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Hello, fellow LEGO enthusiasts and retro gaming fans! Today, we’re going to take a nostalgic trip down memory lane, back to the golden era of arcade gaming. But this time, we’re doing it with a twist. We’re going to explore the world of Pac-Man, not through a joystick, but through the vibrant, creative, and ever-inspiring world of LEGO bricks. Yes, you heard it right! LEGO has just announced the release of their new Icons Pac-Man Arcade set, and it’s a game-changer, literally!
A Blast from the Past
Pac-Man, the iconic arcade game that took the world by storm in the 80s, is turning 43 this year. To celebrate this milestone, LEGO Group and Bandai Namco, the creators of Pac-Man, have teamed up to bring us a unique and exciting LEGO set that recreates the classic game in brick form. This collaboration has resulted in a detailed and colourful brick version of the Pac-Man arcade game, complete with our favourite characters – Pac-Man, Blinky, and Clyde.
A Fun Fact to Chew On
Did you know that Pac-Man’s famous yellow colour was inspired by the LEGO Group’s signature colour? Yes, the connection between these two iconic brands goes deeper than you might think! This fun fact was revealed during the collaboration between Bandai Namco and the LEGO Group, adding an extra layer of nostalgia and connection to this new set.
Building the Game
The new LEGO Icons Pac-Man Arcade set allows you to recreate some of the legendary ghost munching moves of the game. Once complete, you can light up the coin-slot and even discover a hidden vignette of a female minifigure playing Pac-Man on an arcade inside the cabinet. The set also includes 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.
Pac-Man Trivia
Pac-Man has a rich history filled with interesting facts. For instance, the first focus test for Pac-Man was held on May 22nd, 1980, where members of the public got to see the yellow character for the first time. The character’s shape was inspired by a pizza with a slice missing. The game was released in Japan on June 29, 1980, before being made available in the rest of the world.
Pac-Man’s influence extended beyond the gaming world, with a cartoon hit appearing on TV screens in the 80s and a hit single “PAC-MAN Fever” reaching 9th place on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart in March 1982. In 1993, Billy Mitchell of Florida became the first person to ever achieve the game’s perfect score of 3,333,360 points.
A Labour of Love
Sven Franic, a LEGO Designer, described the process of designing the new set as a delight. The 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.
A Perfect Collaboration
Aadil Tayouga, Director of Licensing and Business Strategy at Bandai Namco Europe, expressed his excitement about the collaboration with LEGO Group. He highlighted the shared values between the two companies, notably aiming at providing fun for all people through quality products.
Get Your Hands on the Set
LEGO VIP members will have early access to purchase the LEGO PAC-MAN Arcade set from 1st June 2023 from LEGO.com/PAC-MAN and LEGO Stores. The set will be available to all from 4th June 2023 at the recommended retail price of $269.99 / €269.99 / £229.99.
A Closer Look at the Set
The LEGO® PAC-MAN Arcade Machine Set (SKU: 10323) is designed for ages 18 and up. The model measures 12.5 in. (32 cm) high, 10 in. (25 cm) wide, and 7 in. (17 cm) deep. With 2,650 pieces, the set includes three iconic PAC-MAN figures, a light-brick that lights up the area where you insert the coin, and a small vignette of a minifigure (female) playing PAC-MAN on an Arcade hidden inside of the cabinet.
Wrapping Up
This new LEGO set is more than just a toy; it’s a tribute to a game that has shaped pop culture for over four decades. It’s a chance to relive the joy and excitement of playing Pac-Man, but this time, through a different kind of game – the game of building with LEGO bricks. So, whether you’re a fan of LEGO, a retro gaming enthusiast, or both, this set is a must-have addition to your collection. Happy building, and may you munch many brick ghosts along the way!
Don’t forget to grab your LEGO PAC-MAN Arcade set when it hits the virtual and physical shelves on June 1st for LEGO VIP members and June 4th for the rest of us. Let the retro gaming revival begin!
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