Pac-Man and the Ghostly Adventures

Pac-Man and the Ghostly Adventures is a 2.5D side-scrolling platform game based on the 2013 animated TV series of the same name. Just like the console/PC game Pac-Man and the Ghostly Adventures it is based on the series' storyline, but the gameplay of the 3DS version is entirely different and it is done by a different developer. Pac-Man and his friends Cylindria and Spiral receive a message from president Spheros that the Tree of Life with its special berries has been stolen and ghosts are attacking Pacopolis city. They decide to bring back the tree and fight the ghosts sent by Master Betrayus, the leader of the Netherworld.

Pac-Man moves through a largely linear side-scrolling environment shown from a side view. He can move around, jump and bite to attack ghosts. Along the way he can eat cookies (dots) for points and 100 of them provides an extra life. Health is represented through hearts. Whenever he eats a ghost, he hovers in the air for a short time and by eating many in succession, next to each other, it is possible to climb in the environment. He can also float for a short time after jumping in the air. He can jump and cling to enemies, damaging them, until they can be swallowed. For larger enemies it is possible to bounce off them, making them flinch and susceptible to a clinging attack. Certain sections have cannons that launch Pac-Man in the air and allow him to break through blocks. Cannons can sometimes be rotated in multiple directions and are used to solve small puzzles. Next to enemies there are hazards such as gaps, floating platforms and electricity. A fast pace, attacking enemies in mid-air, is rewarded with more points. By eating dots of seven different colours valuable pieces of fruit appear.

By picking up berry fertilizer a power berry that grows from a small potted plant will receive an upgrade. Graphic pieces can be picked up as well. Special attacks are provided by ingesting power pellets include a cold breath (stunning explosive blocks and enemies), using his tongue as a slingshot or to grab enemies, bringing enemies closers and the ability to transform into a giant rock. Many of these are also present in the main console/PC version. During certain sections it is possible to morph into Cylindria and Spiral, providing their Cherry Copter and Pineapple Tank respectively. Levels have a boss at the end requiring specific techniques. There are often small, animated cut-scenes, sometimes with conversation options.

The game borrows some overall design elements from the Mega Man series. After completing the first level all the other levels can be accessed right away and they are each based on the use of a specific power pellet type. After completing a level permanent access to that pellet type is provided as a new ability. Stages can also be revisited to find new paths and extras using the new powers required for certain sections. There is a set amount of powers for each level and it is possible to switch between them at any time, but with a time limit for each one.