What are the old arcade machines called?

🕹️ Old Arcade Machines: The Classics That Started It All

When most people think of video games, they imagine consoles, PCs, or mobile devices. But before any of that, there were arcade machines—those big, colorful cabinets that lined game rooms, malls, and entertainment centers. These old arcade machines aren’t just gaming devices; they’re cultural icons that shaped the video game industry.

🎮 What Are Old Arcade Machines Called?

The term “arcade machine” generally refers to stand-up cabinets that house electronic games, often coin-operated. In the 1970s and 1980s, these machines were the heart of gaming culture.

Some common names include:

Arcade Cabinet: The full enclosure that houses the game’s screen, controls, and hardware.

Video Arcade Machine: Specifically refers to machines that use video displays rather than mechanical or pinball systems.

Classic Arcade Machine / Retro Arcade Machine: Used today to describe vintage or collectible machines.

Coin-Op Machine: Emphasizes that the game is coin-operated, requiring quarters, tokens, or similar currency.

🌟 Types of Old Arcade Machines

Stand-Up Cabinets

The classic upright design, often featuring a joystick and buttons.

Examples: Pac-Man, Space Invaders, Donkey Kong.

Cocktail Cabinets

Table-like design where players sit across from each other; screen is embedded under glass.

Popular in bars and cafes.

Examples: Pong, Galaga, Ms. Pac-Man.

Cockpit / Sit-Down Cabinets

Players sit inside a molded cabinet, often for racing or flight games.

Examples: Pole Position, After Burner, Star Wars.

Pinball Machines

Mechanical and electronic hybrid; players use flippers to score points.

Examples: Pinbot, Addams Family, Twilight Zone.

🕹️ Why Old Arcade Machines Are Iconic

Nostalgia: They remind players of the excitement of the arcade era, social competition, and high-score rivalries.

Physical Interaction: Unlike modern games, players manually manipulated joysticks, buttons, or steering wheels.

Cultural Significance: Many classic machines like Pac-Man or Donkey Kong influenced pop culture, inspiring merchandise, TV shows, and movies.

Collectibility: Retro arcade cabinets are now highly sought after by collectors, often restored or adapted for modern play.

🎮 Modern Adaptations

Today, you don’t have to visit an old arcade to experience these classics. Modern options include:

Mini Arcade Cabinets – Scaled-down replicas of classic machines.

All-in-One Retro Consoles – Devices like the AtGames Legends Ultimate contain dozens of built-in arcade games.

Emulators – Software recreations of old arcade machines on PCs, consoles, and handheld devices.

✅ Conclusion

Old arcade machines, whether called arcade cabinets, coin-op machines, or retro cabinets, represent the beginning of gaming history. They offered social, physical, and challenging gameplay that shaped the industry and inspired generations of gamers.

For anyone exploring retro gaming, old arcade machines are more than just games—they’re a window into the golden age of arcades and a reminder of how far gaming has come.