For those nostalgic for the ’80s, Lego is unveiling a 2,561-piece tribute to the iconic game, “Pac-Man.”
This new set draws inspiration from the classic 1980s arcade cabinet and even has a light brick feature to mimic the glow of the coin slot, as per Lego’s official announcement.
Originally debuting in Tokyo in 1980, “Pac-Man” secured its legacy as the most illustrious arcade game ever. Players navigated the munching yellow hero, Pac-Man, through a maze, gobbling up dots and dodging four pesky ghosts.
Though this Lego replica isn’t a functioning gaming console, it’s filled with nostalgic gaming details that enthusiasts will surely appreciate.
One notable feature is the “mechanical maze” that operates with a side crank. As Lego shares, “This mechanism, a testament to exceptional engineering, makes the characters traverse the maze in a lifelike manner.”
With dimensions of 13 inches in height, 10 inches in width, and 7 inches in depth, this Lego arcade machine also has a detachable back panel that uncovers the system’s intricacies.
“Pac-Man,” a brainchild of then 25-year-old game innovator Toru Iwatani, broke barriers with its novel gameplay techniques. It introduced gamers to the concept of “power-ups” and interspersed levels with the gaming world’s first cutscenes. Moreover, it carved a niche as a pioneering game in the maze category.
Recognizing its monumental contribution to video gaming, “Pac-Man” earned its spot in the permanent exhibit at New York’s Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in 2012.
Priced at $270, the “Pac-Man Arcade” kit will be available on June 4, under Lego’s Icons series, which promises “an intricate yet satisfying building adventure,” according to Lego.
Other remarkable sets in this collection encompass the Land Rover Classic Defender 90, Titanic, and the iconic Eiffel Tower.
Lego’s ability to weave nostalgia with modern design intricacies has been a significant part of its charm, appealing to both kids and adults. With the release of the “Pac-Man Arcade” set, Lego not only pays homage to a groundbreaking video game but also offers enthusiasts a tangible piece of the golden era of arcades. Whether you’re a dedicated gamer, a Lego aficionado, or just someone longing for a blast from the past, this set is a delightful blend of both worlds.
