For many homeowners, a dedicated game room is a place for family and friends to get together and have fun. It’s a room to unwind, relax, and enjoy the company of loved ones.
Maybe you already have a home game room and are looking for inspiration. Alternatively, maybe you’re planning to add a game room to your home and need some ideas. In either case, this blog post will help you find classic arcade games perfect for your home collection.
How To Choose The Right Game Room Games
Before purchasing games for your home, it’s important to first take some time to evaluate a few things.
Price
You should always begin with a realistic budget. This means taking into account:
- Shipping and handling costs of games you purchase online
- Potential repair costs if you are purchasing a used machine
- Regular upkeep and maintenance costs for the first year
- Changes that must be made to the room to accommodate for the game
Additional costs can quickly add up. So, you should always consider all aspects that go into a game room.
Size
Most of the time, arcade games are actually bigger than they may appear. This is true whether you’re shopping online or at a store or warehouse. Before purchasing any arcade game, always measure the room dimensions and available space to ensure it will fit in your home.
Maintenance
Whether an arcade game is brand new or decades old, it will eventually require maintenance. Before buying any games for your home, learn about warranties and support for both new and used machines. Also, take time to educate yourself on proper care and maintenance of arcade machines. This can help you avoid costly repairs.
Fun
Finally, decide with your family what games you enjoy playing:
- Do you like games that are more skill based?
- Do you like graphical games or traditional table games?
- Do you enjoy games that can be played as a group?
These are only some of the questions that should be asked before committing to a specific game or type of game. Your game should be an investment that the whole family can enjoy.
Learn More About Building A Game Room
Classic Arcade Cabinets For Games Rooms
Nothing brings a game room to life more than the bright glow and digital hum of an arcade cabinet. Whether you’re a child of the arcade-era or simply looking for a fun addition to your game room, an arcade cabinet offers hours of fun. But it’s important to pick the right game.
Upright Cabinets
Upright cabinets are classic. They feature brilliant artwork and are easily positioned in almost every space. While there are still many new arcade games being produced, classic cabinets offer not only nostalgia, but timeless gameplay. Here are a few classic options to consider:
Star Wars Trilogy Arcade, 1998 (Sega)
Few franchises have stood the test of time or made a pop culture impact as resounding as Star Wars. Released in 1998 by Sega, Star Wars Trilogy Arcade is a still a sought after game that makes a great home game room addition for any Star Wars fan.
Pac-Man, 1980 (Namco)
Few arcade games are as iconic as Pac-Man. The simplicity of its gameplay coupled with the ever more challenging levels have helped Pac-Man remain one of the most beloved and ageless classics.
NBA Jam, 1993 (Midway)
The flashy gameplay, robust player rosters, and thrilling arcade basketball action have made NBA Jam an all-time favorite since its initial release in 1993. Considered a true classic of ‘90s gaming, NBA Jam is a fun add-on to any family game room!
Donkey Kong, 1981 (Nintendo)
Another arcade icon, Donkey Kong was a smash hit for Nintendo. Like Pac-Man, Donkey Kong has still held up - offering fun, challenging gameplay. It’s a unique addition to any arcade game room.
Combination Arcade Games
Lastly, there are a number of newer arcade games that combine multiple classic games into one cabinet. These are often cost-effective options for bringing multiple games and hours of fun to a home game room.
Shooting Games
Arcade shooting games are fast-paced and challenging. Using a light gun to detect hits, the technology behind this style of games has existed for decades. There are a number of classic arcade shooters that still hold up for modern gamers. Each fits in perfectly with a larger home game room.
The House of The Dead 2, 2000 (Sega)
The House of The Dead series of shooting games helped to launch a zombie media renaissance beginning in the late 90s. The sequel to the original game, The House of the Dead 2, is widely regarded as one of the best arcade shooters of all-time.
While darker and more violent, it’s nonetheless a classic game perfect for a home arcade looking to add something special!
Time Crisis, 1995 (Namco)
Released by Namco in 1995, Time Crisis, and its more recent sequels, graced arcades with a refined 3D light-gun shooter design.
Modern versions of the game added a pedal-based cover system and pushed arcade graphics to the extreme. Less gory than games like The House of The Dead, Time Crisis might be better suited for a wider range of home game rooms.
Terminator 2: Judgement Day, 1991 (Midway)
The Terminator movie franchise is undoubtedly one of the longest running blockbusters of all-time. Similarly, it spawned a multitude of games. One of the most popular is the arcade light gun shooter, Terminator 2: Judgement Day.
The game was an instant success when it hit arcades in ‘91. Today, it still tops many people’s best-of lists. Whether you’re a fan of the franchise or simply want a cool, action-packed game for your home arcade, this is one game worth considering.
Arcade Basketball Games
One of life’s greatest pleasures is the feeling of sinking a basketball through the hoop. It’s so satisfying that arcade games have been built around it. Arcade basketball games offer a lot of active fun to a game room and come in many varieties.
Hoop Fever, ICE
Hoop Fever is one of the most widely played arcade basketball games. It’s straightforward design and classic look make it an arcade-goers favorite.
If you’re searching for a quality basketball game for your home, Hoop Fever is a perfect option for most game rooms.
NBA Hoop Troop, ICE
If you’re looking for a basketball game with a few more bells and whistles, then ICE’s NBA Hoop Troop is an excellent choice. Hoop Troop’s cabinet features over 100 LEDs, an acrylic backboard, and officially licensed NBA graphics.
Shop For New & Used Arcade Games
Classic Pinball Machines For Your Home
There are many exciting pinball machines that make awesome additions to a home arcade. However, it’s important to keep in mind that pinball machines can be expensive and require extra maintenance. Make sure you know which games you want and educate yourself on both fair pricing and care practices.
Medieval Madness, 1997 (Williams)
Widely regarded as one of the most popular pinball games of all time, Medieval Madness tops many enthusiasts “best of” lists.
The game is known for its tongue-in-cheek humor, excellent design, beautiful playfield, and robust gameplay.
Monster Bash, 1998 (Williams)
Another pinball hit from Williams, Monster Bash was originally released in 1998 to wide-spread acclaim. It features classic Universal Monsters like Dracula and The Wolf Man. Colorful, over-the-top, and tons of fun, Monster Bash is another machine that tops many enthusiasts’ lists!
While the original cabinet is highly sought after, the Chicago Gaming Company recently released a true to the original Monster Bash remake.
Jurassic Park, 2019 (Stern)
While a newer arcade game from manufacturer Stern, Jurassic Park quickly gained accolades and fans for its unique design and varied playfield. Whether you’re a fan of the dinosaur filled franchise or not, this is one pinball machine that is packed with excitement for players of all skills and ages.
Don’t Forget Other Types of Game Room Games!
Skee Ball
Skee ball is a truly timeless classic arcade game. There are many different types of modern skee ball and alley roller machines for sale. You can even find affordably priced, brand new home skee ball machines.
Skee ball has a storied history, going all the way back over 100 years! Yet, the game has remained a staple of arcades until this day. There is no denying that it offers a fun, skill-based challenge perfect for both kids and adults. It’s also a fantastic addition for a home game room!
Pool Tables
Billiards is a table game with a long and storied history. Throughout the centuries there have been many variations of “cue sports.” However, pool, as it’s commonly known today, is a staple of entertainment venues and home game rooms.
We have a wide selection of pool tables for homes available online.
Shuffleboard
Shuffleboard is another classic, stable-styled game that fits in with any game or rec room.
There’s a lot to love about the game of shuffleboard: it’s easy to learn, simple to play, and requires some skill to master. There are many affordable home versions of shuffleboard available.
Check out our full selection of shuffleboards to find the perfect match for your home!
Shop For Arcade Classics At M&P Amusement
New or refurbished, M&P Amusement has a huge selection of classic arcade games. Whether you’re looking to start your home game room collection or you want to add something new and exciting to your existing home arcade, we have you covered.
Our new and used machines come with warranties and technical support, so you can feel confident in your purchase. Looking for a specific game or have questions? Contact us online or give us a call at 717-887-5293.