2002’s Pac-Man World 2 is being prepped for re-release to celebrate 45 years of Wakka Wakka, complete with remastered graphics.
Originally released on Nintendo GameCube and Game Boy Advance, Microsoft Windows and Xbox, Sony PlayStation 2, Pac-Man World 2 is considered by many fans of the yellow puck to be the best entry in the series in the 21st century.
It’s been a quiet 23 years.
Pac-Man World 2 Re-Pac is one of the primary releases from Bandai Namco this year, in which Pac-Man’s 45th anniversary is being celebrated. This is a remake of the original, retaining the action-platformer gameplay but adding new game play mechanics, new and expanded levels, and voice over acting for all main characters. Oh, and the graphics have been overhauled, too:
Here’s the synopsis:
PAC-MAN WORLD 2 Re-PAC puts players in the role of the iconic character, embarking on a journey across Pac-Land. Players will navigate through six unique worlds, with environments such as meadows, an ice peak, and a volcano, while facing off against the Ghosts and their boss Spooky.
New gameplay mechanics in Pac-Man World 2 Re-PAC
One of the main reasons to upgrade old games for current systems is to improve quality of life, maybe tweak graphics and sound. Adding new gameplay mechanics doesn’t typically go down well, as some retro gamers feel doing so takes remasters away from original releases.
So, what is new here? We’re told that the game has new actions called Super Butt Bounce, Ice Skating, and Pac-Marine, some of which are highlighted in the trailer above. Meanwhile, Flip Kick and Snorkeling are improved on the original moves.
QoL improvements are there, though, to make the game easier. Fairy Mode makes the game less difficult, and Time Attack Mode adds support for global speedrunning leaderboards. In addition, three classic Pac-Man titles (Pac-Man, Pac-Attack, and Pacmania) are also included via the game’s Village arcade.
Oh, and there’s a two-player couch co-op mode, too!
PAC-MAN WORLD 2 Re-PAC is slated for release on September 26, 2025, and you can pre-order now on PlayStation 5, Playstation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC via Steam.
For more information and to preorder the game, visit the Bandai Namco website.
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Christian Cawley is a writer and editor who covers consumer electronics, IT, and entertainment media. He has written for publications such as Computer Weekly, Linux Format, MakeUseOf.com, and Tech Radar.
He also produces podcasts, has a cigar box guitar, and of course, loves retro gaming.