Whether you are a huge fan of retro arcade games, novel writing instruments, or just adore the good old classic PAC-MAN, you will want to check out the new Montegrappa PAC-MAN: Ghostwriter Writing Instrument. Note: I said “check out”. It doesn’t necessarily mean ‘buy’ because, well, the price isn’t for everyone. But more on that in a sec.
The Ghostwriter is Montegrappa’s first dive into video game culture, and boy, did they go straight for the power pellet. Crafted from blackened brass, the body recreates the original PAC-MAN maze in tactile 3D relief, with contours that are precisely machined and sandblasted for a grip that feels like you’re holding a slice of arcade history. Tiny pixel-perfect enamel characters—PAC-MAN himself, plus his spectral frenemies Blinky, Inky, Pinky, and Clyde—dot the surface in glossy cloisonné, making it equal parts nostalgia trip and luxury desk flex.
Montegrappa swears the design is meant to transmit “positivity” and “forward momentum.” Translation: it wants to give you the same confidence as when you dodge ghosts and chomp fruit on level 5. Available in two flavors, the smooth-rolling rollerball or a deluxe fountain pen with a silky 14K gold nib, Ghostwriter promises writing that’s as lively as its arcade inspiration.
Specs-wise, the pen is all-brass with ion plating, milled details, and a reassuring weight. The design is as tactile as it is nerdy, and while it won’t rack up a high score, it might rack up some envious stares at the office.
Now, about that price. The PAC-MAN: Ghostwriter starts at €1,295 (~1,521 USD) for the rollerball, while the fountain pen will set you back €1,850 (~2,173 USD). A bit steep, but hey, luxury nostalgia was never going to come cheap.
Images: Montegrappa.
