Baby Pac-Man

Baby Pac-Man is a hybrid arcade game released by Bally Midway in 1982. A unique combination of a pinball machine and a video game, it seamlessly blends the classic Pac-Man gameplay with traditional pinball elements. Players control Baby Pac-Man as he navigates a maze to eat pellets while avoiding ghosts, but when he enters the ghost house, the game transitions to a miniaturized pinball table. This innovative fusion of genres offered players a novel and engaging gaming experience.

The development of Baby Pac-Man can be traced back to the success of Pac-Man and the desire to create a novel and innovative gaming experience. Bally Midway, known for its pinball machines, collaborated with Namco to create a game that combined the thrill of pinball with the beloved Pac-Man characters. Released in 1982, the game represented a bold attempt to push the boundaries of arcade gaming by merging two popular genres.

Upon its release, Baby Pac-Man received mixed reviews. While some praised the creative blend of pinball and video game elements, others found the hybrid concept challenging to grasp. The game’s reception was also influenced by its unconventional nature, as players needed to master both pinball and maze navigation skills. Despite the mixed reviews, Baby Pac-Man has gained a cult following among retro gaming enthusiasts for its uniqueness.

Baby Pac-Man exists primarily in its original hybrid arcade form, but there are no direct sequels. However, it remains part of the larger Pac-Man franchise, contributing to the legacy of the iconic character. The game’s distinctive combination of pinball and video game elements makes it a standout entry in the Pac-Man series.

Baby Pac-Man is considered a rare arcade machine, and its scarcity contributes to its value among collectors. Only a limited number of units were produced, making it a sought-after piece for retro gaming enthusiasts. The exact production numbers vary, with estimates suggesting that a few thousand units were made. Due to its rarity and the growing interest in classic arcade games, Baby Pac-Man machines can command a significant price on the collector’s market.

Baby Pac-Man’s hardware includes a Zilog Z80 microprocessor, Namco Pac-Man hardware for the video game section, and a custom pinball board for the pinball section. Relevant parts for possible repairs include the maze video display, pinball components such as flippers and bumpers, and the unique hardware connecting the two gameplay elements. Repairing and maintaining Baby Pac-Man may require a combination of video game and pinball machine expertise. Detailed repair guides and documentation are available within the arcade gaming community to assist enthusiasts in keeping these unique hybrid machines in working condition.

Arcade Video Game Price and Field Guide:

Baby Pac-Man:
Dedicated Upright, Arcade/Pinball Hybrid
Genre: Maze, Pinball, Hunt and Score

Upright (19,000-21,000 Manufactured)

Lower – 1250
Average – 1500
Higher – 2000+
Price can vary widely for this title

Note:
Combines a small pinball machine with a traditional CRT arcade monitor above the pinball playfield which plays a watered-down versi0n of Pac-Man. Game was developed without the direct of Pac-Man copyright owner Namco.