Fender and Bandai Namco Launch Game-changing PAC-MAN Telecaster and Apparel Collection

Today, Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) and Bandai Namco Entertainment America Inc. reveal a brilliant new Fender x PAC-MAN™ collaboration, bringing together two cultural icons as both brands celebrate significant anniversaries in 2026.

As Fender continues its celebrations of 75 years of the Telecaster and PAC-MAN celebrates the culmination of its 45th Anniversary this month, the release of the Limited Edition PAC-MAN Player II Telecaster pays homage to the legacy of two brands who have made their mark on the worlds of music, video games and entertainment. Just like songs that endure over time, PAC-MAN taps into something deeper than nostalgia. Its striking visuals serve as the perfect inspiration for the creative energy behind this new collaboration.

“Teaming up with Bandai Namco isn't just a partnership, it's a collision of two cultural forces that have shaped generations," said Justin Norvell, Chief Product Officer at Fender. "Fender and PAC-MAN share something rare: the ability to make people feel something profound, decade after decade. Our new offering honors that legacy with the uncompromising craftsmanship Fender is known for, wrapped in the unmistakable iconography of one of gaming's greatest legends - a natural expression of two icons that have never stopped inspiring, built for the fans who grew up with both, and for the players who carry that spirit forward.”

“As we celebrate our milestone anniversaries, our PAC-MAN collaboration with Fender captures the endearing legacy of two global icons that have created memories across generations, and done so in the hands of people who have been able to experience joy and showcase their skill,” said Susan Tran, Sr. Director of Brand Development for PAC-MAN at Bandai Namco Entertainment America Inc. “Seeing and holding the PAC-MAN Player II Telecaster, it just feels right, as if this is exactly how these two timeless brands were meant to come together, in something exquisite that conjures nostalgia, feels familiar, and inspires creativity the moment it is in your hands.”

The limited edition guitar arrives emblazoned with the iconic PAC-MAN maze as the titular character chomps to victory while surrounded by rival Ghosts Blinky, Inky, Pinky and Clyde in hot pursuit. Coupled with the Fender x PAC-MAN logo on the reverse, its bold illustrations are a nostalgic throwback to the classic arcade game’s roots, while its beginner friendly specs – including a comfortable Modern “C”-profile neck, 22 medium jumbo frets, and a timeless 9.5"-radius rosewood fingerboard with rolled edges – offer an instrument that delivers premium playability for all skill levels.

The arcade-ready guitar is accompanied by a striking clothing release exclusive to Japan, arriving in July 2026 under the brand’s coveted ‘F IS FOR FENDER’ apparel line. Available at both Fender’s Flagship Tokyo store and the F IS FOR FENDER website, the eye-catching F Is For Fender × PAC-MAN collection includes three retro-inspired premium cotton T-Shirts in a range of colorways, from The Player Tee giving the beloved character his own guitar, The Picks Tee reimagining Pac-Dots as guitar plectrums, to The Ghost Tee spotlighting the classic character’s iconic nemeses. The collection also offers two nostalgia-infused baseball caps, each featuring the Fender F beside either a pixel-perfect Inky on stone grey cap, or Blinky on black cap. 

Originally released as a coin-operated arcade cabinet, PAC-MAN is one of the most influential and longest-running video game franchises in history. In the game, players control PAC-MAN who has to chomp PAC-Dots while being chased by colorful Ghosts in mazes that get increasingly more difficult with each level. Since the official introduction of its innovative gameplay and game design, PAC-MAN sparked a worldwide phenomenon that attracted multiple generations of players across genders. Its popularity led to several game sequels, a full merchandising program and hit music single as well as three animated series. With record breaking achievements, PAC-MAN has been recognized by the Guinness World Records with awards such as “Most Successful Coin-Operated Game.” The franchise continues to release new console and mobile games and is currently commemorating its 46th Anniversary with a variety of partnerships, activations and launches.