A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Bartop Arcade Machine

For those who are nostalgic for the golden age of arcade games, bartop arcade machines are the perfect way to relive the glory days. A bartop arcade machine is a smaller, tabletop version of the classic arcade cabinets that dominated game rooms in the 80s and 90s. These mini-arcades are becoming increasingly popular as people look for ways to bring the excitement of old-school gaming into their homes. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at bartop arcade machines and why they're worth considering for any retro gaming enthusiast.

History of Arcade Games

Arcade games have been around since the 1970s and have undergone a significant evolution over the years. The golden age of arcade games was in the late 70s and early 80s, where games like Space Invaders, Pac-Man, and Donkey Kong took the world by storm. These classic games were played on full-sized arcade cabinets, which often featured large displays, colorful graphics, and exciting sound effects. With the advent of home gaming systems, the popularity of arcade games declined, but they never lost their charm. Today, the retro gaming community is experiencing a resurgence, and bartop arcade machines are leading the charge.

What is a Bartop Arcade Machine?

A bartop arcade machine is a compact, tabletop arcade machine that typically stands at about two feet tall. These mini-arcades come pre-installed with multiple games, including classic titles like Galaga, Pac-Man, and Space Invaders. They are designed to look and feel like the classic arcade cabinets of the 80s and 90s, complete with joysticks, buttons, and graphics that evoke the nostalgia of those bygone days.

Bartop arcade machines are designed to be compact, so they can be placed on a table or countertop, saving space in your home. They are also a great option for those who don't have the space for a full-sized arcade cabinet. Bartop arcade machines are also relatively affordable, making them accessible to a wider audience. With a bartop arcade machine, you can bring the excitement of classic arcade games into your home, and relive the nostalgia of the golden age of gaming.

Building Your Own Bartop Arcade Machine

For those who want to take their love of retro gaming to the next level, building your own bartop arcade machine can be a fun and rewarding project. With a bartop arcade kit, you can build your own arcade machine from scratch, tailoring it to your exact specifications. To build your own bartop arcade machine, you'll need a cabinet, hardware, software, controls, and artwork.

The first step is to choose the right cabinet. You can use a pre-made cabinet or build your own using wood or MDF. Once you have your cabinet, you'll need to install the hardware, which includes the main board, power supply, and speakers. The software is the next step, and you'll need to choose an operating system and install the games you want to play.

Adding the controls and artwork is the final step in building your own bartop arcade machine. You'll need to choose joysticks, buttons, and graphics that match the look and feel of your machine. With the right tools and some patience, you can create a bartop arcade machine that is uniquely your own.

Popular Games to Play on Your Bartop Arcade Machine

With a bartop arcade machine, you'll have access to a wide variety of classic arcade games. Some of the most popular games include classic titles like Galaga, Pac-Man, and Space Invaders. Fighting games like Mortal Kombat and Street Fighter are also popular choices. Puzzle games like Tetris and Dr. Mario are a great way