The iconic game completed its 30th birth anniversary on 22nd May, 2010. Pacman holds a classic status in video game history. According to many game developers and hardcore online game addicts, the influence of Pacman is still strong (in fact, stronger) instead of being on the wane. Its popularity will remind you of the fact that the video gaming industry is as big as Hollywood or may be bigger than that.
Little was known to the Paceman developers that a simple yellow character would rule the world of video games. It is still a big favourite with gaming enthusiasts for how the character avoids getting consumed by ghosts while making its way through a labyrinth of dots.
True that more dollars are pouring in after the likes of the Halos and the Sims, Call of Dutys and Maddens were launched. However, none of these could match the charm and craze that Paceman created after its release.
Origin of Pacman
Namco Bandar, a Japanese company, released a game named Puck-Man in its native country on May 22, 1980. After the game reached the United States, they rejected the title because some thought “P” would look like an “F”, conveying a distorted meaning.
Regardless of the naming issue, it created a global phenomenon and still remains one of the gaming milestones. Unlike many popular video games that have come and gone since Pacman’s arrival, the little yellow disc with a pie-slice missing, still rocks and rules. Furthermore, the legendary character has inspired many well-known names in the niche of video game designing.
A Greater Societal Significance
Richard Garriott, a video game designer best known for his pioneering contribution to Ultima and Ultima Online, strongly thinks that Pac-Man was a watershed creation from the perspective of possibilities and popularity of video games. Before Pac-Man, Asteroids and Pong were also big hits with the gaming nerds. However, Pac-Man became popular among both men and women and people from all walks of life.
For the first time, many started feeling that online games were not only for teenageres’ interest but could offer something for all adults’ consumption, creating a greater sensation and significance on societal level.
To some, it may sound like an exaggeration but there is enough evidence to support the claim that Pacman may have the most cultural impact on society.
Recognition
The Guinness Book of World Records has listed Pac-Man as the most popular video game. Pacman has left many stalwarts like Sonic the Hedgehog and Mario Brothers behind to get the numero uno status. The Guinness Book of World Records also names Pacman the most successful and popular coin-operated video game ever.
A Game for All
Though Pacman may not have attracted typical male teen gaming enthusiasts, it holds a place in society. The game has popular iPad and iPhone versions, with many bars still featuring arcade machineries.
A New Pac-Man Game
On 21st May, Google broke new ground by launching its first-ever playable, interactive and full-featured home-page logo. It was a 255-level version of the original game. Pacman 30th anniversary was developed from scratch while retaining the original look and feel of the famous yellow character.
Gamers switched to a ‘celebration’ mood to welcome an advanced version. They have never shrugged off their fondness of the great old classic. No other video games have been able to match the popularity of the original Pacman.
Decoding Pac-Man’s Popularity
There are many reasons that have contributed to the overwhelming popularity of Pacman. Simple yet catchy design, compulsive gameplay and ordinary system requirements are three key reasons to have made the game popular. Starting out as a simple game, Pacman has become integral to popular pop culture. Pacman is now found in more than 100 different versions from video games to clothes.
