Pacman: the classic maze game of dots and ghosts

About Pacman

Pacman is a classic arcade maze game in which you control a little yellow character that must eat every dot on the board without being caught by the ghosts. You clear the level when no dots are left in the maze.

It is one of the most recognizable games in video game history: simple rules, quick rounds and that mix of tension and fun that makes you want one more try. If you want to play Pacman online without downloading anything, the classic version is ready in your browser.

The key is to move smartly: the ghosts patrol the corridors and you must decide at every junction where to go. The big dots in the maze usually give you a short advantage to turn the chase around. It is a single-player game suitable for all ages.

How to play Pacman?

In Pacman you run through a maze full of dots while ghosts chase you. The goal is to eat all the dots without letting any ghost touch you.

Pick a direction to start moving through the maze.
Eat the dots along the corridors: each one adds to your score.
Turn at junctions to get away from the ghosts.
When you grab one of the big dots, take the chance to chase the ghosts.
Clear every dot from the maze to move on to the next level.

Pacman controls

PC

Keyboard: the arrow keys are normally used to change Pacman's direction.
Pacman keeps moving on its own; you decide where to turn at each junction.
Click the game before you start so it receives your key presses.

Mobile

On touch screens, the game may show on-screen controls or respond to swipes; try it on your device.

Tips and tricks: Pacman

Do not stand still: plan your route through the corridors so you do not get trapped in a dead end.
Watch each ghost's pattern; after a few rounds you will learn where they tend to go.
Save the big dots for when several ghosts are close by.
Use the side tunnels, if the maze has them, to shake off the ghosts.
Clear the maze in sections so you do not leave stray dots that are hard to reach later.