Space Guide: Retro Arcade Machine

Any arcade enthusiast born in the 80s would tell you that it was a strange time to be born in. It was when the golden age of arcades started slipping into the sunset, where consoles first began the gaming revolution which would dominate the gaming landscape for the following decade or so. Having said that, any 80s baby would have had a childhood with arcade tokens in hand, exploring through the plethora of arcade cabinets filled with a great sense of dilemma as to which cabinet deserved slotting our precious and limited possessions into. This gave me a great sense of nostalgia, which is why we decided to go back in time and write our pick of the 10 Greatest Games for the 80s babies (late 80s - 90s).   10. NBA Jam Date Released: 1993 Genre: Sports Quite possibly the greatest sports arcade game ever, NBA Jam is sn iconic as it is crazily unrealistic—but hey, where's the fun if you're not having Scottie Pippen pot a 3-pointer from the other end of the court, right? Not forgetting the overly excited commentary, flashing scores digits and 20-foot jumps and dunks.   9. Michael Jackson Moonwalker Date Released: 1990 Genre: Beat 'em Up Not easily found in local arcades but it makes it into our list for the wonderful depiction of pop culture back then. Play as an impeccably-dressed Michael Jackson, beat up bad guys by moonwalking, and save kidnapped children all while bobbing your head to the tunes of 'Smooth Criminal', 'Thriller', and 'Beat it'. 8. X-Men vs Street Fighters Date Released: 1997 Genre: Fighting Newer than the rest on the list, X-Men vs Street Fighters can be best remembered as being one of the greatest fighting crossovers of all time. It wasn't just playing as Ryu or Wolverine, but you could actually play both characters from two universes in the same team, all while performing elaborate combos on your hapless opponents. Avengers, who?   7. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Date Released: 1989 Genre: Beat 'em Up Based on every guy's favourite childhood cartoon, TMNT allows you to choose from 4 playable turtles to go on a crusade and save kidnapped April O'Neil from the evil Shredder. Of course, you're saving the world while eating pizzas and bashing up homogeneous footman with cones, fire hydrants, and oil drums.   6. WWF Wrestlefest Date Released: 1991 Genre: Fighting Now, take a look at the screenshot and tell me you don't remember mashing your buttons crazily to get out of the 3, 2, 1 pins! This game was simply huge with a massive roster of incredibly iconic characters—Hulk Hogan, Ultimate Warrior, Mr Perfect, Big Boss Man. As a WWF watching 7-year old, this was the simplest form of a dream come true. It truly is the greatest WWF game of all time. 4. KOF 98 Date Released: 1998 Genre: Fighting Another latecomer of the era. KOF (King of Fighter) 98 is easily the best and most iconic version of the KOF series. It was never a surprise to see multiple KOF machines lining up in the arcades, all fully occupied with players exhibiting their combos. Even now, KOF 98 represents the benchmark of what a fighting game should be like.   3. Golden Axe Date Released: 1989 Genre: Beat 'em Up Easily the most asked-for game by our patrons, Golden Axe is the pioneer of the fantasy genre that would go on to inspire some of the greatest titles in history. As a Beat 'em Up, Golden Axe features unique characteristics like spells, making it vastly different from the regular hack-and-slash that you'd encounter aplenty during that gaming period.   2. Metal Slug Date Released: 1996 Genre: Beat 'em Up You know, I love Contra. In fact, I grew up playing Contra. But Metal Slug just blows it out of the water, simple as that. From the very first instalment, the attention to details of this epic war Beat em Up was just incredible. You have tonnes of different weapons to choose from, grenades to throw, POWs to save and tanks to ride in. What more can we say? And now to the Number 1...   1. Street Fighter II: The World Warrior Date Released: 1991 Genre: Fighting One of the greatest—if not the greatest—of all time. How many times during your childhood have you tried performing Ryu's Hurricane Kick/ Shoryuken on your hapless siblings? I rest my case. Despite having simpler gameplay as compared to later titles, SFII still remained timeless when the editors replayed it on one of our own cabinets. The fighting dynamics are so perfectly designed to combine both skill and strategic timing, while every character remains uniquely balanced and playable. But it's not just the fighting that makes SFII the best. It is how the sound of the plane zooming across the map from the moment you've inserted your coin, to having Ryu's iconic theme song blast through the cabinet. The goosebumps rise on your skin, adrenaline and blood pumping through as you actually believe for a moment that you're indeed on a quest to becoming the World Warrior. Simply put, there's no greater arcade game for this generation than Street Fighter II. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xI284D4y1q4 That rounds up our list of the 10 Greatest Arcade Games for the 80s babies, and if like us, you're itching to play some of these games all over again, check out our range of Retrocade Series in person, and have a go at these games again on a full-sized cabinet with authentic arcade controls! You can also take a look at our updated favourites here as well.

The Arcade Era, is the Magic Really Over? You pass the doorway and it’s like you’ve stepped into a different world from the one you’re used to, people hunched over mechanical machines in dimly-lit corners as they insert tokens into its slot to be greeted by 2-bit animated sprites and retro soundtracks that remind you of a simpler time.  For many of us of this generation, arcades are a limbo of both old and new, a combination of analogue love and technology that has given birth to such a classic and iconic gaming medium. It is a concept so deeply enmeshed into pop culture that even if we aren’t familiar with it in real life, we still find it so recognisable through the media’s romanticisation of nostalgia. However, in essence, what are they really? Are arcades merely a confined space in which we play classic titles in ‘dimly-lit corners’, or are they representational of gaming as a whole? Can we truly say that analogue games like pinball and the original Street Fighter are rapidly becoming obsolete when they are so many remakes of these games in different mediums? What does the future have in store for this beloved childhood space?  I’m here to dig deep down into finding out the answers to some of these questions.    Cultivating Childhood Love While it’s been argued countless times that video games’ popularity is what triggered arcades sharp decline in the 90s, it is video games that have enabled arcade games to reach the broader masses. For example, classic games like Donkey Kong and Atari’s Pong are those that are still considered family favourites and labelled as endlessly replayable. It’s no wonder that reboots and remakes are now an ongoing trend with pop culture: if it’s not broken then don’t fix it, right?   It cannot be argued that even back in its heydays, reinterpretation amongst games has always been a norm, paying homage to our childhood memories and creating something new that can be enjoyed by future generations to come. Therefore, video games have actually helped sustain this culture of nostalgia that shines a new light back on arcade games and their timelessness.   Technology & Video Games: The Arcade’s Make Or Break? Modernisation is a tricky thing to talk about regarding this topic. This is because it’s a double-edged sword for both arcades and the gaming industry, allowing us to create better machines and consoles by the year while simultaneously challenging the creative minds behind some of our favourite titles to keep coming up with more original stories with each iteration. There’s constant pressure behind the success of each title game and its predecessors, which means that so many ongoing series face the dilemma of falling flat on gamers’ expectations in aspects of story-telling rather than gameplay. While remakes and reboots are certainly popular, they only do so much to bring old players back into replaying what is already familiar and dear to them.  However, this doesn’t mean that technology has only been responsible for ushering in the death of arcades and analogue games. In fact, the rise of VR has provided new opportunities, incorporating a mechanical feel with VR immersion to create a whole new experience for old and new players alike. Rolling out this technology on a large scale is still unrealistic currently due to its high costs but with future developments down the line, there is certainly plenty of potential to bring back interests or even allow players to be able to experience the arcade scene in the comforts of their own home.    Social Opportunities: Breaking Stereotypes Arcades also provide a great form of socialising with family and friends, especially for those who cannot invest in their own consoles and PCs. Furthermore, arcade machines are bulky and generally a hefty investment, which just makes it easier to visit an arcade to try out arcade-exclusive titles and experience the game as it was originally intended to be played.  In fact, arcade joints are being seen as more than gaming hubs now; they’re about socialising and building a community. For example, many shop owners have embraced the ‘barcade’ concept to cater towards a continuously ageing crowd—merging food and boozy beverages to accompany your arcade gaming experience. This semi-casual environment has actually been a great way for allowing professional and casual players (kids and adults alike) to intermingle.  Barcades have also given leeway to arcade owners to venture into their own creative endeavours to entice customers, which includes the novelty idea of craft beer and game pairings—bars will provide you with a specific craft beer that is catered to the taste of your favourite arcade game to enhance the experience. It’s certainly a great way to encourage customers to try new things while keeping the experience fresh whether you’re there for the drinks, the games, or both.  Of course, there will always be events hosted for the more competitive crowd as people will always want to become better at the game without a doubt. However, arcades have also become a place for family fun and just a good place to hang out for most crowds on a Friday or weekend night.    One Man’s Trash, Another Man’s Treasure: Asian Popularity [caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="4778"] While Japan has been responsible for the popularity of console gaming over the years, it is undeniable that the arcade scene still plays a big part within their culture.[/caption] Although arcades and arcade games were made popular in America, this medium actually continues to thrive in the Asian market despite the decline of its Western counterpart. Birthing a long-standing line of fighting genre titles like Tekken, Street Fighters, King of Fighters, Guilty Gear, and more, the arcade scene in Japan has never been healthier. In fact, one might even be able to catch a glimpse of some household classics and best-selling arcade games of all time hit the stands. I would even go to say that Maimai, the popular Japanese rhythm arcade game that released in 2012, has garnered a surprising amount of interest amongst Asian teens and young adults even to this day. Just shy of the beginning of 2020 when the COVID situation was still riffed with speculation, the lines queuing up for your own turn to play on the Maimai machines was nothing short of ridiculous. Growing Affluence Meets An Increased Appreciation for Lifestyle. Arcade machines are making a surprising comeback as individuals seek to furnish their homes with nostalgic gaming experiences. This resurgence can be attributed to a combination of growing affluence and a deep appreciation for a fulfilling lifestyle. Bringing arcade machines into homes goes beyond mere decoration; it is a deliberate choice to curate a space that reflects personality and embraces the joy of play. These captivating machines not only transport us back to a time of bustling arcades but also serve as statement pieces that enhance the overall ambiance. In a world dominated by screens, arcade machines offer a tactile and interactive source of entertainment, fostering connection and shared memories. The rising popularity of arcade machines in homes signifies a longing for genuine connection, shared experiences, and the pursuit of joy. By investing in these captivating machines, individuals are transforming their living spaces into havens of entertainment, personal expression, and nostalgia. Arcade machines are more than just nostalgic relics; they have found their place as timeless icons of play, reminding us to cherish the thrill of shared experiences and the joy of face-to-face interaction. Conclusion It is not difficult to see why Arcade Machines are winning the popularity contest —the revival of vinyl, the growing eSports scene, Asia’s expanding arcade market—I believe the most important thing about arcade games (or just games in general) is that it has enabled us to break social boundaries despite its limitation and should not be overlooked even with its stereotypes. As long as the gaming industry as a whole continues to thrive, I am certain that arcade games will still be around the corner for decades to come.  Inspired? Check out our range of Arcade Machines that promises to revive your excitement for nostalgia.

Do you miss going to bars or arcades when you could? Longing for the days when you could hang out with your friends and family without having to expose them and yourself to any risks in Singapore’s concrete jungle?  Whatever the reason might be, many of us are now spending more time at home than we ever dreamed of.  However, that doesn’t mean that life at home can’t be fun. Instead of dreaming about the past, we feel it has become more important than ever to make houses into homes that are fun and enjoyable if we’re going to be spending so much more time in them. In fact, why not bring the arcade experience right into your own home by making your very own barcade! While everyone’s interpretation is different, a barcade is essentially the concept of a pub/arcade that has been converted into a single location so you can have the best of both worlds. There isn’t anything stopping you from introducing these two things into the comfort of your own home! I mean, how many of us have had to cut a good winning streak short just because the arcade was closing and you needed to go back home? With a home barcade, such a problem will just become a thing of the past!   Believe it or not. People are turning homes into personal bars. Following the saying, “Work hard and play harder,” games also provide so many benefits to your home and work life. Just having a space at home that allows you to disconnect and even destress whenever it might be a rough day has been proven to help reduce your mental and physical tension, actually increasing your overall productivity throughout the day.  Also, don’t be fooled by the misconception that you need a lot of space to have your own barcade! You can utilise any space limitations (if you have them!) by choosing items based on your own preferences.  There are plenty of options for all your gaming needs, both big and small! At The Men’s Cave, we don’t believe in cutting corners and only source the best and coolest gadgets and games for your entertainment! Over the years, we've managed to create a wide range of products that will make you spoilt for choice! Here are some of our personal favourites that we recommend you try out if you’re tight on space and just starting out!: VDarts Mini Plus, Convenience and Quality in One!   [caption id="attachment_7014" align="aligncenter" width="884"] Offering both convenience and quality at a fraction of most retail prices, the VDarts Mini Plus condenses the professional experience of dart playing into the comforts of your own home or office space.[/caption]   The One and Only, Stern The Mandalorian Pinball Machine [caption id="attachment_10447" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] A treat for any Star Wars fan, the Stern Mandalorian Pinball Machine will transport and immerse you in the beloved world of The Mandalorian series with its fast gameplay, exciting visual effects, and brilliant soundtrack taken straight from the series itself.[/caption] The Classic Atari Pong Coffee Table [caption id="attachment_7745" align="aligncenter" width="738"] A classic game that began the revolution of video games as we know it today, the ATARI Pong Coffee Table will make waking up in the mornings with your morning coffee just all the more exciting![/caption]   Meet James, and his Bishi Bashi in his studio apartment [caption id="attachment_7955" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] The quintessential arcade machine, the Bishi Bashi Arcade Machine is a hit, button-smashing fun for groups of all ages. Bright and colourful with a variety of different game genres to choose from, it’ll be a household favourite for sure![/caption]   How to get started quickly? If you'd like some advice on how to kickstart your barcade adventures at home, we're happy to provide you with a consultation session (they'll always be free!) on WhatsApp or in our showroom to test any products you’re interested in.  You can even check us out on Instagram to get all the inspiration on how to design your own game rooms or sign up for our newsletters (located at the bottom of this article!) for first updates, invites to exclusive events, and all the latest reviews and releases we have in store, just for you!  Let us make your homes the most fun place to be!