This category of electronic entertainment is defined by gameplay that centers on navigating a character through a maze-like environment, with the primary objective of consuming small objects scattered throughout the play area. A classic example features a yellow, circular character that attempts to eat all the dots in a maze while being pursued by enemy entities.
These games hold a significant place in the history of video games, contributing substantially to the arcade industry’s growth and establishing enduring gameplay conventions. Their simple mechanics and compelling challenge made them accessible to a wide audience, resulting in considerable revenue and establishing characters as cultural icons.