One of the biggest appeals of a Multicade arcade machine is the ability to enjoy hundreds, sometimes even thousands, of classic arcade titles—all in one cabinet. Unlike traditional arcade machines that are locked to a single game, a multicade gives you flexibility and variety. But how do you actually switch between games? Let’s break it down.
1. The Multicade Menu System
Most multicades use a built-in menu interface. When you power on the machine, you’ll see a list of games to scroll through. From there, you can:
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Use the joystick or buttons to navigate.
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Highlight the game you want.
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Press the start button to launch it.
Switching back is usually as simple as pressing a designated exit button or a button combo (for example, Player 1 Start + Player 2 Start), which returns you to the main game list.
2. Using a Trackball or Spinner (if available)
Some multicades come with extra control options like a trackball or spinner. These controls not only work for specific games (like Centipede or Arkanoid) but can also help navigate through the game list quickly.
3. Saving High Scores and Progress
Modern multicades often allow you to save high scores or even pause games. When you switch games, your progress is stored, letting you return later without losing your records.
4. Changing Games on Different Multicade Types
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60-in-1 Multicades: Simple scrolling list with a few dozen classics like Pac-Man, Galaga, and Donkey Kong. Easy and straightforward.
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1000+ Game Multicades (with emulation software): Larger libraries may allow search functions, filters, or alphabetical sorting for quicker navigation.
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High-end multicades (like those running on PC-based systems): May have fancier menus, customizable themes, and the ability to add or remove games.
5. Tips for Smooth Game Switching
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Learn your button combos: Each multicade has shortcuts for exiting or pausing.
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Use filters: If your multicade has hundreds of games, use category filters (shooters, fighters, classics) to save time.
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Customize your favorites list: Many systems let you “star” or mark favorite games for quick access.
Final Thoughts
Switching games on a multicade is simple, user-friendly, and one of the reasons these cabinets remain popular for home arcades. With just a few button presses, you can go from blasting aliens in Galaga to chomping dots in Pac-Man—all without leaving your seat.
If you’re looking for the ultimate retro gaming experience, a multicade is a versatile and fun investment that keeps the arcade spirit alive.
How Do You Change Games on a Multicade? (Step-by-Step Guide)
Multicades let you play multiple arcade classics on a single machine. But if you’re new to them, you might wonder: how exactly do you switch between games? Don’t worry—it’s easier than you think.
🕹️ Step 1: Power On the Multicade
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Flip the power switch on the back or side of the cabinet.
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The machine will boot into its game selection menu.
🕹️ Step 2: Navigate the Game Menu
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Use the joystick to scroll up and down through the list of available games.
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On some models, the trackball or spinner can also move quickly through titles.
👉 Example: On a 60-in-1 multicade, games are listed alphabetically—so scrolling is fast and simple.
🕹️ Step 3: Select Your Game
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Once the desired game is highlighted, press the Player 1 Start button.
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The game will load instantly, just like an original arcade machine.
🕹️ Step 4: Exiting a Game
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When you want to play something else, press a button combo:
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On most multicades, it’s Player 1 Start + Player 2 Start together.
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Others may use a dedicated Exit button on the control panel.
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This returns you to the main menu.
🕹️ Step 5: Repeat and Enjoy
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Scroll, select, and launch as many games as you want!
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Many modern multicades also let you save favorites, so your top picks are always easy to find.
🔧 Bonus: Tips for Smooth Switching
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Learn shortcuts – each multicade has slightly different button combos.
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Use categories – on 1000+ game multicades, filter by genre (fighters, shooters, puzzles, etc.).
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Customize controls – some systems allow button remapping for comfort.
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Save scores – high-end multicades let you keep track of progress even when switching games.
🎯 Final Thoughts
Changing games on a multicade is designed to be simple. With just a joystick scroll and a button press, you can go from blasting aliens in Galaga to eating ghosts in Pac-Man. Whether you own a compact 60-in-1 or a massive 3000-in-1 cabinet, the process is user-friendly and keeps the arcade magic alive at home.