Blink-182 and Pac-Man Launched Collaboration
The music and gaming icons teamed up for a new web game and merchandise line.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Pop
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Bandai Namco and Blink-182 have released a collaborative web game and exclusive merchandise collection. The partnership marks the 25th anniversary of the band’s album Take Off Your Pants and Jacket.
Why it matters
The collaboration highlights the enduring cultural impact of both the band and the arcade franchise. By integrating music and gaming, the partners created a digital experience to engage their respective fan bases.
The initiative celebrates the 25th anniversary of the album Take Off Your Pants and Jacket alongside the 45th anniversary of the Pac-Man franchise.
The players
Blink-182
Blink-182 is a globally recognized American rock band known for popularizing pop-punk during the 1990s and 2000s.
Bandai Namco
Bandai Namco is a major Japanese multinational video game developer and publisher responsible for the iconic Pac-Man franchise.
Mark Hoppus
Mark Hoppus is a founding member, bassist, and vocalist of the rock band Blink-182.
The details
Players can access a browser-based game featuring band-themed visuals, including a Blink-182 van, and integrate their personal music apps to listen to the band during gameplay. The merchandise line includes a T-shirt previously worn by bassist Mark Hoppus during the 2023 Coachella festival.
Timeline
Mark Hoppus wore the commemorative T-shirt at Coachella in 2023.
Pac-Man celebrated its 45th anniversary in 2025.
A teaser trailer for the project was released in September 2026.
The collaboration content and merchandise officially launched on September 24, 2026.
Industry Dynamics
This collaboration follows a trend of cross-industry marketing where established music acts integrate with legacy gaming franchises to drive consumer engagement. It positions the brands within the broader scope of digital merchandise drops that bridge pop culture nostalgia with modern streaming platforms.
Fans can access the free browser-based game by selecting the Pac-Man tab online and integrating their own music streaming accounts. The limited-edition merchandise, including the T-shirt worn by Mark Hoppus, is available for purchase exclusively through the official band online store.
The takeaway
This partnership demonstrates how legacy brands can effectively leverage anniversary milestones to create interactive digital experiences for fans. Integrating streaming music with browser games provides a low-barrier way for audiences to engage with new merchandise and creative content.
Further reading
Explore the latest in Pop to see how artists continue to bridge the gap between music and interactive entertainment.
Live Poll
Would you play a band-themed video game or purchase artist-collaborated merchandise?
