TOKYO - Pac-Man, the globally beloved video game character, turns 45 on May 22nd, and Tokyo is gearing up to celebrate the milestone with a series of events in the Shibuya and Harajuku districts.
The original 1980 arcade game features the iconic yellow character navigating a maze to gobble up pellets, accompanied by its signature electronic sound effects. When a commercial for the game aired at the time of its release, crowds gathered outside Shinjuku Alta to catch a glimpse—testament to its immediate popularity.
"I used to play Pac-Man. It brings back memories," said one passerby. "My friends and I were obsessed. That music is unforgettable."
The game sparked a worldwide craze and was certified by Guinness World Records in 2005 as the most successful coin-operated arcade machine in history. The very first Pac-Man cabinet was installed at a game center near Shibuya Station.
To mark the 45th anniversary, special events will be held on May 22nd in the area where it all began. One venue will feature a row of restored arcade machines from the 1980s, allowing visitors to play the original Pac-Man in its classic form. Newer generations are also being targeted, with character-themed cushions and goods aimed at attracting younger fans.
Jun Fujimoto from the licensing division at Bandai Namco Entertainment commented: "As an icon of Japanese gaming culture, we want to reflect on Pac-Man’s legacy while continuing to share its appeal with a new generation."
From its roots in the Showa era to its evolution in the Reiwa era, Pac-Man continues to transcend time. The celebrations also include shaved ice treats styled after the game’s ghost enemies, along with a wide range of collaborative merchandise.
