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Look, I'm fully aware that I'm a terrible influence on retro players during events like Black Friday. I've probably unintentionally upset many of the people you live with who aren't that into old games, especially when I get carried away with recommendations. So, rather than tell you to replace your fridge with a Mortal Kombat this year, I've put together an arcade machine setup in my living room with options ranging from cheap to steep.
If, like me, you've been picking up the best retro consoles for years and you're ready for a new collecting adventure, arcade machines will be on your mind. The only issue is that even all-in-one tabletop cabinets are expensive, not to mention that the larger replicas will dominate your space. That won't be an issue with enthusiasts with dedicated game rooms, but I think everyone should be able to experience the joy of using joysticks and buttons at home. regardless of space and budget.
Neo Geo Mini
You could argue that the Neo Geo Mini is more of a small console than an arcade machine, but I'd firmly say it's both. I mean, you're getting a built-in 3.5-inch LCD screen, a joystick, and buttons, and that's impressive for a tiny cabinet that's around $50.
Sure, the Neo Geo Mini doesn't use switches for its buttons or stick, so it isn't quite as authentic. I still stand by it being a worthwhile addition to an arcade setup at its price range, though, and nothing is stopping you from hooking it up to a bigger screen and using a USB arcade stick (I'd consider 8Bitdo's for under $80).
There are plenty of ways to play some of SNK's classic romps and throwdowns, but the Neo Geo Mini does come with 40 built in, including King of Fighters, Metal Slug, and Fatal Fury Special. So, it's a pretty affordable, compact way to add a chunk of arcade games to a setup, and it does look fairly like an old MVS cabinet.
Sega Astro City Mini
The Sega Astro City Mini is another space-saving arcade machine, as the name suggests, but it's surprisingly authentic. The tiny cabinet is virtually a compact remake of a real deal from 1993, and it includes controls that feel remarkably accurate thanks to its Sanwa Denshi switches. It even has the same green illuminated strip at the top for good measure, but naturally uses a 3.6-inch LCD instead of a CRT.
Yes, its mini nature means it's a little cramped, but the Astro City's excellent controls and sharp display will distract you from that fact. Plus, just like its Neo Geo counterpart, it has HDMI output, so using it as a console is on the cards. Annoyingly, it's fussy with USB controllers, but you can get around its restricted compatibility using a Mayflash Magic-NS Adapter. It's around $20, but it will let you use most gamepads with various other devices, too.
I should point out that there are two versions of the Sega Astro City Mini, and both are technically discontinued. The one I've got features 37 games across the publisher's arcade and console catalogue, covering everything from Golden Axe to Sonic the Hedgehog. However, there is also an Astro City Mini V model that is dedicated to vertical shooters, and it's the one you're more likely to find for a reasonable price.
Arcade Classics Centipede
In terms of size, the Basic Fun's Arcade Classics cabinets are larger than the above minis, and the Centipede model feels firmly like a fully fledged machine. For starters, it trades plastic for MDF wood and boasts a much larger 8-inch display. The secret sauce here, though, is undeniably the specialised controls that include a trackball specifically for Atari classics.
Typically, you'll see this cabinet for under $200 with a discount, and while it is slightly niche, given that it only boasts five games, you're getting authentic rollerball realness with this machine. Just like many models of its kind, it skips on comforts like USB controller support, HDMI output, but puts extra focus on presenting vibrant artwork that helps it double up as decor.
Simply put, the Arcade Classics Centipede is going to look great as part of a collection and makes for a great way to play a bunch of Atari greats. It's perhaps one of think about as you expand your setup, but there aren't many options out there that give you access to an authentic feeling track ball.
Quarter Arcades Bubble Bobble
You could pretty much create a whole tiny amusement centre using Numbskull's Quarter Arcade machines. That's exactly what I could do if I could afford more than one, but even though they're pricey for their size, they look ridiculously authentic and are surprisingly playable.
The Quarter Arcades Bubble Bobble machine specifically lives on my desk, and it really is one of the coolest-looking gadgets in my office. While some mini cabinets compress their form and skimp on details, this option looks almost exactly like Taito's full-sized version, but smaller. It even includes a glowing marquee that really helps sell the "Honey, I shrunk the arcade cabinet" vibes Numbskull is going for.
I'm not saying you could properly "get gud" at Bubble Bobble using the Quarter Arcades, but it really is a treat to play. You're getting two sets of tiny arcade controls that are somehow still tactile, and its screen and speakers are far nicer than they have any right to be. Plus, it's got a built-in USB-C rechargeable battery, which means you can pop it anywhere in the house without having to wrestle with wires.
Evercade Alpha
I fully believe the Evercade Alpha has changed the at-home arcade scene forever, as it uses Blaze's ecosystem of cartridges. That means it can run the exact same collection as affordable retro handhelds like the Super Pocket, all while boasting excellent competitive-grade controls, a vibrant 8-inch display, and plenty of visual flair.
In terms of value, the Evercade Alpha is probably the bartop arcade machine you should buy first. It's got access to 500 classics across multiple cartridges and a bunch of built-in games from specific publishers like Capcom and Taito. The former model actually takes on the look of a Street Fighter 2 cabinet, and as someone who's restored a very similar original model, its illuminated marquee and bezel art really hit the spot.
You're getting a lot of appreciated extras with the Alpha, too, like USB controller support, USB-C power for convenience, and Wi-Fi for updates. All of those perks help it serve as both an attractive statement piece and a platform you can continue to play different capers on beyond a set list of arcade romps, and it can even run PS1 games like Tomb Raider thanks to new giga carts.
Arcade1Up Mortal Kombat II Deluxe Arcade Machine
Okay, I know most of you aren't going to pick up a five-foot Mortal Kombat II arcade replica, but Arcade1Up's full-fat machine is fantastic. It's probably the closest thing you can readily buy today to an OG cabinet, complete with full-size mechanical multiplayer controls, a 17-inch LCD screen, and excellent detailing.
Mortal Kombat II isn't the only Arcade1Up flavor, but most models are fairly pricey. That's perhaps understandable given their all-wood construction and the fact that it's housing a screen, speakers, and a system with 14 built-in games, and you're really paying for the sheer size and authentic touches here.
Do I wish it had access to more games for the price? Absolutely, but by dedicating itself to largely one classic per machine, it embodies the same feel that an authentic cabinet would provide. Everything from its proper arcade controls and light-up marquee to its licensed artwork almost passes for the real McCoy, and it's only when you see that it's rocking a modern screen that you realize it's not a '90s relic.
Looking for more ways to play classic capers? Take a peek at the best retro handhelds for on-the-go options and emulators. If you're already using Valve's portable, swing by Black Friday Steam Deck deals for offers on handhelds, accessories, and more.
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