How to Build an Arcade

You can build your own arcade system to relive and replay classic arcade games. Imagine the heavy-duty classic arcade joysticks, buttons, and controls used in game rooms and arcades in your own home. Using emulators such as MAME (Multiple Arcade Machine Emulator) and classic arcade software, you can enjoy Space Invaders, Pac-Man, and Galaga just like you're back at the old pizza parlor, but no quarters or tokens are necessary. You can build your arcade from scratch or, using prebuilt components, you can build your arcade with minimal time or assembly required.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Arcade Cabinet Controller Computer Monitor Mouse Keyboard Speakers Power Strip

How to Build an Arcade

1. 

   Purchase or build your arcade cabinet. This is the base structure to hold your arcade components. It should be sturdy enough to handle intense gaming motion.
   You can find prebuilt arcade cabinets online or else find construction plans for building your own. Websites such as NorthCoast Custom Arcades and xgaming.com offer both options, electrical components, and links to other resources.

2. 

   Purchase or build your controller(s). Plans, wiring diagrams, and components are available online, but if you're not comfortable with electrical construction, you can buy prebuilt joysticks and controllers. Prebuilt arcade controllers also offer optional connectors/adapters to connect to all major gaming consoles in addition to a PC.

3. 

   Connect, boot, and test the computer and peripherals.

4. 

   Connect speakers, preferably with a sub-woofer component for an optimal gaming experience.

5. 

   Install drivers/controller software, then install game software. (Download and add rom files if using MAME software.)

6. 

   Configure settings to optimize controls, performance, and results.

Tips & Warnings

• With optional adapters/connectors, you may use a Sony PlayStation, Microsoft Xbox, or Nintendo Wii rather than a PC. For PC arcades, Atari and other classic arcade games are available for purchase. MAME arcade software also allows original and simulated versions of classic arcade games to run. If you really want to do minimal construction on your arcade, you can buy premade cabinets or even complete arcade systems ready to plug and play.

References

• NorthCoast Custom Arcades

Resources

• NorthCoast Custom Arcades
• Multiple Arcade Machine Emulator
• MAME Roms at ROMNation.net
• X-Arcade Controllers, Components and Cabinets