To celebrate the 43rd anniversary of PAC-MAN, LEGO has revealed a new “Icons” set, allowing fans to recreate the classic arcade in brick form!
Like the NES and Atari, PAC-MAN is the latest video game icon to get the LEGO treatment. Today (which marks the game’s 43rd anniversary), LEGO has revealed an impressive new PAC-MAN Arcade set. Coming in a little over 2,600 pieces, there’s tons of neat things built into this one; including a mini-arcade in the back, moving parts to make it look like a functioning game, and more.
Originally released on May 22, 1980, by Bandai Namco Entertainment Inc. (previously Namco) in Japan, the PAC-MAN video game became a cultural icon. After 40 years of being a part of pop culture worldwide through games, TV shows, music and more, the LEGO Group has collaborated with Bandai Namco to bring the 80s classic back in brick form. This collaboration led to the unique discovery that PAC-MAN’s famous yellow colour was inspired by the LEGO Group’s signature colour.
The new LEGO set design shows an arcade version of PAC-MAN and allows you to recreate some of the legendary ghost munching moves of the game. In addition, builders can create large colourful 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 – you can light up the coin-slot, plus there is a small vignette of a female minifigure playing PAC-MAN on an arcade, hidden inside of the cabinet.
LEGO PAC-MAN Arcade Machine Set (SKU: 10323)
The model measures: 12.5 in. (32 cm) high, 10 in. (25 cm) wide and 7 in. (17 cm) deep2,650 pieces
Price: $269.99 / €269.99 / £229.99
Key functions and features include:
3 iconic PAC-MAN figures.
1 light- brick that lights up the area where you insert the coin.
A small vignette of minifigure (female) playing PAC-MAN on an Arcade hidden inside of 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.”
Adding on the collaboration, 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.”
The LEGO PAC-MAN Arcade Set will be available to purchase from LEGO.com and LEGO stores on June 4, 2023 (LEGO VIP members can snag one on June 1st) for $269.99.
