All who come to give blood or platelets Nov. 17-Dec. 7, 2025, will score an exclusive pair of Red Cross x PAC-MAN socks, and a custom Red Cross x PAC-MAN GASHAPON, while supplies last.
This partnership comes at a critical time. Right now, the Red Cross is facing a drop in donor turnout at a time when making and keeping appointments is critical to providing lifesaving blood products for patients during the holidays.
“The last two months of the year can be a challenge to maintain a strong blood supply,” said Darren Irby, executive director of Brand and Partnerships with the Red Cross. “Seasonal activities, holiday planning, inclement weather and cold and flu season all can prevent people from giving blood during this time of year. We are thrilled to work with PAC-MAN to help encourage more donations during this critical period.”
Originally released as a coin-operated arcade cabinet in 1980, PAC-MAN is one of the most influential and longest-running video game franchises in history. 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 two animated television 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 in 2025, PAC-MAN™ commemorates its 45th Anniversary with a variety of partnerships, activations and launches.
“PAC-MAN has always been about bringing people together and spreading joy,” said Susan Tran, Sr. Director of Brand Development for PAC-MAN at Bandai Namco Entertainment America Inc. “We’re proud to celebrate 45 years of that legacy by teaming up with the Red Cross to encourage new audiences to take part in something equally rewarding—saving lives through blood donation.”
Blood and platelets are needed every day for accident and burn victims, heart surgery and organ transplant patients, and those receiving treatment for leukemia, cancer or sickle cell disease, among others. Every two seconds someone needs a transfusion.
Make an impact.
Reserve your spot to give blood or platelets by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App, or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). See RedCrossBlood.org/PACMAN for promotional details. To help empower and educate blood donors, in November, successful donations will get free A1C testing, commonly used to screen for prediabetes and diabetes. (One test result in a 12-month period; do not fast before donating). Visit RedCrossBlood.org/diabetes for more information.