Absolutely! A Raspberry Pi can run arcade games, and it’s actually one of the most popular uses for these tiny computers. Let me break it down step by step, including which Pi models work best, which emulators/software to use, and what to expect.
🎮 1. Which Raspberry Pi Models Are Best
Not all Pis are created equal when it comes to arcade gaming. Performance depends heavily on the model.
| Pi Model | Arcade Capability | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Raspberry Pi 4 (4GB or 8GB RAM) | Excellent | Can run most classic arcade games, SNES, Genesis, NeoGeo, CPS1/CPS2, MAME, and even some PSP/N64. USB ports and HDMI output make it easy to connect controllers and monitors. |
| Raspberry Pi 400 | Excellent | Essentially a Pi 4 built into a keyboard; same performance. Good for compact setups. |
| Raspberry Pi 3B+ | Good | Handles NES, SNES, Sega Genesis/Mega Drive, and many MAME games up to ~1995. Struggles with more demanding arcade titles like CPS2 or 3D games. |
| Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W | Moderate | Can run lightweight emulators like NES, SNES, and early arcade games, but heavy arcade games will lag. |
✅ Tip: For the best experience, go with Pi 4 or Pi 400.
🎮 2. Arcade Emulators & Software
To run arcade games, you’ll need emulation software:
a. RetroPie
Most popular option.
Supports MAME, FinalBurn Neo, FB Alpha, NeoGeo, and console emulators.
Provides an Arcade frontend, so you can browse games with a controller.
Website: https://retropie.org.uk
b. Recalbox
Similar to RetroPie, but more plug-and-play.
Built-in arcade emulators and support for wireless controllers.
Website: https://www.recalbox.com
c. Lakka / RetroArch
Lightweight Linux distro.
Great for older arcade games and consoles.
Very responsive and good for low-latency setups.
Website: https://www.lakka.tv
🎮 3. Controllers & Arcade Inputs
You can play arcade games on Pi with:
USB gamepads (Retro-Bit, 8BitDo, or Xbox/PS controllers)
Arcade joysticks (via USB encoder boards)
Keyboard (not ideal, but works in a pinch)
💡 Tip: If you want an authentic arcade feel, you can build a mini arcade cabinet and connect a Pi via a USB encoder to arcade buttons & joysticks.
🎮 4. Performance & Game Compatibility
Old arcade games (8-bit to 16-bit): Run perfectly on Pi 3 or Pi 4.
NeoGeo, CPS1/CPS2: Pi 4 handles these well; Pi 3 might lag for some titles.
3D arcade titles / Model 2 / Model 3: Pi 4 can run some, but expect performance issues with very heavy titles.
✅ Conclusion: If your goal is classic arcade games (Pac-Man, Street Fighter II, Metal Slug, Golden Axe), a Raspberry Pi 4 or Pi 400 is more than capable.
How to Set Up a Raspberry Pi Arcade Machine
Turning a Raspberry Pi into a mini arcade machine is easier than you think. With the right Pi, some software, and controllers, you can enjoy classic arcade games right at home.
🛠 1. What You’ll Need
Hardware:
Raspberry Pi 4 (4GB or 8GB RAM) – Best for performance.
MicroSD Card (32GB or larger) – For the OS and games.
Power supply – Official Pi 4 USB-C power adapter recommended.
HDMI cable & monitor/TV – For display.
USB controller or arcade stick – Retro-Bit, 8BitDo, Xbox, or PS controllers.
Optional: Mini arcade cabinet or arcade joystick + buttons with USB encoder.
Software:
RetroPie (most popular, supports MAME & arcade emulators)
Recalbox (plug-and-play alternative)
Lakka / RetroArch (lightweight, low-latency option)
💡 Tip: RetroPie is the most beginner-friendly and highly customizable for arcade setups.
💻 2. Install RetroPie on Your Pi
Download the RetroPie image for Raspberry Pi 4: https://retropie.org.uk/download/
Use Raspberry Pi Imager or balenaEtcher to write the RetroPie image to your microSD card.
Insert the microSD card into your Pi, connect HDMI, controllers, and power it on.
RetroPie will boot and guide you through initial setup, including controller configuration.
🎮 3. Add Arcade Games (ROMs)
On your PC, download legal ROMs (some are freely available or your own backups).
Transfer ROMs to your Pi:
Using USB drive: Create a folder named retropie, plug it into Pi → RetroPie auto-detects it.
Using SFTP over Wi-Fi: Connect via network and copy files into /home/pi/RetroPie/roms/.
Restart RetroPie and your games should appear in the arcade section (MAME, NeoGeo, CPS1/2).
💡 Tip: Start with MAME 0.37b5 for classic arcade games—it’s lightweight and compatible.
🕹 4. Connect Retro Controllers
Option 1: USB Controllers
Plug your USB controller into the Pi.
RetroPie will ask you to map the buttons.
Option 2: Wireless Controllers (Bluetooth)
Put controller into pairing mode.
Go to RetroPie → Bluetooth settings → Register and Connect to Bluetooth Device.
Map buttons as prompted.
Option 3: Arcade Joystick + Buttons
Connect via USB encoder board.
RetroPie will detect inputs like a standard controller.
Map the joystick directions and buttons in RetroPie.
⚡ 5. Optimize Performance
Use Pi 4 for heavy arcade games (NeoGeo, CPS2).
Enable runahead / video shaders for smoother gameplay.
For MAME, configure frameskip if older Pi models lag.
🖥 6. Optional: Build a Mini Arcade Cabinet
Use a wood or acrylic cabinet kit.
Mount your monitor, Pi, and arcade joystick/buttons.
Connect everything via USB.
RetroPie has attract mode themes to make it look like a real arcade machine.
✅ 7. Enjoy Your Arcade!
Launch RetroPie, select Arcade → MAME or NeoGeo, and start playing.
You now have a fully functional retro arcade setup that runs NES, SNES, Genesis, NeoGeo, CPS1/2, and many other arcade games.
🛒 Recommended Controllers for Retro Arcade Gaming
Retro-Bit USB & Bluetooth Controllers
8BitDo SN30 Pro / Pro+ (Bluetooth & wired)
Arcade stick kits with USB encoder