Quick hit: a Pac‑Man–themed art car called “The Ghost Train” is teasing a bigger build for the playa — the team has one Pac‑Man and one ghost already and says they want to build the rest of the ghosts and fill them with lights, sound, lasers, fire powders and smoke machines. They’re planning a crowdfunding push next week and posted a preview with night photos of the rolling setup.
What they want: a linked train of characters — Pac‑Man and multiple ghosts — decked out with LEDs, lasers, fog and fire effects to create a roaming, immersive experience on playa. The idea is intentionally playful (Pac‑Man being chased by its own ghosts), and the preview photo shows a bright Pac‑Man wheel, a ghost panel outlined in LED, and a large lit elephant head nearby.
Community reaction was a mixed bag: several commenters pointed out Pac‑Man ghosts and similar art cars have appeared at Burning Man and regional events like Nowhere in past years, so the concept isn’t totally new. Others raised practical concerns: linking trailers or art cars into trains introduces DMV and safety complexity, and lasers and pyrotechnic effects (“fire powders”) will trigger additional permits and fire safety requirements.
If this project moves forward, it’ll need to nail the safety and permitting side: onboard spotters, proper fire safety officers, approved pyrotechnic plans (if any), and a clear laser classification and use plan that complies with playa/DMV rules. That’s standard for any art car doing moving effects, especially when other camps and participants are nearby.
Why it matters: Burning Man and regional events are where big, playful art cars live or die depending on how well their teams handle safety and community impact. A Pac‑Man train with lights, sound and theatrical effects could be a festival highlight — as long as it’s squared away with the right permits and safety checks first.
Heads up: the project said they’ll post crowdfunding details next week — if you want to get involved or help fund fabrication, keep an eye out. And if you’ve seen Pac‑Man or ghosts roaming your regionals, drop a note in the comments — the playa likes to remix good ideas.
Tags: Burning Man, art car, Pac‑Man, Ghost Train, playa, crowdfunding
Source: https://www.reddit.com/r/BurningMan/comments/1qjaxjz/the_ghost_train/