Quote from: qwk on July 28, 2018, 11:10:33 AM

Namco opened the rights to Pac-Man and a few other games a while ago, explicitly allowing artwork that would usually fall under "derivative works"

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):

Quote

Developers and game companies will be required to register with Bandai Namco Games and apply for the use of the properties before beginning development, but the company plans to approve all applications on principle unless the game contains offensive content. (animenewsnetwork.com)

Quote

Bandai Namco Games will receive a small percentage of sales for companies who apply to use the intellectual property to develop a paid game. The company is also planning an advertising scheme for developers making free games, with Bandai Namco also receiving a small percentage of ad revenue. (animenewsnetwork.com)