🎮 What Is a Multicade? Everything You Need to Know

If you love retro gaming or want to create an arcade experience at home, you’ve probably heard the term “multicade.” But what exactly is a multicade, and why is it so popular among gamers? Let’s break it down.

What Is a Multicade?

A multicade is an arcade machine that comes preloaded with multiple games. Unlike traditional arcade cabinets, which usually feature a single game like Pac-Man or Donkey Kong, a multicade gives you access to dozens or even hundreds of games in one machine.

Key features:

  • Multiple games on one machine

  • Often includes classics from the 80s and 90s

  • Supports single or multiplayer gameplay

  • Compact and convenient compared to owning multiple cabinets

Why Multicades Are Popular

  1. Variety in One Machine
    Imagine playing Street Fighter, Galaga, Pac-Man, and Mortal Kombat all from the same arcade cabinet. That’s the appeal of a multicade—one machine, endless fun.

  2. Space-Saving
    Instead of having multiple single-game cabinets taking up space, a multicade consolidates all your favorite games into one unit, making it ideal for home use.

  3. Great for Parties
    Many multicades support multiple players, so friends and family can compete or play together.

  4. Ease of Setup
    Most multicades come pre-assembled or easy to assemble, so you can start gaming immediately.

  5. Affordable Retro Gaming
    Buying a multicade can be cheaper than collecting individual cabinets, especially if you want dozens of games.

Types of Multicades

  • Tabletop/Countertop Multicades: Small, compact machines perfect for desks or small rooms.

  • Full-Size Upright Multicades: Standard arcade cabinets that give the authentic arcade feel.

  • Multiplayer Party Multicades: Designed for 2–4 players, great for social gaming.

Recommended Multicade Machines

Are Multicades Worth It?

Yes, if you want:

  • Variety without buying multiple single-game cabinets

  • Space-efficient arcade fun

  • A ready-to-play setup for home or parties

Maybe not, if you want:

  • The authentic experience of a single classic cabinet

  • Rare or licensed games that may not be included

Conclusion

A multicade is the perfect solution for modern retro gamers, combining variety, convenience, and nostalgia in a single arcade machine. Whether you’re a casual gamer, a party host, or a collector looking to save space, a multicade can bring the arcade experience right into your home.

For more options, you can check out:

🎮 Multicade vs Single-Game Arcade Cabinets: Which Is Right for Your Home?

Bringing an arcade into your home is a dream for many gamers. But when it comes to choosing the right machine, you’re faced with a key question: should you get a multicade or a single-game arcade cabinet? Let’s break it down.

What Is a Multicade?

A multicade is an arcade machine that comes preloaded with dozens to hundreds of games. It allows you to play a variety of classic titles, from Pac-Man to Street Fighter, all on one cabinet.

Pros:

  • Huge game library

  • Space-saving compared to multiple single-game cabinets

  • Often supports multiplayer

  • Easy setup

Cons:

  • Emulation may not be perfect for some games

  • Limited ability to add new or rare games

Examples:

What Is a Single-Game Arcade Cabinet?

A single-game cabinet is dedicated to one classic arcade game, such as Donkey Kong, Ms. Pac-Man, or Mortal Kombat. These are ideal for collectors and retro enthusiasts seeking authenticity.

Pros:

  • True arcade experience

  • Accurate controls and original artwork

  • Perfect for collecting specific games

Cons:

  • Only one game per cabinet

  • Multiple cabinets needed for variety

  • Can be expensive if collecting many titles

Examples:

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature Multicade Single-Game Cabinet
Games 50–500+ 1
Space Moderate Small per cabinet, more if collecting
Price $500–$3,000 $300–$2,000+
Setup Easy, plug-and-play Easy, but one game only
Customization Limited Can add custom artwork or mods
Best For Casual gaming, parties, families Collectors, enthusiasts, retro purists

Who Should Choose a Multicade?

  • Casual gamers who want variety in one machine

  • Families looking for party or multiplayer fun

  • People with limited space but many game preferences

Who Should Choose a Single-Game Cabinet?

  • Hardcore retro collectors or enthusiasts

  • Players who want the exact arcade experience

  • Fans of specific classic games

Hybrid Approach

Some gamers combine both:

  • One multicade for variety and parties

  • One or two single-game cabinets for favorite classics

This offers the best of both worlds: convenience and authenticity.

Conclusion

Choosing between a multicade and a single-game cabinet depends on your budget, space, and gaming style:

  • Multicade: Ideal for variety, family fun, and space-saving

  • Single-game cabinet: Best for collectors and retro purists

Both bring hours of arcade fun into your home, so the right choice comes down to whether you want variety or authenticity.

For more options, check out:

💰 DIY vs Buying: Which Arcade Machine Option Gives the Best Value?

If you’re looking to bring an arcade into your home, one big question is cost. Should you build your own arcade machine or buy a pre-made one? And how does this differ between multicades and single-game cabinets? Let’s break it down.

1️⃣ DIY Arcade Machines

Building your own arcade machine can be rewarding and customizable, but it requires time and some technical skills.

Estimated Costs:

Component DIY Cost Estimate
Cabinet (wood/MDF) $100–$300
Display (LCD/LED) $100–$200
Controls (joystick, buttons, trackball) $370–$500
Game Hardware (Raspberry Pi, Mini PC, emulators) $50–$200
Sound & Extras (speakers, marquee, decals) $100–$150
Total DIY Cost $720–$1,350

Pros of DIY:

  • Full customization of design, games, and controls

  • Often cheaper than buying high-end machines

  • Fun DIY project for enthusiasts

Cons of DIY:

  • Time-consuming

  • Requires technical skill

  • May lack the polished finish of professional machines

2️⃣ Buying a Pre-Made Arcade Machine

Buying a pre-built arcade machine is fast, convenient, and ready to play, but comes with a wider price range.

Estimated Costs:

Type Price Range
Mini / Tabletop Arcade Machine $200–$500
Full-Size Single-Game Cabinet $300–$2,000
Full-Size Multicade Machine $500–$3,000+
Premium / Custom Cabinets $2,000–$5,000+

Pros of Buying:

  • Ready-to-play with minimal setup

  • Professional build quality

  • Often includes multiple games (for multicades)

Cons of Buying:

  • Higher upfront cost for high-end machines

  • Limited customization options

Where to Buy:

3️⃣ Multicade vs Single-Game Cabinet Costs

Feature Multicade DIY Multicade Buy Single-Game DIY Single-Game Buy
Cost Range $720–$1,350 $500–$3,000+ $500–$1,200 $300–$2,000+
Game Variety 50–500+ 50–500+ 1 1
Customization High Low High Low
Time to Setup 10–30 hours Plug-and-play 10–30 hours Plug-and-play

Key Takeaways:

  • DIY is often cheaper for single-game or small multicades, especially if you want customization.

  • Buying is better for those who value convenience and professional finishes.

  • Multicades offer more games per dollar, while single-game cabinets shine for authenticity.

4️⃣ Hybrid Approach

Many gamers combine both:

  • DIY a custom multicade for variety and cost savings

  • Buy a single-game cabinet for their favorite classics

This balances customization, variety, and authenticity.

💡 Conclusion

  • DIY: Best for hands-on enthusiasts, custom designs, and potential savings.

  • Buying: Best for convenience, professional quality, and instant play.

  • Multicades: Great for variety and families.

  • Single-Game Cabinets: Perfect for collectors and retro purists.

No matter which route you choose, both options can bring the arcade experience into your home, whether you’re looking to save money, collect classics, or host fun game nights.