One of the best-looking and fun clones of arcade classics you’ll likely come across, PacVenture - Pac's Odyssee is very nice Pac-Man clone that adds detailed SVGA graphics, 3D/isometric view, and a lot of diverse worlds for Mr. Pac to travel in. The game even has a cute little plot, although it is barely needed for the simple gameplay. Ms. Pac has been kidnapped by the Ghost King and taken to his castle. It’s up to you, of course, to rescue your beloved spouse. The gameplay will be familiar to anyone who has played Pac-Man (and who hasn’t?): eat all the dots on each level to go to then next one. PacVenture adds a lot of innovative elements to make the gameplay more interesting. First of all, the graphics are outstanding: Mr. Pac will travel across lush forests, bustling city streets, and more diverse locales before reaching the castle. In city levels, ghosts drive cars and try to run you down; in seaside levels, you must swim for your life. And there’s plenty of other levels, each with its own surprises and unique elements, to keep you glued to the screen. On the downside, the isometric view makes playing a bit frustrating, since some dots are hidden from view behind trees and other objects. The “absolute” control method (e.g. pressing “up” means going north regardless of the direction Mr. Pac is facing) is also annoying, but you’ll get used to it in a few minutes. Overall, PacVenture is a well-designed and thoroughly captivating arcade-inspired underdog that you’ll enjoy. Reviewed by: Underdogs |