Galaga will soon be available on Panasonic IFE equipped aircraft

Until the end of the 20th Century, nostalgia was regarded as a psychological issue. However, recent academic and scientific studies have proven the contrary.

In 2017, a study by the University of Southampton, found that once people enter into a state of nostalgia, their moods are elevated, their self-esteem is boosted and they feel more content.

Last year, Netflix released an ‘Arabic nostalgia’ season in the run up to Eid during lockdown. All titles came from the 1970s and ‘80s. The hope was to create a sense of connection and shared reminiscence during the enforced period at home.

So, it’s no surprise to see airlines tapping into this stream, as they begin preparations for a recovery of air travel.

British Airway, for example, has already teamed up with celebrity chef Tom Kerridge for its short-haul menu, which includes British favourites Warm Steak and Ale Pie and Ploughman’s Sandwich.

Now, gamers can re-run their misspent youth following the impending availability of retro games on IFE systems offered by Panasonic.

The company has partnered with Bandai Namco Entertainment Inc, the developer behind such multi-million-selling video game franchises such as Pac-Man (the best selling arcade game of all time) and  Galaga, the follow-up to the acclaimed fixed shooter, Galaxian.

With so many of us being grounded for so long, airlines are hoping these connections to the past will allay any fears of returning to flying and a bright new future.

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