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While Pacman may be one of the oldest classic arcade games ever created, it is also an undying fan favorite, and while the old console systems have been replaced with newer versions capable of high definition graphics and surround sound, the current generation of gamers can still get to experience the old Pacman through emulators or online. From its original release in 1980 by Namco, the game has spawned many derivatives such as more games in the same spirit, toys, merchandise, and even an animated series. At the time, the most popular arcade games were mostly space shooters, distantly followed by games similar to the original pong. The originality of the game-play and the challenge the game was able to offer has translated well over time, making it one of the most recognized video games among American consumers.

While the old arcade systems are more likely to be found in museums than in the nearest arcade and the old Nintendo Entertainment System has long been out of production, people looking to challenge the game can do so through the many emulators and flash games sites that have popped up over the years. The player plays as Pacman, navigating him through each level to consume all the pac-dots while avoiding contact with the ghosts that give chase. There are also four larger pac-dots in the corners of each level known as power pellets that temporarily grant the character the ability to eat the ghosts. Once a power pellet is consumed, the ghosts turn blue and reverse direction, slowing down at the same time making it easier to chase them. While the ghost's movements were noticeably independent of each other, in a recent gaming event in 2011, Toru Iwatani, the game's creator detailed the secret behind the ghosts' behavior, prompting players to take up the challenge of going through the entirety of the game's 254 playable levels.

Pacman was originally designed never to end, but this was limited by the game's internal level counter which only used one byte of memory. Consequently, every time a player reached the 255th level, the right half of the screen would populate with what would seem to be random symbols. This effectively ended the game since there was no way to consume the necessary pac-dots to complete the level. However those playing some Pacman flash game versions or emulated versions will be able to continue on playing the game. The game would just roll back to level 1 conditions while the ghosts would still retain their higher speeds. The highest achievable score in the original game was 3,333,360 points which ultimately led to the famed "kill screen". Flash game players now have a shot at challenging this just by playing online.

If you would like to try out the classic Pacman Flash game, then check out gaming-district.com, where you can also find other Flash arcade games and more.

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