'80s Kids Are All Obsessed With Vintage Arcade Games—Here's What Experts Want You to Know Before You Buy
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There is something about a vintage arcade machine that brings out our inner child. According to the National Museum of Play, the history of arcade games in the United States traces its roots back to the 19th century, originating in dime museums and amusement parlors. Pinball machines were invented in the 1930s, leading to the development of electromechanical games in the 1960s, which paved the way for arcade video games in the early 1970s.
The arcades we recognize today experienced their golden age in the late 1970s and early 1980s. By 1981, there were about 24,000 full-fledged arcades in the United States. Today, one of the main reasons for their renewed popularity among gamers and collectors is their nostalgic appeal.
“Nostalgia plays a significant role, especially because many people who grew up in the '70s and '80s have romantic memories of spending hours playing games like Mario Bros, Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, and Space Invaders,” says Lucas Wyland, founder of gaming analytics platform Steambase. “The times were simpler in those days, and so were the games. But they brought immense childhood joy.”
Besides evoking happy memories of trips to the arcade, the games themselves are more tactile.
“Gamers are drawn to these simpler, pixelated classics because they offer a break from the high-stakes complexity of modern gaming,” adds Kaveh Vahdat, founder and President at RiseOpp, a generative AI gaming company. “For many, the joy of playing on an original cabinet, with its chunky buttons and joystick, evokes a sense of authenticity that can't be replicated in today's ultra-realistic, digitally refined games.”
Even if you weren't a gaming fan as a kid, there's a lot aesthetically to appreciate about vintage arcade games.
“Vintage arcades from the '80s and '90s were art installations themselves,” says James Deighan, founder of gaming agency Mega Cat Studios. “You can’t help but look at the side of an Atari Centipede cabinet and not admire it. A full-size pinball machine from the mechanical era looks just as impressive in a game room as it plays.”
What's more, arcade machines actually aren't hard to find online, whether they're being sold by vintage hobby shops or collectors. Depending on the game's size, condition, rarity, and any warranties or shipping costs, they can typically range from $300 to $2,000. So, if you're looking to expand your game room or invest in a unique, interactive conversation piece for your basement, getting a vintage arcade game can be a great way to infuse playfulness and a unique design ethos into your space.
We talked to gaming-industry experts to learn what to know before you make that purchase. Here are their 13 tips for buying a vintage arcade machine for your home.
Look for Reputable Sellers
A vintage arcade game is not a purchase you want to make entirely sight unseen. For this reason, you'll want to seek out reputable sellers who can speak to its current condition with authority.
“I advise purchasing vintage arcade games from reputable sellers or dealers with a good track record,” says Wyland. “Purchases from e-commerce sites like eBay are risky. You must avoid buying from unknown sources or online auctions without verified seller ratings.”
This is especially important if you want to buy an original game, not a replica. Buying a rerelease of an older title can lead to many people overpaying for what they might think is an '80s original. An experienced seller can point out “original components, labels, and manufacturer markings” that contribute to the price tag. “Authenticity significantly affects the value and collectability of the game,” adds Wyland.
Plus, much like any other type of older electronic device, vintage arcade machines may have developed some wear and tear over time—or perhaps they've been completely refurbished. Sellers who know their stuff will be able to tell you exactly what you're paying for.
“Reputable dealers can provide a history of the machine, offer warranties, and ensure you’re not getting a counterfeit or poorly restored game,” says Adam Daywalker, founder of Recade.
Research the Game's Market Value
You'll quickly get sticker shock when researching arcade machine prices—and unless you've found a super rare Aztarac cabinet in perfect condition, these prices may be greatly inflated.
“Understanding the rarity of the machine can guide your purchasing decision. Limited-run titles or classic games in good condition can command high prices, making them a potential investment,” says Vahdat. “Checking online forums or retro gaming marketplaces can help you determine if the asking price is fair.”
Inspect the Condition
If you have the ability to buy the vintage arcade machine directly from a shop or seller in person, take your time examining the physical and working condition of the arcade cabinet.
“Look for damage, such as watermarks or cracks,” says Daywalker. “A well-maintained cabinet not only looks better but is more structurally sound. Inspect the artwork and ensure all buttons, joysticks, and lights work properly.”
Wyland echoes this advice, adding, “You must check the controls, sounds, and gameplay. Nonfunctional arcade games are expensive to repair, so verifying their operational status becomes essential.”
Check for Original Parts
Just as you wouldn't pay top dollar for a vintage Noguchi lamp without its authentic shade, you would expect to pay significantly less for a Street Fighter II cabinet that's had its panels completely replaced. Original parts add both value and authenticity to vintage arcade cabinets.
“Be wary of machines with replaced or emulated components, as these can reduce the collector's value,” says Vahdat. “If possible, ask for documentation on any repairs or replacements made to the machine to ensure transparency.”
Sort Out the Space Requirements
Small-space dwellers, good luck fitting a vintage arcade cabinet into your studio apartment—in many cases, these bulky units are over six feet tall and can weigh between 200 and 500 pounds. Just as you would with any other big-ticket piece of furniture, always measure first.
“It may sound silly, but a massive number of arcade purchases end up not fitting through entryways, door frames, and staircases leading to game rooms,” says Deighan. “Save yourself the heartbreak of your 8-player X-Men dream cabinet not making it out of the driveway.”
Another important factor not to overlook is to ask about the game's electrical requirements.
“Some older machines may need special outlets or voltage converters, especially if they are imported from abroad,” says Vahdat.
Make Sure You Love the Game
By now, you probably understand that buying a vintage arcade machine is not a purchase to take lightly. It can be a wish-come-true feature for passionate gamers who loved the title as a kid—or it can quickly become an expensive burden.
“If your dream cabinet is a Neo Geo Windjammers cabinet, you may not feel as satisfied picking up Capcom Bowling. If you’re choosing something from your wishlist, don’t shortchange yourself for a game that you aren’t in love with and don’t want to play,” says Deighan. “Between the size and cost, buyer remorse will become real if it’s not what you’ve dreamed of.”
You can get extra advice and support from retro gaming communities and forums. They are often passionate and helpful resources, so don’t be afraid to ask questions if you're considering a purchase.
“You can get valuable advice from experienced collectors and enthusiasts,” says Wyland. “They can offer insights into the best places to buy, how to maintain your games, and tips on avoiding common pitfalls.”
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