Last Updated on May 22, 2023
The LEGO Pac-Man Arcade set is a detailed recreation of the classic 80’s arcade game
The 43rd anniversary of Pac-Man is being celebrated by the LEGO Group and Bandai Namco, with the unveiling of the new vintage LEGO® ICONS Pac-Man Arcade set. The beloved arcade game, which has become a cultural icon after 40 years of being part of pop culture worldwide through games, TV shows, music, and more, has been recreated in brick form. The collaboration also led to the discovery that Pac-Man’s famous yellow color was inspired by the LEGO Group’s signature color.
After weeks of speculation, the news of the set was finally confirmed today, following this hint at the weekend:
The new LEGO set design features an arcade version of Pac-Man that allows you to recreate some of the ghost-munching moves of the game. Additionally, builders can create large colorful brick versions of Pac-Man, Blinky, and Clyde that rotate on a base and can be displayed on top of the cabinet or separately. Once complete, builders can light up the coin slot and find a small vignette of a female minifigure playing PAC-MAN hidden inside the cabinet.
Describing the process of designing the new set, Sven Franic, LEGO Designer comments:
“A cultural icon for the past 40 years, it was a delight to bring PAC-MAN to brick life. We are always looking for new and exciting ways to bring classic gaming experiences to life. Our team of talented designers worked tirelessly to capture the essence of the beloved PAC-MAN arcade machine in brick form, from PAC-MAN himself to the colourful, maze-like environment he inhabits.
Every detail was carefully considered and crafted, resulting in a one-of-a-kind LEGO creation that captures the magic of the original game while adding a playful new twist and a couple of Easter eggs – in true video game style. We are thrilled to share this incredible build with the world and cannot wait to see the joy it brings to fans of all ages.”
Interestingly, on May 22, 1980, the first focus test was held for PAC-MAN, where the public saw the iconic yellow character for the first time. Designer Mr. Iwatani was inspired by the iconic yellow of the LEGO brick when choosing the color for Pac-Man. In recognition of Pac-Man‘s release, the Guinness World Records acknowledged the game as the “Most Successful Coin-Operated Game” in the world.
Aadil Tayouga, Director of Licensing and Business Strategy at Bandai Namco Europe says:
“Bandai Namco and the LEGO group share a lot of common values, notably aiming at providing fun for all people through quality products. In addition to these values, since PAC-MAN yellow was actually inspired by the LEGO Group yellow, it made the connection even more natural. It has been a tremendous collaboration with the passionate teams at the LEGO Group and we hope that fans will enjoy this kit.”
LEGO VIP members will have early access to purchase the LEGO Pac-Man Arcade set from June 1, 2023, from LEGO.com and LEGO Stores. The set will be available to everyone from June 4, 2023, at a recommended retail price of $269.99 / €269.99 / £229.99.
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