Best Arcade Machines in Australia

Arcade machines have always been a beloved part of entertainment culture, combining nostalgia with the thrill of competition. In Australia, the arcade scene is vibrant, featuring both classic machines and modern innovations. Whether you're a collector, a gaming enthusiast, or simply looking for the perfect addition to your game room, finding the best arcade machine can be a rewarding quest. This article delves into some of the top arcade machines available in Australia, highlighting their features, popularity, and where you can find them.

1. The Legend of Zelda: The Arcade Adventure

Overview: Combining the charm of classic Zelda with the excitement of arcade gaming, this machine is a hit for fans of the franchise. It features a beautifully designed cabinet with vibrant artwork and a large screen that immerses players in the adventure.

Features:

• Classic Zelda Gameplay: Enjoy iconic Zelda quests with enhanced graphics and sound.
• Multiplayer Mode: Play with friends or family for a cooperative experience.
• Custom Cabinet Design: Features artwork and details inspired by the Zelda series.

Popularity: Highly sought after by Zelda fans and collectors, this machine is often praised for its faithful recreation of the beloved game.

Availability: Available at specialty arcade retailers and online stores.

2. Street Fighter II: Championship Edition

Overview: Street Fighter II is a legendary arcade game that defined the fighting genre. The Championship Edition adds more characters and features, making it a classic choice for competitive play.

Features:

• Iconic Characters: Play as famous fighters like Ryu, Ken, and Chun-Li.
• Tournament Mode: Compete in tournaments or against friends.
• Authentic Cabinet: Classic arcade cabinet design with joystick and buttons.

Popularity: One of the most popular fighting games of all time, it remains a staple in arcades worldwide.

Availability: Often found in arcade game stores and online marketplaces.

3. Pac-Man: The Ultimate Edition

Overview: Pac-Man is an iconic game that has been entertaining players since the 1980s. The Ultimate Edition offers a modern twist on the classic gameplay, with new levels and features.

Features:

• Classic Gameplay with New Levels: Enjoy the familiar maze-chomping action with added challenges.
• Multiplayer Mode: Play with friends or family in cooperative or competitive modes.
• High-Quality Cabinet: Features a retro design with updated hardware.

Popularity: Pac-Man remains a timeless classic, loved by gamers of all ages.

Availability: Available through arcade machine retailers and online platforms.

4. Donkey Kong: Classic Edition

Overview: Donkey Kong is a quintessential arcade game that introduced the world to Mario. The Classic Edition offers a faithful reproduction of the original game with modern enhancements.

Features:

• Original Gameplay: Play through the classic levels with updated graphics and sound.
• Customizable Settings: Adjust difficulty and game speed to match your preference.
• Retro Cabinet Design: Authentic design with original artwork.

Popularity: A must-have for fans of classic arcade games and collectors.

Availability: Found in specialty arcade stores and online shops.

5. Marvel vs. Capcom 2: New Age of Heroes

Overview: This fighting game brings together characters from the Marvel universe and Capcom’s roster. The New Age of Heroes edition features enhanced graphics and new characters.

Features:

• Diverse Character Roster: Choose from a wide array of Marvel and Capcom characters.
• Team Battles: Form teams of three and engage in dynamic battles.
• Enhanced Graphics: Updated visuals and sound for a modern experience.

Popularity: A favorite among fighting game enthusiasts for its fast-paced and engaging combat.

Availability: Available from arcade game retailers and online.

6. NBA Jam: Tournament Edition

Overview: NBA Jam is a high-energy basketball game known for its over-the-top action and humor. The Tournament Edition includes additional teams and features for an even more exciting experience.

Features:

• Fast-Paced Basketball Action: Play with exaggerated moves and dunks.
• New Teams and Features: Updated teams and gameplay enhancements.
• Classic Arcade Cabinet: Features original artwork and controls.

Popularity: Loved for its fun and accessible gameplay, making it a hit at parties and gatherings.

Availability: Available from specialty retailers and online stores.

7. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in Time

Overview: This arcade game allows players to take on the role of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles as they battle through various levels to save the day. The Turtles in Time edition adds new levels and features to the classic game.

Features:

• Cooperative Play: Team up with friends to take down enemies.
• New Levels and Features: Enjoy enhanced gameplay with new challenges.
• Themed Cabinet Design: Features artwork and design inspired by the TMNT series.

Popularity: A favorite among fans of the TMNT franchise and beat-em-up games.

Availability: Available through arcade machine retailers and online.

8. Galaga: Anniversary Edition

Overview: Galaga is a classic space shooter that has been a favorite among arcade enthusiasts for decades. The Anniversary Edition brings updated graphics and additional features to the beloved game.

Features:

• Classic Gameplay: Enjoy the timeless space shooter action with improved visuals.
• New Levels and Challenges: Added content for a fresh experience.
• Retro-Inspired Cabinet: Features classic design elements with modern enhancements.

Popularity: A staple in arcades, beloved for its simple yet addictive gameplay.

Availability: Available from arcade machine suppliers and online.

9. Asteroids: Deluxe Edition

Overview: Asteroids is a classic arcade game known for its simple yet challenging gameplay. The Deluxe Edition adds new features and improved graphics to the original game.

Features:

• Original Gameplay with Enhancements: Classic asteroid-destroying action with updated visuals.
• New Game Modes: Additional modes for varied gameplay.
• Authentic Cabinet Design: Features a retro-inspired cabinet.

Popularity: A favorite among fans of classic arcade shooters.

Availability: Available through specialty arcade retailers and online platforms.

10. Mortal Kombat 11: Ultimate Edition

Overview: Mortal Kombat 11 is the latest installment in the popular fighting game series. The Ultimate Edition includes all downloadable content and additional features for an enhanced experience.

Features:

• Expanded Roster: Play with a wide range of characters from the Mortal Kombat universe.
• Enhanced Graphics and Sound: Updated visuals and audio for a modern experience.
• Customizable Settings: Adjust game settings to fit your preferences.

Popularity: A modern classic in the fighting game genre, popular among competitive players.

Availability: Found at arcade game stores and online marketplaces.

In summary, Australia offers a diverse range of arcade machines that cater to various tastes and preferences. Whether you're a fan of classic games or looking for the latest innovations, there's something for everyone. The above machines represent some of the best options available, providing hours of entertainment and nostalgia.