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The best arcade machines
Bored of your current gaming equipment?
If you’re looking for gaming equipment that can amp up your recreational space, an arcade machine might be the ultimate solution.
Getting your own arcade cabinet will enable you to play an array of classic games alongside the familiar arcade controls. The tactile button, towering bodies and small screens provide a unique gaming experience that modern-day consoles don’t.
If you’re in the market for a quality arcade machine, here are a few recommendations you’re sure to love.
Best overall
Arcade1Up Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Arcade Machine
Arcade1Up Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Arcade Machine
Arcade 1Up adds a custom riser to this package. Although it adds to the price, it makes the cabinet comfortable enough for four-player action.
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It’s not too late to teach your teenagers how to use arcade machines. With Arcade 1Up’s Mutant Ninja Arcade Machine, your teenagers learn how to play games on this retro machine while familiarizing themselves with old comic heroes like the Foot Clan and the Shredder.
This TMNT cabinet is somewhat different from other Arcade 1Up machines as it comes with four sets of buttons and joysticks.
This means up to four players can play a game simultaneously, and each player can choose a favorite ninja turtle. The four-player design makes the control deck stick out more on either side of the machine.
You might notice the theme song is different from what TMNT used, but playing on this machine is exciting.
The LCD screen illuminates bright and vibrant colors without causing adverse visual effects. You’ll also love the dual speakers, which release a punchy sound at maximum volume, warming you up for the game.
Best premium
Arcade 1Up Classic Galaga Arcade Machine
Arcade 1Up Classic Galaga Arcade Machine
The fact that it’s a riser means short people can also play games using the cabinet only. However, the additional height enhances comfort for most gamers who want to play games while standing.
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Initially, Arcade 1Up offered standard four-foot cabinets to play games. They have 17-inch LCD screens, a selection menu to change games, coinless operation, volume controls, and are powered from an AC outlet.
However, four-foot cabinet machines might not provide the actual retro-gaming experience when playing classic games. As such, Arcade 1Up decided to develop another device called the Riser to boost the height of the cabinets. Arcade 1Up Classic Riser is an excellent example.
It is 45.8 inches tall, the perfect size when playing in a sitting position, but if you’re using the machine while standing, the riser increases the height to 57.8 inches.
Besides the comfortable height, the Riser has two classic games pre-installed- the Galaga and Galaxian. The immersive high-resolution displays combined with the control buttons and original joystick recreate a traditional gaming experience.
Best affordable
Quarter Arcades Bubble Bobble Arcade Machine
Quarter Arcades Bubble Bobble Arcade Machine
Its overall construction stands out. The bezel, wooden cabinet, and side art are so detailed it’s challenging to distinguish them from an original Pac Man.
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Want to take a trip down memory lane? Buy this mini-arcade from Quarter Arcade. The machine is expertly designed to mimic classic arcade cabinets allowing you to enjoy playing classic games at home.
Its miniature size of 43 x 16 x 21 cm means you can set it up at the corner of your game room without taking up lots of space.
In fact, it’s a quarter the size of an original retro arcade machine. On to its playability, and you’ll be pleased you purchased this gem. The device plays flawlessly with every detail thought out to give you a great gaming experience.
What’s more, it supports dual-player mode, albeit the miniature size. The cabinet is also equipped with a rechargeable lithium battery supporting up to four hours of gameplay on a full charge.
Best for kids
My Arcade Bubble Bobble Mini Arcade Machine
My Arcade Bubble Bobble Mini Arcade Machine
This arcade machine is perfect for on-the-go gaming. Its miniature size allows you to pack compactly and the fact that 4 AA batteries can power it means you don’t need a power source to play games.
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The current trend of producing mini-gaming devices has spiraled to retro-gaming. Now you can play original versions of Pac-Man, Galaga, Caveman Ninja, and Bad Dudes from a miniature arcade machine like My Arcade Micro Player Mini.
The device measures 8.6 x 5.7 x 5.1 inches and has a minuscule 2.75-inch display taking up the least place in your game room. In fact, you can add it to your collection of gaming relics like DC Icons, Marvel Legends and more.
The cabinet has a 3.5 mm headphone jack and a removable joystick allowing you to choose between a d-pad and a joystick.
And if you’re wondering how this machine stacks up to others, it provides relatively good gameplay. With the two rubber strips holding the machine in place, you can play games and use a mini-arcade cabinet.
Best modern
Arcade1Up Star Wars Arcade Machine
Arcade1Up Star Wars Arcade Machine
The flight yoke on the control panel provides a sweet retro and modern gaming spot. It feels like tilting a steering wheel similar to modern gaming controls while reproducing the movement of original arcade controls.
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If you want to relive the fond memories of Star Wars arcade games, check out the Arcade 1Up Star Wars Home Cabinet. It allows you to play the three classic Star Wars games- Star Wars, Star Wars Return, and the Empire Strikes Back.
You may find it pricier than most Arcade 1Up cabinets due to the few improvements added. The most notable is the lighted marquee that displays a full-color logo of the games and the speakers mounted on the top control panel instead of using built-in controls.
The cabinet also comes with a riser, allowing you only to use the 47-inch tall cabinet or increase its height to 60 inches. The flight yoke on the control panel is another feature that stands out. It consists of a large plastic box with a metal pipe that holds two hand grips extending left to right.
You can twist the yoke up and down when making vertical movements and clockwise or anticlockwise for the horizontal direction. Since the machine has only one flight yoke and the pre-installed games are for single-play only, only one gamer can use the cabinet at a time.
Best cocktail arcade machine
Creative Outdoor Distributor Classic Arcade Machine
Creative Outdoor Distributor Classic Arcade Machine
The machine has four joysticks making it a perfect pick for multiplay. Each of the joysticks has corresponding button controls enhancing convenience for all the players.
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This machine provides the ultimate gaming experience for the 80s and 90s arcade gaming enthusiasts. With up to 1162 games, you can invite your fellow gaming freaks to explore the vast range of pre-installed games.
The gaming repertoire is more than the classic Galaga and Pac-Man; it has experimental games too. Dragon’s Lair and Space Ace stand out among other titles.
Thankfully, the machine is pre-assembled, so you only need to plug it into a power source to start playing.
The control panel is designed to accommodate multiplay. It has four Sanwa joysticks, a trackball, and a large screen. The 26-inch LCD monitor is wide enough for all the players to monitor their progress and the four joysticks allow up to four players to play.
A thick tempered glass is used to cover it, keeping it tip-top shape. The screen can also be tilted when playing horizontal games allowing players to choose between a flat and tilted screen.
The graphics aren’t as good as those on Xbox and PS4 gaming consoles but adequate to recreate a classing gaming experience.
Best for tabletop
MSP Arcade1Up MS. Pac-Man Arcade Machine
MSP Arcade1Up MS. Pac-Man Arcade Machine
MS. Pac-Man Counter Cade comes fully assembled, saving you the hassle of putting parts together, especially for amateur builders. Also, it has four games pre-loaded which is a bonus if looking for specific Pac-Man versions.
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If you’re a fan of Pac-Man retro games, this machine should give you a feel of what original Pac-Man games felt like. Overall, the machine has a miniature construction (19.5 x 13 x 12 inches), which supports vertical games only.
The Counter Cade is an upgrade from the original machine and features a range of new features. Notably, the joystick is more of a Sanwa clone, which significantly improves your gaming experience.
Previously, Arcade 1Up used leaf spring joysticks which caused significant lag when playing games.
The machine is also equipped with a plexiglass cover on the control panel to avoid wearing off the graphics. This model has four buttons (for two players) and a joystick, which you need to play the game.
Best for basement
Arcade1Up Pac-Man Classic Arcade Machine
Arcade1Up Pac-Man Classic Arcade Machine
The machine appears quite large (58 pounds) compared to modern gaming systems, but Arcade aims to create a nostalgic gaming experience when playing Pac-Man and Pac-Man Plus games.
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Back in the 80s and 90s, one would hardly walk a stretch without hitting a Pac-Man arcade machine, and this one from Arcade 1Up helps you relive those moments perfectly.
It’s pretty easy to assemble and doesn’t take up too much space, even for those living in small apartments.
Setting it up can be a little challenging for amateur builders but 1UP’s tech support team helps you address any assembly and system issues promptly. The control panel is intuitive, allowing you to operate the game selection menu and adjust the volume.
You’ll find the joystick pretty responsive to commands and firm so you don’t have to worry about breaking it within a few weeks of use.
Best for adults
ARCADE1UP Street Fighter Arcade Machine
ARCADE1UP Street Fighter Arcade Machine
Although the 17-inch screen has a low resolution of 1280 x 1024, it recreates the games just as they were in the 90s. The ability to choose from three Street Fighter classics is another bonus.
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The dream of any dedicated arcade gamer is to own a machine, and this one from ARCADE1UP is the real deal for Street Fighter fans.
It comes with a range of games, with the Street Fighter renditions standing out. It has the Street Fighter 11 Turbo, Champion Edition, and the new challengers.
Its overall construction is quite sturdy. The entire cabinet is made from MDF with a 17-inch LCD screen, and the buttons on the control panel are easy to use. It has a height of 46 inches (top to bottom), and the control panel is 25 inches high, the perfect size for a three or four-year-old.
If it’s too short for you, get the riser to play comfortably while standing up. The control panel is pretty intuitive as it displays all the pre-installed games.
Best arcade console
Tander Pandora 9S+ Console Arcade Game
Tander Pandora 9S+ Console Arcade Game
The console supports two players, but you can add the number of players to four when playing online. Pandora adds a set of spare buttons which is another bonus.
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If buying arcade cabinets isn’t your cup of tea, try this gaming console from Pandora. It boasts a vast range of retro games, some dating back to the 1970s and newer editions. You will find titles like Ms Pac-Man bubble bobble, the Mario Brothers and more, perfect for oldies.
It’s easy to set it up because you only need to connect it to a monitor or other device. What’s more, with the two output options (VGA, HDMI), you can connect the console to other devices, including a projector, TV, laptop and more.
The color graphics and the sound are exceptional, and you can adjust the volume at the back of the system.
Overall the console is a great arcade emulator that’s highly portable and has a vast range of games for you and your friends to play.
What to look for in a good arcade machine
The new generation of gamers is familiar with new gaming consoles and online games, not old school gaming. This means they hardly know the features to look for when buying an arcade machine. We’re here to help you:
Type of game
The first thing is to decide on the type of game you want to play. Do you want to play one game or many? Typically, there are two types of arcade machines- single-player and multiplayer machines.
Single-player machines allow gamers to play one game while the latter provides a broader range of games. Modern arcade multi-game machines have thousands of games thanks to tech-savvy tools like MAME that free games from physical chips.
New or reconditioned
Although retrogaming is a reasonably new concept among modern gamers, the production of arcade machines still goes on. However, most devices come refurbished. It’s essential to purchase them from reputable firms well-versed in reconditioning arcade machines.
They are tested extensively before a sale, and the company should provide a warranty. Typically, refurbished arcade machines are discounted devices whose production has ceased and reconditioning them is the only way to own one.
Price
If buying a fully-assembled arcade machine, you should be ready to spend up to $2000. However, you can knock off a few dollars based on the type of machine you want. Cocktail-style arcade machines, for example, cost $950, while upright cabinet machines cost up to $1300.
Check the hardware, too, because it adds to the price. Machines with extra features like 4K resolution screens and a control panel with lighting cost more.
Type of arcade machine
Arcade machines are available in different designs and styles. The most common is the arcade console. It’s smaller than regular upright cabinet arcade machines but more versatile than multi-game cabinets. You can connect it to a monitor and other home entertainment devices like the sound system.
The other type is the dedicated commercial arcade. It’s the best for gamers who want to recreate an authentic retro-gaming experience. It’s similar to machines sold to bowling alleys and arcade operators, except it’s more elaborate.
Some dedicated commercial arcades are fitted with controls like steering wheels for driving when racing. In fact, some dedicated commercial arcades can be connected together for multiplayer gaming.
Space
Although arcade machines don’t take up as much space as other gaming installations, the available space determines the type of arcade machine you buy.
It’s crucial that you measure the amount of space available before buying one. Be sure to account for the playing space and any moving parts on the machine.
Cabinet style
Upright arcade machines are the most common gaming cabinets, but they come in different styles.
You can choose between candy, sit-down, and bartop style cabinets. Candy cabinets have a unique retro housing characterized by a smooth, glossy finish.
They became popular after Japanese arcade companies like Taito and Sega used them in the 90s. They’re an excellent choice for gamers looking for cabinets that can support horizontal and vertical games.
On the other hand, sit-down arcade cabinets allow you to play while sitting down. They have split-screening capabilities that make them ideal for cooperative gaming. The machines can also be utilized as tables and have a thick, protective cover.
Lastly, the bartop style cabinets are suitable for gamers with limited gaming space. They mimic the top half of an upright cabinet and are shorter. They come in handy for crowded areas like pubs.
Internet connectivity
Arcade machines are primarily designed for offline use, but some devices must be connected to the internet to operate.
This feature comes in handy for those who want to download other games. If buying such a machine, consider its proximity to an internet connection. You may need to invest in a signal booster or an ethernet cable to connect the arcade to the hub.
FAQ
Do modern arcade machines use coin or tokens?
If buying an arcade machine for home use, games will likely come on free play.
However, if you want to set it up for commercial purposes, the device comes with a coin mechanism, card scanner, or dollar bill acceptor installed.
Another alternative is to have the supplier add a contactless payment system, the most common payment method ideal for modern arcades.
Which essential accessories should you buy when ordering an arcade machine?
Although most arcade machines come as complete units, you might need a few accessories to make your gaming experience more comfortable.
Some machines supporting multi-play are highly upgradeable, allowing you to add some features and accessories like light guns, live game streaming, and scoreboards.
It would also help if you also had a place to sit while playing, if spending extended periods on the machine. Avid gamers can play an entire night, so adding a comfortable stool is essential.
Which is the best place to buy an arcade machine?
It’s best to buy the machine from a reputable dealer. Video arcade machines need maintenance after some time which can be expensive.
Buying from reputable dealers gives you peace of mind because you can always bring the machine for repairs and maintenance. You’re also confident that the device will take a while before breaking down.
Final verdict
Forget the notion that modern games are all you have to play. You can still buy an arcade machine and rekindle the 80s and 90s gaming memories at the comfort of your home.
Remember to factor in essential features like the type of games you plan to play, the machine’s condition (new or refurbished), price, and kind of arcade machine.
