Namco Is Celebrating Pac-Man’s 45th Anniversary With Live Events, Museum Exhibits, And More

Prior to Pac-Man’s appearance in May 1980, there were various video games and arcade hits. However, Namco’s character who chased and gobbled up ghosts quickly became a symbol of popular culture. As we approach the 45th anniversary of Pac-Man, which is now less than two months away, Bandai Namco has plans to celebrate this iconic figure well into 2026.

Kickstarting the year with “imPACt,” Bandai Namco unveiled a video retracing Pac-Man’s journey through four decades. This video showcases the original game and its Atari 2600 version, along with several sequels and spin-offs such as Pac-Man World 2. Even a fleeting peek of Shadow Labyrinth, the upcoming title transforming the Pac-Man franchise into a 2D action game, is included in this video.

Although Shadow Labyrinth is set to be the largest Pac-Man game coming up, it’s not the only one in development. In a partnership with Supersocial on Roblox, Bandai Namco is creating Pac-Man Simulator, offering additional Pac-Man experiences to celebrate the 45th anniversary. Furthermore, PowerA is designing gaming accessories for Pac-Man, which will be compatible with Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One. Previews of upcoming Pac-Man plushies have also been revealed.

If you’ve ever dreamt about becoming Pac-Man in a real world, here’s an exciting news! Starting from March 22, Manchester’s Arcade Arena in the UK is unveiling the Pac-Man Live Experience. This unique collaboration between Little Lion Entertainment and Bandai Namco invites visitors to immerse themselves within gigantic replicas of the classic Pac-Man labyrinth.

Between April 30 and June 4, the Museum of Pop Culture in Seattle is showcasing a unique Pac-Man exhibit that includes a themed event on May 10. Similarly, The Great Park Gallery in Irvine, California will feature a Pac-Man retrospective from May 18 to September 28, with its own special programming.

Club America is set to join the excitement with a special edition of soccer jerseys themed around the classic game Pac-Man. Additionally, new toys, clothing items, and even a cooking book featuring Pac-Man recipes from Insight Editions are planned for release in 2025. Bandai Namco is also collaborating with the Red Cross for a blood donation program through Pac-Man’s “Make ImPACt” initiative. Further information about this partnership will be disclosed later this year.

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2025-03-05 02:53