Growing up, I always had a fascination with arcade machines. The sound of coins clinking, the flashing lights, and the challenge of beating a high score made these games an irresistible attraction. Multiplayer options in arcade games have always added a thrilling layer to the experience, turning solitary fun into a competitive or cooperative social activity. As of late, the Best Arcade Machines List features some classics that remain peerless when it comes to multiplayer engagement.
A standout is, without a doubt, the legendary “Street Fighter II.” Released by Capcom in 1991, this game revolutionized the fighting game genre and has retained a devoted community for over three decades. Back in the day, the excitement of challenging someone next to you was unparalleled. With a roster of eight distinct characters, each having its own unique set of moves, players often spend hours mastering the precision and timing required for special attacks. The fact that the game has shipped more than 15 million units across various platforms is testament to its timeless appeal.
Then there’s “Pac-Man Battle Royale.” Although Pac-Man himself originated in the 1980s, this multiplayer variation brings a fresh twist to the classic. Instead of the traditional format where one player tries to gobble up pellets while avoiding ghosts, up to four players can join in, competing against each other in a bid to outlast their opponents. In this format, not only do you aim to eat the pellets, but also, you try to chomp down on your friends’ Pac-Man avatars—a fun, chaotic element to the iconic game.
“Gauntlet” also deserves mention. It’s an action RPG released initially by Atari Games in 1985, with multiplayer gameplay at its core. In this game, players each choose a character class—Warrior, Wizard, Valkyrie, or Elf—and descend into dungeons filled with monsters and treasures. What made “Gauntlet” memorable is how teamwork and strategy profoundly affect the gameplay experience. You can’t just focus on your own character; you need to work together to survive and conquer the labyrinths. Gauntlet’s shared player experience still holds a certain magic, bringing people together to this day.
For the sports fans, “NBA Jam” offers something special. Originally launched by Midway in 1993, it was not just about playing basketball; it was about the ridiculous, exaggerated style of play that let characters make jaw-dropping dunks from halfway across the court. I remember pouring quarters into this machine with my friends during weekends. With its dynamic two-on-two gameplay and catchphrases like “He’s on fire!”, NBA Jam captured the hearts of not only basketball enthusiasts but also arcade lovers around the globe. It became a cultural phenomenon, leading to more than a billion dollars in arcade revenue during its peak.
Meanwhile, fans of rhythm games cannot ignore “Dance Dance Revolution” (DDR). This game, produced by Konami, burst onto the scene in 1998 and established a worldwide sensation through its innovative dance pad controller where players match steps to beats. DDR supports multiplayer, allowing two participants to dance side-by-side, competing for the best score. It’s a test of rhythm, agility, and stamina—requiring players to not only accurately hit the notes but do so with style and flair. Even if you didn’t own a pair of dancing shoes, you probably wanted to try this at least once.
When it comes to racing games, “Daytona USA” holds an unbeatable spot. Released in 1994 by Sega, this arcade racing game offered something spectacular for its time: fast-paced, high-octane racing with up to eight players connected through linked arcade cabinets. I recall having fierce competitions at the local arcade, where the challenge was not just about speed but also maneuvering around tight corners and overtaking rivals at the perfect moment. Even today, Daytona USA remains a staple in many arcades thanks to its timeless design and competitive nature.
Last but certainly not least, “Mario Kart Arcade GP” deserves a nod. Nintendo’s collaboration with Namco resulted in a uniquely entertaining experience, skillfully combining the beloved racing mechanics from the home console games with arcade-exclusive features. Of course, there’s nothing quite like the chaos of playing Mario Kart with friends, as everyone races to grab power-ups and outmaneuver each other. It’s a simple premise that still results in some of the most exhilarating multiplayer fun you can have.
Each of these games—despite the many years since their original release—holds a cherished place in the realm of arcade entertainment for delivering multiplayer experiences that are fun, engaging, and memorable. The nostalgia and energy in these games illustrate how shared play not only captured the essence of competition but also created enduring bonds between players.