Bandai Namco Entertainment is marking the 45th anniversary of PAC-MAN with a wave of announcements and tributes, spanning new game reveals and international collaborations that underscore the character’s enduring legacy in gaming and pop culture.
Leading the celebrations is a new look at Shadow Labyrinth, a 2D action platformer inspired by PAC-MAN and other classic arcade-era titles. Scheduled to launch on 18 July 2025, the game reimagines familiar mechanics in a dark sci-fi world filled with twisting corridors and relentless enemies. Developed by Bandai Namco Studios, players take on the role of Swordsman No. 8, accompanied by a companion named PUCK—a nod to the original PAC character – on a dangerous journey through a hostile planet. The latest trailer, released on the exact anniversary of PAC-MAN’s 1980 arcade debut, showcases how gameplay elements like maze navigation and enemy pursuit have been adapted to suit a more atmospheric and action-driven experience.
Alongside the game, Bandai Namco has unveiled a number of cross-industry partnerships to celebrate PAC-MAN’s milestone:
- OXO Video Game Museum is hosting a series of events in Madrid and Malaga, offering fans an interactive retrospective of the character’s impact on gaming history.
- Montegrappa has designed a premium PAC-MAN-themed pen that brings a refined, retro flair to everyday writing.
- Quoridor, the award-winning board game, has introduced a PAC-MAN variant that integrates the character’s maze dynamics into strategic play.
- Brio has released a PAC-MAN edition of its classic Labyrinth game, merging vintage charm with retro arcade aesthetics.
- Glomesh, the Australian accessories label, is launching a limited-edition collection that features 8-bit PAC-MAN designs on its signature pixel-mesh fabric.
- Krispy Kreme is offering PAC-MAN-themed doughnuts until 1 June, blending sugary indulgence with nostalgia.
- Candy Can is preparing to release a pop-culture drink series starring PAC-MAN and other familiar icons, with designs to be revealed soon.
- Leblon Delienne, the French sculpture studio, is crafting a line of artistic statues featuring PAC-MAN and friends.
- Knobby, Australia’s underwear brand, has released a vivid, limited-edition collection celebrating the game’s legacy in a wearable format.
- PAC-MAN LIVE EXPERIENCE, an immersive, life-sized maze attraction by Little Lion Entertainment, continues to expand internationally with a new location open in Dubai.
