Google is celebrating Halloween and the 45th anniversary of PAC-MAN with a special playable Doodle that transforms its homepage into a mini arcade. The limited-time “PAC-MAN: Halloween 2025 Edition” features eight levels, including four haunted-house mazes developed in collaboration with Bandai Namco, the original creators of the game.
The Doodle brings a seasonal twist to the classic maze-chase formula. Players guide PAC-MAN through ghostly corridors, collecting dots and avoiding Blinky, Inky, Pinky, and Clyde — the iconic quartet of ghosts. Each haunted maze has its own visual style, reflecting the unique personality of the ghost that roams within. As always, grabbing a Power Pellet flips the chase, letting PAC-MAN pursue the ghosts instead.
This edition is more than just a nostalgic nod; it’s a blend of classic gameplay with Halloween flair, complete with eerie designs and thematic music that enhance the spooky atmosphere. The Doodle is available on Google’s homepage only for two days, encouraging fans to revisit one of gaming’s most enduring icons before it disappears.
Google’s playable Doodles have become a recurring way for the company to celebrate cultural milestones and engage users interactively. From past tributes to arcade classics like Snake and Breakout to educational games honoring historical figures, these short experiences often bridge nostalgia with simple, universal fun. The PAC-MAN Doodle continues that tradition while tapping into one of the most recognizable titles in gaming history — a reminder of how a simple concept from 1980 remains part of global pop culture.
For longtime fans and newcomers alike, it’s an easy way to relive the arcade era directly from a web browser, no download required. The Halloween-themed version adds a timely layer of festive charm, offering both a seasonal diversion and a celebration of a gaming milestone.
