed levels is to reach the end and smash the Toc-Man statue. Naturally, the path is full of obstacles, enemies, and simple puzzles. Like finding a type of fruit to open a door or activate colored switches. It’s not a decidedly deep mechanic nor does it need to be given its target audience.
We can also collect the letters of the word PACMAN and at the end of each level play in a slot machine to win extra lives. Getting all the collectibles to get a perfect level is part of the replay value. In the quality of life improvements, not only have some of the routes in the scenarios been organized in a better way, but Pac-Man can levitate for a few moments – Yoshi-style – and thus better hit the jumps between platforms.
Small Re-Pack
Usually Pac-Man World: Re-Pac It is a relatively short game if we only have to go from point A to B. The same thing that happens in other platform titles. The fruit and letter collectibles in each level are the ones that expand the game time, necessary to complete 100% on par with overcoming their respective maze. Each stage has a maze that is reminiscent of classic Pac-Man games with limited lives and finishing it is a complementary challenge.
With the hours of play, the cycle of each level becomes repetitive despite the thematic change. We understand that we cannot judge a title of its time with modern glass. However, when we have 3D exponents like Super Mario 3D Worldwhose scenarios have an enviable playable variety, is a missed opportunity that a ‘remake’ of Pac-Man World It will not alter the formula a bit so that it is not just taking fruits, going back and opening doors.
The only difficulty can fall only from a miscalculated jump due to the 3D perspective, whose camera movement is non-existent. Enemies can be easily defeated and their metal variations are vulnerable to Metal Pac-Man’s same temporary ability. Still, there’s satisfaction in devouring ghosts like a giant Pac-Man and finding the last PACMAN letter, simple as it may seem.
Preserving a classic
If we visually compare this ‘remake’ of a 90s platformer to those of other types Crash Bandicoot o Spyrothe one of Pac-Man World It is a little lower and not for lack of effort. Now Production worked with what was established by Bandai Namco and from the beginning it was clear that it would not be a reimagining, perhaps the main condition. It updated the same original game without having the possibility to expand it, which could be with playable characters, boards or missions.
On the positive side, thanks to this modern relaunch, it helps in its own way to preserve a 90s classic. Plenty of PlayStation games would deserve this same treatment, so when it happens it’s to be welcomed. It may not change lives and those who have never met it and play it will not be as surprised as with any other modern installment, but it helps to take a look at the past and the evolution of the medium. This is because the original textures can be very aggressive to look at today.
Pac-Man World: Re-Pac it is a faithful title and respects its roots, although we wonder if that is enough in these modern times.
Platform titles have come a long way in recent decades and it is necessary to understand that Pac-Man World: Re-Pac not exactly betting on serving novelties at the table. Fully recreate the PlayStation classic with everything and thematic levels, but with fair and improved visual presentation. Its simple gameplay serves to attract new players and the little ones, but do not expect more challenge at least in its first three worlds. A game to enjoy the forty-year-old Pac-Man in a different environment.
Review made with a digital copy of Pac-Man World: Re-Pac for Nintendo Switch brindada por Bandai Namco Entertainment.
