You can play Ms. Pac-Man on Google Maps for April Fool’s Day

Credit: Google Maps

Credit: Google Maps

It's April Fool's Day, but this is no prank. You can play Ms. Pac-Man on Google Maps for a day.

Google Maps has had a tradition of prank videos or games. In 2015, the arcade classic Pac-Man game was used. This year, when you call up Google Maps on your browser and pick a location, the lower left-hand corner will display an image of Ms. Pac-Man and an invitation to “Insert Coin.” After clicking the image (located next to the Earth image), Google Maps will evaluate your location. If there are not enough streets, Google Maps will redesign it so it resembles the board from the classic arcade game.

Arrow keys are used to guide Ms. Pac-Man through the maze of streets, which contain those magic pills that allow her to eat those villains.

For adults who grew up in the 1980s, this is a nostalgic trip that won’t cost money — unless you’re on your phone since the game will tap into your data reserves for the month. With so many people using smartphones and tablets, Ms. Pac-Man will find a new audience.

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