Very few games can take a decades-old gaming icon and craft something entirely unique, yet familiar at the same time, as PAC-MAN 256 does. This endless runner take on Namco's classic arcade series perfectly nails the spirit of the original while adding an addictive modern gameplay twist.

The game remains faithful to the original maze action gameplay, but with hand-drawn visuals inside out: proper 80s arcade machines have been totally wrapped up from the ingredients and can't wait to get you in the game. And the old-school action gets tipped on its head when you don't have to worry about what might be lurking in the darkness with the famous “256 glitch” back in the gameplay: get ready to face the glitch as the new rolling chomping, and never-ending maze. The core is about a run of heartbeat and mayhem which makes you nostalgic and excited.

A highlight of the game is its combination of convention and modernity. The classic dots, ghosts and power pellets come back. That is layered with more than 30 power-ups — such as lasers, tornadoes and giant PAC-MAN — which increase the layers of strategy, allowing players to customize their way to a longer survival. The controls are wonderfully intuitive and work with a simple swipe or tap, and it's approachable enough for casual players while remaining tough to put down for veterans going for high scores.

Aside from its gameplay, PAC-MAN 256 is another game that impresses presentation-wise. Neon-lighted retro-futuristic art matches an era of arcades while looking clean and current. The pumping electronic beats of the soundtrack ratchet up the tension as the glitch closes in, while social features, such as global leaderboards and daily challenges, foster a sense of competition and belonging, and no “game over” screen (there are checkpoints) will ensure that play and replay equal frustration and repeat play.

Whether you are a retro junkie or never played a PAC-MAN game before, this is the time to experience this classic but revised game. It's a rare mobile jewel that demonstrates some classics really are timeless — especially provided they're given the opportunity to evolve.