Classic arcade machines are still the business

Many South African companies are selling classic arcade machines, making it possible for grown men to once again enjoy Pac-Man, Space Invaders, and Donkey Kong.

Many websites allow people to play classic arcade games for free in their browser, but without a joystick the experience is just not the same.

To make the experience more authentic you can purchase an X-Arcade joystick, which can be used with a computer or gaming console.

You can even build your own PC-based arcade machine using an X-Arcade joystick, software like Maximus Arcade, and an emulator.

However, if you want to get a truly authentic experience there is no better option than purchasing a video arcade machine.

Arcade Blaster machines

Buying an arcade machine in South Africa

There are a few places which sell classic video arcade machines in South Africa, including Arcade Blaster, Eurasian Entertainment, and Game Over.

I selected Arcade Blaster because of price and time to delivery, and I was not disappointed. The service was excellent, and the newly built arcade machine was delivered within a week.

There are various game collection options, and I selected the 412-in-1 vertical screen option. It is the selection with all the classics: Pac-Man, Frogger, Galaga, Donkey Kong, Pinball Action, Dig Dug, and 1942.

I further selected the Bar Top Unit instead of a full arcade cabinet – it is cheaper and easier to move around.

Arcade Blaster bar top arcade machine

The classic arcade machine experience

Switching the arcade machine on and playing classic arcade games – ones I last played as a young teenager – was great.

There is something special about the simple graphics and elementary sounds of classic arcade games.

To switch between games is very easy, and start-up times are quick. You can select to use 50c coins to play games, or switch on free play.

When I ordered the machine I was concerned that the 19-inch screen would be too small, but it is just fine. The screen gives an authentic feel to the experience, and it does not feel small when playing classic games.

After spending a bit of time with my new arcade machine I realised three things:

The classic arcade games are as much fun now as they were when I was 12.
I am just as useless at these arcade games now as when I was as a kid. They are damn hard.
If I saved all the 20c coins I blew on arcade games and invested that money, I would not have to work like a slave now.

The arcade machine is currently sitting on our dining room table, and is used every day. The wife has already asked where it will be moved to – little does she know it is now a permanent feature!

Arcade games image courtesy of Game Over

Article courtesy of MyBroadband