It was originally, and consistently an arcade game but its popularity made it obvious to cater for the home market so it was then progammed for home game consoles. Many family members spent too long fascinated by the play! Its designer, Iwatani, had targeted females, thinking it more attractive with its less violent intent and action.
It is said that Iwatani was eating pizza and looking at the pizza marked by his bite, had the idea of Pac man 'chomping' cookies (dots) as he went around the maze, chased by the ghosts.