# Retro Game: Pac-Mania (MSX2) ## Overview *Pac-Mania* for the MSX2 brings the groundbreaking arcade sequel right to your home computer. This title evolves the classic formula by dropping the iconic hero into vibrant, pseudo-3D isometric mazes. For the first time ever, Pac-Man can jump, adding a crucial new layer of strategy to outmaneuvering the relentless ghost gang. It’s a fast, colorful, and incredibly fun evolution of one of gaming's greatest characters. ## Background Originally developed by Namco and released in arcades in 1987, *Pac-Mania* was a technological and gameplay leap for the series. The MSX2 port was handled by Grandslam Entertainments and released in 1988. It was a remarkable achievement, successfully translating the arcade's detailed isometric graphics and smooth scrolling to the MSX2 hardware. For home computer users, this version was a fantastic way to experience the latest chapter in the Pac-Man saga, complete with its new mechanics and charming presentation. ## Gameplay The core objective in *Pac-Mania* remains the same: eat all the dots in the maze to proceed to the next level. However, the gameplay is transformed by two major additions. The most significant is Pac-Man's ability to jump. With a press of a button, Pac-Man can leap into the air, allowing him to hop over ghosts in a pinch. This adds a thrilling escape mechanic, but timing is critical. The second addition is the expanded roster of ghosts. Alongside the classic quartet, two new ghosts, the green Funky and the gray Spunky, will occasionally appear and jump when Pac-Man jumps, making them much harder to evade. The mazes are larger, scrolling to follow Pac-Man, and are filled with special items like green pellets that temporarily increase speed and red pellets that double the value of eating ghosts.