Final Glimpse: Like a rat in a maze...
There are a few game genres that seem to translate into tons of licensed products. Frankly, I don't think that anyone can justly condone all of the kart racing games that are out there. Likewise, what is up with platform action games? For every great and original Mario or Jak and Daxter game there is a mediocre Hercules or Superman. There just seems to be no end to what publishers will put out in order to make a buck. It is fortunate that there are still companies like Namco around that can still put out a solid title that breathes new life into stagnant gameplay. They have done it with their fighting titles and light gun games and are hoping to do it again with Pac-Man World 2.
At its heart, Namco is making Pac-Man World 2 into a platform title that borrows gameplay mechanics from other titles. At this point in gaming, there are few games in this genre that haven't borrowed from the great Mario 64. The game is poised for success with a strong backing of tight controls and gameplay elements borrowed from the best. Homage is even paid to everyone's favorite blue hedgehog as Pac-Man will now be able to pull himself into a ball and charge through the level. There is a lot of this game that isn't original but there seems to be a magic about the game that should keep things fun.
Pac Man World 2 is going to be more than just running around in a snazzy 3-D world. In Pac-Village there is a video arcade and in that arcade is going to be the complete lineup of classic Pac titles. You will be able to unlock these titles by munching pellets and racking up points. Have you ever wanted to play the original Pac-Man on an overpowered gaming console? Now is your chance. Along with the game that started it all, you will be able to take the controls of Ms. Pac-Man and Pac Attack as well as Pac Mania.
Don't expect the Gamecube version of Pac-Man World to be much different then the PS2 version that hit shelves last week. There just isn't enough time between releases to enhance the game very much. However, the vibrant graphics are looking just a little bit cleaner at this point. This isn't a major difference between the two versions, in fact, both of them are sporting a wonderful visual palette including detailed textures, animated backgrounds, and excellent particle effects. Combine all of this with the reported 60 frames per second animation rate and you have a virtual masterpiece.
