When the player takes on the role of Lyra, they play as both Lyra and Pan - one cohesive unit. Pan can shape- shift into many different forms, all of which perform a unique set of tasks for the player. In the traversal aspect of play, using Pan’s variety of forms allows the player access to areas that Lyra could not reach without Pan’s help.

Shifting from one form to the next while moving across familiar (and unfamiliar universe environments) provides a very entertaining gameplay element. Pan can become 4 animal daemon shapes including a hawk, which allows Lyra to glide across areas that might be too far to jump. An ermine, which helps her to balance on unstable or narrow beams. A wild cat, that enables her to climb up walls. And a sloth form that, like a monkey, gives her the ability to swing from platform to platform. When a player controls Iorek gameplay shifts into a more interactive 3rd person combat game with attack combos and special action throws.

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