I've always been fascinated by arcade machines. They evoke a sense of nostalgia while providing endless entertainment. But, if you're thinking about getting one for your home, space becomes a concern. Thankfully, many manufacturers have recognized this and designed smaller, more compact models specifically for home use. Let's dive into a few of my favorites that fit perfectly into small spaces.
First, there's the Home-friendly arcade machines like the Arcade1Up series. These machines are about 4 feet tall, which is significantly smaller than the traditional 6 to 7-foot machines you'd see in public arcades. For instance, the Pac-Man model only weighs around 58 pounds, making it easy to move around if needed. Despite their size, these machines still offer full-sized controls, providing an authentic arcade experience.
Another compact option is the iiRcade machine. This one allows you to download games directly into the machine, so you don't need multiple cabinets taking up space. The iiRcade measures only 32 inches in height if you opt for the bartop version. This little powerhouse has a 19-inch screen, which is more than sufficient for most retro games. And it connects via Wi-Fi, making it incredibly versatile without the typical bulkiness.
If you love pinball but think there's no way you could fit one in your home, think again. The AtGames Legends Pinball machine is a digital pinball machine with a relatively compact size, with dimensions of around 29 inches in width and 59 inches in length. It features a 32-inch playfield and a 15.6-inch backglass LCD. With over 100 games preloaded and additional downloadable content available, it's an incredible option for pinball fans.
Cost is another important factor when considering arcade machines for home use. While full-sized professional arcade machines can easily cost upwards of $3,000, companies like My Arcade offer affordable alternatives. Their Retro Champ Console, which is a hybrid of a handheld and a desktop arcade, costs under $100. It's perfect for playing NES and Famicom cartridges, and it's small enough to tuck away when not in use.
Then there's the Neo Geo Mini, a scaled-down version of the classic arcade console. It stands just 6 inches tall but includes 40 classic SNK games. The built-in 3.5-inch screen is surprisingly clear and bright. For those who crave the arcade feel but lack the space, this mini console is a stellar choice. Plus, you can always connect it to a larger TV for a more immersive experience.
Another consideration for tight spaces is the countertop arcade machine. These mini arcades sit on any flat surface and are usually no taller than 18 inches. Machines like the New Wave Toys' Replicade series measure around 12 inches in height but maintain a high level of detail and functionality. They mimic the look and feel of their full-sized counterparts. The Space Invaders model, for example, includes a light-up marquee and a fully functional coin slot, albeit on a smaller scale.
For those living in even tighter quarters, consider arcade gaming tables like the Cades arcade table. Unlike traditional upright cabinets, these tables double as functional furniture. With dimensions typically around 24 by 39 inches, they can fit in the center of a room without crowding it. And because they're tables, they can also serve as a spot for your coffee or books when not in use.
You might wonder if these smaller machines sacrifice on quality or gameplay. Surprisingly, they don't. For instance, the Sega Astro City Mini, which is an 11.5-inch tall arcade machine, includes 37 classic Sega games. It even features a joystick and buttons that replicate the original arcade controls. According to Sega, the machine includes true-to-original emulation, ensuring that the gameplay and sound are just as you remember them from the 80s and 90s.
When space is at a premium, multi-game cabinets offer the best bang for your buck. The Legends Ultimate arcade machine by AtGames, for example, stands just over 5 feet tall, but it includes a whopping 300 games. It has both a joystick and trackball controls, allowing for a variety of game styles. Plus, it features Wi-Fi connectivity for online leaderboards and downloadable content, making it highly versatile without hogging all your floor space.
Another unique solution is virtual-reality-based arcade gaming. While not an arcade cabinet in the traditional sense, VR systems like the Oculus Quest 2 offer an arcade experience without any physical space requirements. The Quest 2 can run various arcade-style games, and it measures just 191.5 x 102 x 142.5 mm, fitting perfectly in any small storage space when not in use. While the initial investment is around $299, it's less costly than many multi-game arcade machines and takes up much less room.
I personally love the concept of 'flat-packed' arcade cabinets, which are delivered in pieces that you assemble at home. The Nanocade is one example; it comes with all the parts needed to turn a spare monitor into a compact arcade machine. When fully assembled, it stands about 11 inches tall. Because it uses parts you might already have, the overall cost can be quite low, usually under $200.
To sum it up, there are plenty of arcade machines designed specifically for small spaces. From the compact Arcade1Up series to tabletop and countertop machines, and from digital pinball to multi-game cabinets, there's something for every enthusiast. Whether you're tight on space or budget, these options offer the nostalgia and excitement of arcade gaming without taking over your living area.