Some people have recently gotten into them, and some people never left. Classic arcade games are timeless, not only serving as a capsule for their era but as endless entertainment. We all know modern interpretations of these games just aren’t up to par, from constant advertisements in apps to the lack of physical buttons and joysticks. Simply put, arcade games are best fit to their original medium. For those looking to rekindle this ageless hobby, there are many other enthusiasts that can provide what you need.
Starting Small
Portable gaming has been incredibly popular since the moment it was born. From Gameboy to PSP to mobile gaming, the comfort of playing anywhere, anytime appeals to a significant audience. Of course, nowadays phone games just don’t provide the same satisfaction a classic portable game system does. Button mashing and endless, uninterrupted play are things that only classic consoles can give you. Check out ways to play that fit right in your pocket, and make sure you’re searching for the games you want.
Other options are portable joysticks that plug into any television and even some laptops. These are slightly less portable as they require cables and a larger screen, but they’re still a great option and they have the bonus of providing that satisfying and reliable button-and-joystick control straight from the arcades of the ‘80s. You can find either classic versions like used Nintendo 64s and Namco games, or updated versions made for today’s systems like an Atari Flashback.
Playing in Person
Not satisfied with portable play? That’s an easy fix. Arcade popularity may not be as high as it once was, but fear not, for hobbyists and enthusiasts are doing their best to renew the experience of arcade gaming to its prime. “Barcades” have popped up all over the country on top of pure arcades, which now feature more modern games alongside their classic cabinet machines. Find an arcade near you and get to playing. Make sure you look for hidden local gems where you can be treated like family.
Aside from establishments dedicated to classic gaming, you will hopefully have noticed a rise in recent years of bars hosting one or a few arcade machines. These are usually placed as a way for the bar to make a quick penny without resorting to those noisy betting machines, but they’re a fantastic way to keep entertained and play with friends on a night out. These machines are usually stocked with hundreds of different games to play for 20p at a time, and that’s certainly worth the constant entertainment they provide.
Going Pro at Home
Are you a real classic gaming enthusiast with a bit of cash to spend? If so, you’ve most likely already thought about going all-out with your gaming. Playing on a portable pad just isn’t the same as experiencing the whole ordeal, standing at the buttons with a giant screen gleaming back at you, is it? Everyone knows you need to experience Galaga, Pac-Man, and Donkey Kong in full size and colour to appreciate the details. If this sounds like you, you should absolutely look into buying your own arcade machine.
The first thing to consider is also the most important thing, naturally: what machine? Any dedicated enthusiast will have done their due research. Maybe you’ve spent years at arcades, hopping between the different machines. Maybe one caught your eye early on and you can never become sick of it. Either way, you’ll know what game or games you’re looking for. Can’t choose? No worries! Nowadays there are cabinets with hundreds of games to scroll between, all free of charge and ad-free, as games should be. And you can choose from several sizes to have in your own home! Make sure you know what you want at every stage of the way, and spare no detail. From the choice of machine to delivery and placement in your house, take your hobby to the next level, and happy gaming!
Everyone Can Love It
There are no requirements for being a classic game enthusiast. The most important thing to remember is all of us who love these games, young or old, portable or expensive machines, appreciate a classic look, feel, and gameplay. However you play, however often, and to whatever degree, you can be part of the community. Find online or in-person communities and interact with people who have the same tastes!
With some more information on the varied ways to play, get on it! Spend a little or a lot of money, it’s up to you. None of that matters when you can play the best games of all time at the click of a button and the wiggle of a joystick.