PAC-MAN turns 45 this year, and has left an incredible history since then! Paley Museum announces an exhibit about PAC-MAN‘s history to open on January 16!
PAC-MAN needs little introduction, being one of the most recognizable faces in gaming. Created by Toru Iwatani, this humble little game of running through a maze left a mark on history. Everyone knows of the little yellow ghost hunter, who blitzed onto the scene in arcades and changed the world.
With 2026 marking the 45th anniversary of the yellow circle, the time for celebrating and chronicling his history was nigh. Right within New York City, The Paley Museum has undertaken the opportunity by opening an exhibit all about the series. If it is about PAC-MAN, then this exhibit is sure to have it!
The exhibit holds quite a few artifacts and pieces of history from the arcade icon. You will get the chance to see pieces of artwork used during the game’s development, as well as rare pieces of merchandise. However, some of the more standout pieces in the exhibit are the many games in the series.
This includes the original game and its many ports to different systems, even including the Atari 2600 version of the arcade classic. There are also the updated versions of the original, like the Battle Royale Chompianship, which visitors can play. There are even chances to play spin offs like PAC-MAN World, including the recent remake to both in the form of the Re-Pac games.
As you explore the museum, you will also experience the thought process behind each decision in PAC-MAN‘s development. From the power ups, the art style, and how each ghost acts, you will get the chance to learn how these all made the original the classic it is seen as today. All of this packed within the halls of The Paley Museum, which Paley Members are free to experience.
Paley Museum is not just opening an exhibit to PAC-MAN, as they will also run a special day all about him. On January 31, the Paley Museum will host PAC-MAN Family Day. This day will be filled with all sorts of activities and celebrations for all ages.
An arcade themed all around the series will be open for anyone to enjoy, along with arts and crafts for younger visitors. A set of raffles and giveaways will run on throughout the day, for the chance to win prizes. PAC-MAN himself will also show up for a meet and greet, making the Family Day a prime opportunity for fun!
The exhibit will be open from January 16 to May 31, while the Family Day will only be on January 31. You can purchase tickets at The Paley Museum Website. You can also discuss the PAC-MAN Museum Exhibit on the PopGeeks Video Game Forum!
