PAC-MAN arrives home on his birthday to find the Ghosts have kidnapped PAC-MAN’s family and ruined his party! Off to the rescue, PAC-MAN sets out to Ghost Island!
Players praise the platforming mechanics, noting the controls feel tight and responsive, allowing for precise jumps and movements. New techniques like the "butt-bounce" and "hover-jump" provide additional traversal options, enhancing the challenge without becoming frustrating. Reviewers highlight the well-designed levels, which present a variety of obstacles and environmental puzzles that test players' platforming skills in engaging ways.
Exploration is a key aspect, as players can scour levels to uncover hidden paths and secrets while gathering PAC-DOTS, fruit, and letters to increase their score. Reviewers describe a genuine sense of satisfaction from thoroughly combing each stage, motivated by the desire to rescue PAC-MAN's kidnapped family members.
Boss encounters have received significant improvement, with reviewers noting they are now fair and challenging. Players must learn and overcome the unique attack patterns of each foe, singling out the battle against the main antagonist, TOC-MAN, as a particular highlight due to its creativity and design.
After completing the main quest, players can access the classic PAC-MAN arcade game as an unlockable bonus mode. Reviewers appreciate this inclusion, as it allows them to experience the timeless maze-based gameplay alongside the 3D platforming adventure, providing a well-rounded and nostalgic experience for fans of the series.