Classic Arcade Machines Worth Taking for Your Basement
Going to the arcade in the 80s and 90s was a formative experience for kids, teenagers, and even adults. Most games were presented in the same type of cabinet, with three to six buttons to smash with friends while kicking butt, shooting bad guys, jumping obstacles, or racing for your coins.
However, during the arcades' golden age, game developers would go out of their way to create unique arcade cabinets that were designed to play only one game. These looked different in every way, and would draw your attention instantly, even when the game you were going to play wasn't actually that good.
Every kid thought about getting one of these cabinets to play at home whenever they wanted, but they couldn't fulfill their dreams until they got at least a paycheck. So, to fuel your nostalgia, here are some classic arcade machines that were and still are worth taking for your basement.
Reactor
Some arcade machines were pretty straightforward, and you only had to press one button to play. It didn't mean it was easy, though.
Pole Position
Racing games came in all shapes and sizes, and we wanted them all.
Pac-Man Cocktail Table
Some of the most popular video games had a cocktail table version for the comfort of your own home.
Mario Bros.
The classic of classics wasn't just a great game but also had great cabinet art to show off.
Manx TT Superbike
Many racing games allowed you to step into a car or a bike to have a more immersive full-body experience.
Ice Cold Beer
Among the truly unique machines, this one combines digital and analog technology like no other.
Centipede
Another classic with simple controls that was a must for every arcade basement.
Astro City
These sitting arcade machines were a trap that could consume all of your time.
Top Gun Challenge
Why play real darts when you could play Top Gun Challenge?
Starship 1
Atari's Starship 1 was going to be featured in The Shining (1980) but they finally cut that scene.
Pop'n Music
Rhythm games also come in all shapes and sizes, and there aren't two alike. So you probably wanted to add a couple of these machines to your imaginary collection.
Mappy
An arcade classic that you could later play on your home console.
WEC LeMans 24
While most racing games had seats, you could run Le Mans standing.
Asteroids
While extremely popular, the original Asteroids cabinet wasn't as common as the many copies and hacks that popped up everywhere.
Vs. System
Imagine the possibilities for a little kid.
Time Traveler
This game wasn't that great, but its “holographic” technology would gather people around it every single day.
Space Invaders
Another classic with simple controls and high chances of addiction.
Revolution X
Revolution X was a magnet. Whenever you entered an arcade, you were drawn by it.
Terminator Salvation
One of the best arcade machines from the modern era.
Xbox's Halo
Not exactly an arcade machine, but we know you wanted to take it home nonetheless.
