Arcade1Up Joust: A Comprehensive Review and Analysis

The Arcade1Up Joust cabinet brings the nostalgia of the classic 1980s arcade game right into your home. For many gamers, Joust was a pivotal part of their childhoods, combining unique gameplay with a memorable aesthetic. In this review, we will explore the features, gameplay, and overall impact of the Arcade1Up Joust cabinet.

Introduction

Released by Williams Electronics in 1982, Joust is a side-scrolling arcade game that became an iconic title of its era. It was designed by John Newcomer and produced by the renowned developer, Eugene Jarvis. Joust tasks players with flying on ostriches and defeating enemies by colliding with them from a higher altitude. Its innovative gameplay and cooperative mode made it a standout in the arcade landscape.

Arcade1Up, known for their affordable and space-saving arcade cabinets, has introduced their version of Joust, which aims to capture the essence of the original while fitting seamlessly into modern homes. This review will delve into the specifics of the Arcade1Up Joust cabinet, including its design, features, and how well it replicates the classic arcade experience.

Design and Build Quality

The Arcade1Up Joust cabinet is designed to be a compact and user-friendly version of the original arcade machine. Standing at approximately 4 feet tall, it is significantly shorter than the full-sized arcade cabinets found in traditional arcades. This makes it suitable for home use without taking up too much space.

Cabinet Design

The design of the Arcade1Up Joust cabinet closely mirrors the classic machine, with vibrant artwork and a similar color scheme. The cabinet features the iconic Joust artwork, including the game's logo and images of the ostriches and knights. The control panel is adorned with the familiar joystick and button layout, ensuring that the visual experience is as authentic as possible.

Build Quality

Arcade1Up cabinets are generally well-regarded for their build quality, and the Joust cabinet is no exception. The cabinet is constructed from MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard), which provides a sturdy frame while keeping the overall weight manageable. The screen is a 17-inch LCD monitor, which is a modern upgrade from the original CRT screens used in arcades. While this does slightly alter the visual experience, it ensures that the game is crisp and clear.

Gameplay Experience

The gameplay experience on the Arcade1Up Joust cabinet is designed to closely mimic the original arcade game. The game features the same classic modes, including single-player and cooperative multiplayer options. Players control knights riding ostriches, using their jousting lances to defeat enemies and avoid obstacles.

Controls

The controls are a crucial aspect of any arcade game, and Arcade1Up has made efforts to preserve the authentic feel of the original Joust controls. The joystick is responsive, and the buttons are placed in a way that feels natural for gameplay. This setup allows for accurate and enjoyable play, staying true to the original arcade experience.

Graphics and Sound

One of the main differences between the original arcade game and the Arcade1Up version is the switch from CRT to LCD screens. While the LCD monitor provides a clearer and brighter image, it may lack the nostalgia of the old CRT screens. However, the LCD does offer sharper graphics and better contrast, which can enhance the overall gameplay experience.

The sound quality on the Arcade1Up Joust cabinet is another area of consideration. The cabinet includes built-in speakers that replicate the original game's sound effects and music. The audio quality is decent, though it may not fully capture the depth of sound found in the original arcade machine. Nevertheless, it is adequate for an immersive experience at home.

Additional Features

Arcade1Up cabinets often include additional features to enhance the gameplay experience. For the Joust cabinet, these features include a light-up marquee and adjustable volume control. The light-up marquee adds to the aesthetic appeal of the cabinet, while the adjustable volume control allows players to customize their audio experience.

Assembly and Setup

The Arcade1Up Joust cabinet comes partially assembled, with instructions included for the final assembly. The assembly process is relatively straightforward, with most parts fitting together easily. However, some users may require assistance to fully assemble the cabinet, especially if they are not familiar with assembling similar products.

Comparisons with Other Arcade1Up Cabinets

To understand where the Joust cabinet stands, it is helpful to compare it with other Arcade1Up offerings. Arcade1Up has released several classic arcade cabinets, including titles like Pac-Man, Street Fighter II, and Mortal Kombat. Each cabinet has its unique features and gameplay experiences, but the Joust cabinet is notable for its distinctive gameplay and cooperative mode.

Price and Value

The Arcade1Up Joust cabinet is priced in the mid-range of Arcade1Up's offerings. It offers a good balance between affordability and authenticity, making it a viable option for those looking to relive their arcade memories without breaking the bank. When considering the cost, it is important to weigh the features and build quality against the price.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Authentic Design: The cabinet closely replicates the look and feel of the original Joust arcade machine.
• Compact Size: Its smaller footprint makes it suitable for home use.
• Responsive Controls: The joystick and buttons provide a faithful arcade experience.
• Affordable Price: Offers good value for fans of the original game.

Cons:

• LCD Screen: While clearer, it may lack the nostalgia of the original CRT screen.
• Sound Quality: Built-in speakers are decent but not as high-fidelity as some might prefer.
• Assembly Required: Some users may find the assembly process challenging.

Conclusion

The Arcade1Up Joust cabinet is a commendable attempt to bring a beloved classic arcade game into the home environment. It captures the essence of Joust with its authentic design, responsive controls, and enjoyable gameplay. While there are some trade-offs, such as the transition from CRT to LCD screens and the quality of built-in speakers, the overall experience is positive.

For fans of Joust and collectors of arcade memorabilia, the Arcade1Up Joust cabinet represents a worthwhile investment. It offers an opportunity to relive the excitement of the original game in a convenient and accessible format. Whether you are a nostalgic gamer or a new player, the Arcade1Up Joust cabinet provides a fun and engaging way to experience this classic arcade game once again.