A arcade machine is a standalone video game machine designed for use in a public place. You play while standing, facing a screen, with one or more joysticks and buttons, after slipping a piece into the coin slot.
The entire system is built into a single unit: screen, control panel, circuit board, and speakers. Titles such as Pac-Man, Space Invaders Where Donkey Kong have made these machines an icon of video game culture.
The History of Arcade Machines: From Atari to the Golden Age
Contrary to popular belief, Atari did not invent arcade machines. The first commercial video game arcade machine, Computer Space, coming out on 1971 at Nutting Associates. Atari was founded a little later, on June 27, 1972by Nolan Bushnell and Ted Dabney.
That same year, Atari launches Pong, a black-and-white tennis game that becomes the first major commercial success in the industry. He was the one who really helped arcades take off with the general public.
The real one golden age reaches the end of the the 1970s and during the the 1980s. Several titles define this generation:
- Space Invaders (Taito, 1978), which sets off a global phenomenon; ;
- Pac-Man (1980), arguably the most recognizable character in video games; ;
- Donkey Kong (1981), a pioneer of platform games.
Sega is also gaining popularity in arcades across the 1980s and 1990s, featuring powerful machines and fighting games such as Mortal Kombat. At that time, these markers could be found in the arcades, them shopping centers and some bars.
Since then, the machines have evolved significantly: the display, controls, and internal system have been updated over the years. These multiplatform games These early classics still hold a special place in gamers' hearts today.
Types of Arcade Machines
There are several types of arcade cabinets, depending on their intended use and the available space.
- The Vertical Post (or “upright”): the classic model, adult-sized, with the screen at the top and the control panel on the front. This is the most common design in arcades.
- The Cocktail Station : The machine is set up horizontally, with the built-in screen behind a glass panel. Players sit on either side. Ideal for playing while seated or for playing long, back-to-back games.
- The Dedicated Terminal : designed for a single game, often with controls and a design tailored to that specific title.
- The Multi-Game Kiosk : packs dozens or hundreds of arcade games onto a single machine. More flexible, often available new between 400 and 1,500 euros depending on the screen size and quality. Used models start at 100 to 200 euros for older models.
The Pros and Cons of Arcade Games
The main advantage of a arcade machine, is to bring people together. Whether in a bar, an arcade, or even at the office, it fosters connections during breaks: we challenge each other, share a leaderboard, and play again right away. This enjoyment also comes from the unique experiences from the joystick and physical buttons, which offer a crisp, immediate response.
Here are the main benefits:
- Easy to Use : You only need a few commands to play—no manual required.
- Large screen and it's powerful enough to create a real atmosphere.
- Friendliness : perfect for friends, coworkers, or family, just like the Co-op games on Nintendo Switch.
- Nostalgia Effect : It features the great classics of the '80s.
As for the downsides, let's be honest. An arcade machine is still a imposing piece of furniture which takes up a lot of space, especially for a full-size vertical model. Its price It can also rise quickly, depending on the model and the quality of the screen.
Finally, since you play standing up on most models, a long session can strain your back. Take regular breaks, or choose a sit-down machine if you're playing multiple games in a row.
Explanatory video in French by Alucare, ideal complement to the page. View video (you can use YouTube's automatic translation)
If you're looking for other ways to play without breaking the bank, check out the Free Games on PS5 or to PC strategy games to vary the pleasures.
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