PAC-MAN WORLD 2 Re-PAC

I went into PAC-MAN WORLD 2 Re-PAC with a backpack full of PS2 memories, and I left with a strange mix of glee and grumpiness. The remake modernizes a beloved 3D platformer: polished graphics, added mechanics and extra content that sometimes feels inspired and other times oddly overbearing. If you loved the original’s charm, this version will tick many boxes—but it also tinkers with things that didn’t need tinkering. It’s a spirited revival that doesn’t always get the tone right, yet often entertains.

Rolling Through PAC-LAND

PAC-MAN WORLD 2 Re-PAC plays like a textbook 3D platformer of the early 2000s, but with a modern sheen. You run, chomp, butt-bounce, rev-roll and use a handful of new actions to navigate set-piece levels: tree-top leaps, ice skating, submarine sections and lava-strewn jumps. Levels are linear with exploration pockets—expect hidden collectables, side rooms, and challenge runs. Controls feel snug for the most part; Pac’s movement has weight and momentum, and the new moves sometimes open up fresh routes or speedruns. That said, the pacing can be inconsistent: some areas push tight platforming and timing while others lean heavily on handholding and rails. Boss fights are plentiful, but their designs are divisive—some are clever, others drag on with phases that repeat too long. The 2-player mode and time trials add replay value, especially if you enjoy chasing leaderboard perfection.

Reimagined Tricks & Naughty Tweaks

What sets Re-PAC apart is how it reinterprets levels rather than doing a straight one-to-one remake. Many stages are rebuilt with new hazards, mechanical bits and additional moves in Pac’s toolkit—this can be refreshing, and at times feels like a new game built on an old map. New collectibles, costumes, arcade rooms and gachapon toys layer extra goals on top of the main quest. However, some changes feel like over-sanitizing; collectible frequency is higher, health is split into smaller wedges, and the tutorial prompts can be relentless. If you loved the original’s trial-and-error learning, this version might feel spoon-fed. Conversely, players after new challenges will appreciate tougher post-game stages and tighter platforming segments that require precision and patience.

A Colorful Re-PAC Presentation

Graphically, the game is a bright, cartoony update that leans into glossy textures and expressive character models. The voice work gives Pac-Man more personality—Martin T. Sherman’s performance divides opinions but often sells the charm. Levels ooze nostalgia with modern lighting, and the soundtrack keeps the jaunty tone of the series. Performance on PC is generally solid on my playthrough; load times are reasonable and options include accessibility tweaks. There are rough edges: camera moments can be awkward during tight platforming, and some environmental redesigns—mechanized pillars replacing natural setpieces—change the original vibe in ways that don’t always feel for the better. Still, presentation is joyful overall and does a good job inviting new players into PAC-LAND.

PAC-MAN WORLD 2 Re-PAC is a heartfelt remake that mostly succeeds: it modernizes visuals and mechanics and adds worthwhile extras, but some design choices and boss reworks will annoy purists. It’s great for players who want a charming, sometimes challenging 3D platformer with collectibles and co-op. Nostalgic fans expecting a carbon-copy should temper expectations, but many will still find plenty to enjoy.