Arcade1Up’s line of at-home arcade cabinets has been a hit since they were first released, and it’s not hard to see why.
Whether you’re a ’80s kid who grew up playing classics like Pac-Man and Galaga or a more modern gamer who wants to relive classics like Street Fighter II, there’s an Arcade1Up machine for you.
We’ve put together an Arcade1Up review roundup, highlighting some of the best (and worst) aspects of these cabinets.
So whether you’re looking to buy one for yourself or as a gift, read on to find out everything you need to know about Arcade1Up’s classic cabinets.
What Is Arcade1Up?
Arcade1Up is a company that makes at-home arcade cabinets. The cabinets are three-quarter scale replicas of classic arcade machines, and they come with either one or two games.
The cabinets also have working coin doors, meaning you can put quarters in and play just like you would at an arcade (though Arcade1Up also sells cabinets that don’t have coin doors).
The company has released several different cabinets, each with its own set of games. For example, the Pac-Man cabinet comes with Pac-Man, Ms. Pac-Man, Galaga, Dig Dug, and Rally-X.
The Street Fighter II cabinet, on the other hand, comes with Street Fighter II: Champion Edition, Super Street Fighter II: The New Challengers, and Street Fighter II: Turbo.
There are also cabinets that come with four games, like the Golden Tee cabinet, which comes with Golden Tee, PGA Tour, Golden Tee Fore!, and Golden Tee 3D.
Arcade1Up also makes a line of mini cabinets that are about half the size of the full-size cabinets.
These are perfect for smaller spaces or for taking to a friend’s house. The mini cabinets come with the same games as the full-size cabinets, just in a smaller package.
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How Much Do Arcade1Up Cabinets Cost?
The price of an Arcade1Up cabinet depends on the model you choose. The classic cabinets start at $349, while the deluxe models start at $499. The mini cabinets start at $199.
What Games Are Included?
The games that are included in an Arcade1Up cabinet depend on the model you choose.
As we mentioned, the Pac-Man cabinet comes with Pac-Man, Ms. Pac-Man, Galaga, Dig Dug, and Rally-X.
The Street Fighter II cabinet comes with Street Fighter II: Champion Edition, Super Street Fighter II: The New Challengers, and Street Fighter II: Turbo.
The Golden Tee cabinet comes with Golden Tee, PGA Tour, Golden Tee Fore!, and Golden Tee 3D.
All of the cabinets come with classic games, so you’re sure to find something you like regardless of which model you choose.
View our cabinets reviews right here!
What Are the Cabinet Dimensions?
The dimensions of an Arcade1Up cabinet depend on the model you choose. The classic cabinets are about 43 inches tall, 19 inches wide, and 28 inches deep.
The deluxe cabinets are about 45 inches tall, 21 inches wide, and 30 inches deep. The mini cabinets are about 21 inches tall, 10 inches wide, and 14 inches deep.
How Much Weight Can the Cabinets Hold?
The classic cabinets can hold up to 250 pounds, while the deluxe cabinets can hold up to 275 pounds. The mini cabinets can hold up to 125 pounds.
Are the Cabinets Easy to Assemble?
Yes, the cabinets are easy to assemble. The cabinets come with easy-to-follow instructions, and they can be assembled in about an hour.
Do the Cabinets Come with a Warranty?
Yes, the cabinets come with a one-year warranty.
Should You Buy an Arcade1Up Cabinet?
If you’re looking for a classic arcade experience, then yes, you should buy an Arcade1Up cabinet.
The cabinets are well-made, they’re easy to assemble, and they come with a one-year warranty. The only downside is that the cabinets are a bit pricey.
But if you’re willing to spend the money, then an Arcade1Up cabinet is a great way to bring the classic arcade experience into your home.
Watch Owning Real Arcade Cabinets VS Owning Arcade1Up Cabinets | Pros & Cons :
Q & A Arcade : you ask, we answer!
1. Which arcade does CDawgVA frequently visit, and what makes it unique?
CDawgVA frequently visits arcades in Tokyo, particularly Taito Hey in Akihabara. Taito Hey stands out for its multiple floors dedicated to a variety of games, including rhythm and fighting games, along with various retro machines. This arcade is notable for its vibrant atmosphere and extensive selection, making it a popular destination for gaming enthusiasts worldwide. Reference: Taito Hey Akihabara on TripAdvisor
2. Can you list some arcade games that utilize 8 buttons and explain their gameplay mechanics?
Some games that utilize 8 buttons include:
Tekken Tag Tournament 2: This game features complex combo systems that require players to master the timing and coordination of various button presses. Reference: Tekken Wiki
Virtua Fighter 5: Known for its technical gameplay mechanics, Virtua Fighter 5 challenges players to learn intricate fighting techniques. Reference: Virtua Fighter Wiki
Sound Voltex: A rhythm game that utilizes a combination of button presses and a turntable for gameplay, making it popular among rhythm game enthusiasts. Reference: Sound Voltex Wiki
These games illustrate how an 8-button layout enhances gameplay depth, encouraging strategic planning and quick reflexes.
3. Where are the best places to purchase arcade machines in Canada, and what should buyers consider?
Notable Canadian retailers for arcade machines include:
- Gameroom Solutions (Toronto): Specializes in arcade games and accessories. Website
- Arcade Classics (Vancouver): Retailer of both new and refurbished arcade machines. Website
- Pinball and More (Montreal): Offers a wide selection of arcade and pinball machines. Website
When considering a purchase, buyers should examine factors such as machine quality, warranty options, player appeal, and available maintenance services. Additionally, evaluate the space you have available and potential electrical requirements for setting up arcade systems.
4. What were some of the most popular arcade games in the 1970s, and why did they gain popularity?
The 1970s marked a pivotal shift in the video gaming landscape, with several games rising to prominence:
- Pong (1972): One of the first video games to gain widespread popularity, pioneering the arcade format. Reference: “What Was the First Video Game?” Popup Magazine
- Space Invaders (1978): This game created a new genre of shooting games and was one of the first to feature a scoring system, leading to competitive play. Reference: “The History of Video Games: Space Invaders” The Guardian
- Breakout (1976): This introduced paddle-based gameplay that influenced many subsequent games. Reference: “Breakout History” How Stuff Works
The popularity of these games stemmed from their innovative gameplay mechanics and the increasing social culture surrounding arcade gaming, transforming video games into a communal activity.
5. Is Arcade Fire still an active band today, and what are their recent activities?
Arcade Fire remains an active band, although their output has slowed since their early prominence. Their latest album, “WE,” was released in May 2022, and they have conducted limited tours since then. They continue to make occasional appearances at festivals. Reference: Pitchfork’s review of “WE”
6. In which arcade did Nessa work, and what was her role there?
Nessa worked at “Pixel Paradise,” a local arcade known for its welcoming community and retro game selection. Her role as an arcade attendant involved managing the daily operations, providing customer service, and organizing events such as game nights and tournaments. Nessa’s passion for gaming and friendly demeanor made her a beloved figure among patrons, influencing many to participate in the arcade’s vibrant community. Her engagement not only enhanced the player’s experience but also fostered a sense of belonging within the arcade setting.
7. What arcade games can be found at Chuck E. Cheese, and how do they cater to different age groups?
Chuck E. Cheese features a diverse range of arcade games designed to entertain various age groups:
- Skill-based Games: Titles like “Skee-Ball” and “Whack-a-Mole” attract younger kids with their straightforward mechanics, nurturing hand-eye coordination and quick reflexes.
- Ticket Redemption Games: Games such as “Coin Pusher” and “Deal or No Deal” appeal to older kids and family members, offering the opportunity to win tickets redeemable for prizes. This encourages friendly competition while teaching valuable lessons in decision-making.
- Video Games: Popular arcade hits like “Dance Dance Revolution” and “Mario Kart Arcade GP” provide interactive experiences for tweens and teens, further expanding the appeal across age groups.
Chuck E. Cheese ensures that their arcade selection caters to all ages, creating an inclusive, family-friendly atmosphere where everyone can enjoy the fun.
8. Which arcade games were iconic in the 1980s, and how did they influence the gaming industry?
The 1980s was a thriving era for arcade gaming, with several titles leaving a lasting impact on the industry:
- Defender (1981): Known for its high-speed arcade action and strategic gameplay, Defender set the foundation for future shoot ’em up titles by introducing the concept of multiple objectives, enhancing player engagement.
- Pac-Man (1980): Introduced a unique maze chase mechanic and character-driven design. Reference: History of Pac-Man by the Smithsonian
- Donkey Kong (1981): Was one of the first platform games to incorporate narrative, featuring Mario as the protagonist. Reference: “How Donkey Kong Changed Everything” by IGN
- Street Fighter II (1991): Not specifically the ’80s but pivotal in shaping the fighting game genre. Reference: “The Birth of Street Fighter II” on Polygon
These games not only shaped the arcade culture of the 1980s but also had profound influences on game design and development, setting standards that are still felt in the gaming industry today.
