Yes, but this concerns the development of video games based on that universe, not the use of a character design in a whole. Also these "derivative works" need to be registered somewhere in Namco's halls and their creators should pay the "tribute" if the game is commercial (or allow the ads):


Also Google said, it's highly possible that Pacman is registered as trademark. In that case anyone who would use it's depiction without permission can be sued. Though it depends on the degree the new character resembles the original Pacman and what the new character's created for, but all of this would have to be proven in court if the copyright holder won't appreciate the parody.

I just assume that it's risky and may require more actions rather then just draw a picture.

More topic-related links:
https://law.stackexchange.com/questions/19544/would-fair-use-apply-to-the-usage-of-pac-man-within-a-qr-code
https://www.quora.com/Copyright-Infringement-Can-you-use-a-popular-image-in-non-commercial-communications
https://smallbusiness.chron.com/fair-use-logos-2152.html
https://www.copyright.gov/fair-use/more-info.html


Perhaps shutterstock has a license.

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In fact before I saw the original image, I thought that I'm looking at frying pan.:)


Actually that icon is more suitable for libraries or pocket book applications.


Interesting variant - especially when it's single.