Fender levels up its iconic lineup with a retro-gaming collaboration that sounds as good as it looks. Here is everything you need to know about the new Fender x PAC-MAN Telecaster.
Fender has officially announced a high-score partnership with Bandai Namco, merging the world of legendary arcade gaming with world-class craftsmanship. The result? The Limited Edition Fender x PAC-MAN Player II Telecaster.
Priced at £949.00, this isn’t just a novelty item for a display case. It is a high-performance machine built on the foundation of the recently launched Player II series, designed to satisfy both professional musicians and hardcore collectors.
Arcade Legend Meets Fender Legacy
The collaboration aims to bridge the generational gap. While the vibrant graphics of PAC-MAN chasing Blinky, Pinky, Inky, and Clyde across the black Alder body will undoubtedly appeal to millennials and retro gaming enthusiasts, the “under the hood” specs are pure Fender.
The guitar features the classic PAC-MAN game screen graphic on the front, while the iconic yellow PAC-MAN logo adorns the back. To round out the custom look, it features a custom 3-ply black/white/black pickguard and a 4-bolt neck plate stamped with the Fender “F” logo.
Built for Playability: The Player II Edge
This limited edition isn’t just about the paint job. It benefits from the significant upgrades found in the Player II Series, making it one of the most playable Telecasters in its price bracket.
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The Neck: A “Modern C” profile maple neck provides a fast, comfortable feel for any playing style.
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The Fingerboard: In a move praised by purists, it features a Rosewood fingerboard with a 9.5” radius and—crucially—rolled edges. This “broken-in” feel is usually reserved for much more expensive models.
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The Tone: It is equipped with two Player Series Alnico V Single-Coil Tele® pickups. Expect the signature Fender “twang,” characterized by crystalline highs, punchy mids, and a tight low end.
Hardware and Reliability
Fender has ensured that this guitar stays in tune even during the most frantic solos. It features ClassicGear™ tuning machines and a 6-saddle string-through-body bridge with block steel saddles, offering superior intonation and sustain compared to vintage-style 3-saddle bridges.
Product Specifications at a Glance
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Body Material: Alder (Gloss Polyester Finish)
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Neck: Maple, Modern “C” Shape
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Fingerboard: Rosewood, 22 Medium Jumbo Frets
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Pickups: 2x Player Series Alnico 5 Tele® Single-Coils
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Bridge: 6-Saddle String-Through-Body Tele®
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Included Accessories: Deluxe Gig Bag
FAQ: Fender x PAC-MAN Telecaster
How much does the PAC-MAN Telecaster cost?
The guitar is retail priced at £949.00 inc. VAT in the UK.
Is this a limited release?
Yes. As part of the Limited Edition series, once the production run is finished, it will likely become a sought-after collector’s item.
Does it come with a case?
Yes, the guitar includes a Fender Deluxe Gig Bag.
Is the PAC-MAN graphic a sticker?
No, the graphic is professionally printed and finished with a gloss polyester coating for durability and a premium look.
What makes the “Player II” version better than the original Player series?
The Player II series introduces rolled fingerboard edges for better comfort and returns to Rosewood fingerboards, along with upgraded ClassicGear tuners.
The Verdict
The Good
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Stunning Aesthetics: The PAC-MAN graphics are vibrant and nostalgically perfect.
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Pro-Grade Specs: The Player II upgrades (rolled edges, Alnico V pickups) make this a serious instrument.
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Collectability: Limited edition collaborations between Fender and major brands like Bandai Namco tend to hold their value well.
The Bad
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Price Premium: You are paying a slight premium for the licensing and graphics compared to a standard Player II Telecaster.
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Polarizing Design: The bold graphics might be “too much” for traditionalists who prefer a classic Sunburst or Butterscotch finish.
Final Score: 7.5 / 10
Web Exclusive
The Fender x PAC-MAN Player II Telecaster is a rare example of a “graphic guitar” done right. It doesn’t sacrifice quality for kitsch. Underneath the ghosts and power pellets lies a rock-solid, professional-grade Telecaster that sounds incredible. Whether you’re a gigging musician or a collector, this is a “Power Pellet” for your gear collection.
# Fender x PAC-MAN Telecaster
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