Bandai Namco’s latest installment in the iconic PAC-MAN series, PAC-MAN Mega Tunnel Battle: Chomp Champs, brings the legendary arcade icon to all major systems with a fresh, competitive twist. While retaining the charm of the original, this new iteration introduces a Battle Royale mode, allowing up to 64 players to chomp their way to victory in interconnected mazes. Developed by Amber Studio, we checked out the PlayStation 5 version.
The premise of PAC-MAN Mega Tunnel Battle: Chomp Champs is simple yet engaging: players compete against each other in a series of classic PAC-MAN mazes, gobbling up pellets, dodging ghosts, and attempting to outlast their opponents in the process. It’s a nostalgic trip for longtime fans and a fun, straightforward context for newcomers. The competitive angle adds a layer of excitement and urgency to the classic gameplay, keeping players on their toes.
Gameplay mechanics remain true to the original PAC-MAN formula, with the added twist of the Battle Royale mode that’s the heart and soul of Chomp Champs. This new feature encourages strategic play, as players can invade each other’s mazes and use power-ups to gain the upper hand. This might sounds complex on paper compared to the classic arcade concept, but the mechanics are intuitive, making it easy for both veteran players and newcomers to pick up and enjoy. However, the simplicity of the gameplay may also start to feel repetitive over extended sessions, and the strategic depth, while present, might not be sufficient to keep hardcore gamers engaged for the long haul.
The controls on the PlayStation 5 are smooth and responsive, a crucial factor for a game with arcade roots that relies on quick reflexes and precise movements. The transition to the new console generation has been handled well in terms of controls, with the DualSense controller’s haptic feedback adding a subtle yet immersive touch to the gameplay. Navigating the mazes feels fluid, and the controls are accessible enough for players of all skill levels.
Visually, PAC-MAN Mega Tunnel Battle: Chomp Champs is a vibrant and colorful experience. The graphics are crisp, with a modern twist on the classic PAC-MAN aesthetic. The mazes are well-designed, and the visual effects, such as power-ups and ghost animations, are engaging and add to the overall appeal. However, some might argue that the visual style, while polished, doesn’t take full advantage of the PlayStation 5’s graphical capabilities, potentially leaving players wanting more in terms of visual innovation – though we also realize there is only so much you can do with the classic PAC-MAN maze formula.
The audio in PAC-MAN Mega Tunnel Battle: Chomp Champs strikes a perfect balance between nostalgia and modernity. The iconic PAC-MAN sounds are present, providing a familiar auditory experience as you gobble up those pellets, while the updated sound effects and background music add a contemporary flair. The audio cues are not only nostalgic but also serve as helpful indicators during gameplay, allowing you to stay on top of what’s happening and enhancing the overall experience.
In summary, PAC-MAN Mega Tunnel Battle: Chomp Champs successfully brings a beloved classic into the modern gaming era with its Battle Royale mode and polished presentation. The game is a nice homage to the original PAC-MAN, offering a fun and competitive twist that is both accessible and engaging. While it may not hold the attention of hardcore gamers for long periods, it serves as a fantastic pick-up-and-play option for casual gaming sessions. It’s not a major game-changer and we had expected a little more from it, but Chomp Champs provides a vibrant and entertaining gaming experience on the PlayStation 5.
Score: 6.8/10
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