Pac-Man's 45th Anniversary: A Retro Game's Enduring Legacy

Pac-Man Turns 45: A Global Icon Celebrates Four Decades of Gameplay On May 22, 2025, the world celebrated the 45th anniversary of Pac-Man, a video game that transcended its origins to become a global cultural phenomenon. To mark the occasion, À Punt Notícies interviewed Rubén Casaña, owner of Retro Arcadia, a retro gaming store in Spain. Casaña highlighted Pac-Man's innovative design, stating, "It's a simple circular design, based on escape strategies, but it was a resounding success that became a sales record in the 80s." He further emphasized the game's transgenerational appeal, noting its continued popularity across different age groups. The game's simple premise belied its complexity, with Casaña noting that "behind the game there is a lot of development, it took a year and a half to make it." The enduring legacy of Pac-Man is evident in its appearances in films, songs, and various other media, solidifying its place in popular culture. The game's creator, Toru Iwatani, aimed to create a game that appealed to families and was not violent, a goal he clearly achieved. The anniversary serves as a reminder of Pac-Man's lasting impact on the gaming world and beyond.