Top Arcade Games of 2020: A Comprehensive List

The year 2020 saw the arcade game industry deliver a variety of engaging titles, combining nostalgia with innovation. This list includes some of the most popular and critically acclaimed arcade games that kept fans entertained during a challenging year. Whether you're into retro experiences or fresh new challenges, these games provided something for everyone.

1. "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in Time Re-Shelled" (2020 Edition)

The re-release of this classic side-scrolling beat 'em up brought together new graphics with the iconic gameplay that fans loved. The cooperative play and iconic characters from the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles franchise made this title a fan favorite. Features:

• Upgraded graphics: Remastered HD visuals.
• Four-player co-op: Play with friends just like the original.
• Nostalgia-driven levels: The game preserves the original’s level design while offering new mechanics.

2. "House of the Dead: Scarlet Dawn"

A survival horror light gun shooter, "House of the Dead: Scarlet Dawn" revived the classic franchise with a modern arcade twist. Set in a haunted mansion, players battle against waves of undead creatures. Features:

• High-end graphics: Powered by Unreal Engine 4.
• Immersive environment: Includes vibrating seats, air blasts, and more.
• Engaging storyline: Continuation of the classic series with new characters.

3. "Cruis'n Blast"

Fans of racing games were thrilled with "Cruis'n Blast," a game that brought the excitement of over-the-top racing to arcades. The vibrant visuals, combined with thrilling tracks and vehicles, made it one of the standout releases in 2020. Features:

• 5 tracks: Including exotic locales and high-speed circuits.
• Over-the-top stunts: Cars performing crazy flips and tricks.
• Variety of vehicles: From classic cars to monster trucks.

4. "Mario Kart Arcade GP DX"

Although originally released in 2013, this title saw widespread attention in 2020 as arcade players revisited one of the best iterations in the Mario Kart series. With enhanced features like multi-player racing and customizable karts, it remained a staple in arcades. Features:

• Multiplayer action: Up to 4 players can compete.
• Character customization: Choose from a wide range of Nintendo characters.
• Classic Mario Kart feel: Features the power-ups and drifting mechanics the series is known for.

5. "Halo: Fireteam Raven"

Developed in collaboration with 343 Industries, "Halo: Fireteam Raven" offered fans of the iconic Halo series a unique arcade experience. Set in the Halo universe, this game blends first-person shooting with cooperative gameplay. Features:

• Large-screen action: Play on a giant 130-inch screen.
• 4-player co-op: Team up with friends to battle the Covenant.
• Rich Halo lore: Set during the events of the original Halo: Combat Evolved.

6. "Jurassic Park Arcade"

Dinosaur enthusiasts flocked to this title, which offers intense, on-rails shooting action as players fight their way through various Jurassic Park scenarios. Features:

• Stunning graphics: Realistic environments and detailed dinosaurs.
• Thrilling levels: From jungles to labs, escape the Jurassic Park facility.
• Variety of dinosaurs: Face off against velociraptors, T-rexes, and more.

7. "Ghostbusters" (2017 Arcade Edition)

The Ghostbusters arcade game re-emerged in popularity in 2020, offering exciting ghost-hunting action. Players equipped with proton packs team up to capture ghosts in an engaging, cooperative setting. Features:

• 4-player mode: Join forces with others to bust ghosts.
• Iconic equipment: Use the classic ghost traps and proton packs.
• Familiar faces: Meet iconic characters like Slimer.

8. "Space Invaders: Frenzy"

"Space Invaders: Frenzy" took the classic arcade game and transformed it into a fast-paced, visually striking experience. By blending the traditional gameplay of shooting aliens with modern graphics and interactive elements, this title kept the nostalgia alive while introducing a fresh twist. Features:

• Dual-gun shooting: Players can blast enemies with two guns.
• Massive LED screen: Immersive gameplay with vibrant visuals.
• Nostalgic feel: Retains the charm of the original while upgrading the experience.

9. "Luigi's Mansion Arcade"

This game offers a unique take on the haunted house genre, based on the popular Nintendo series. Using a special vacuum controller, players can capture ghosts in a spooky, yet fun environment. Features:

• Interactive controller: Use a vacuum-like device to capture ghosts.
• Haunted mansion setting: Explore eerie rooms filled with surprises.
• Multiplayer co-op: Team up with friends to clear out ghosts.

10. "Time Crisis 5"

The latest entry in the long-running Time Crisis series offers high-speed shooting action with pedal mechanics. Players can duck, dodge, and shoot in a dynamic environment, keeping the gameplay both exciting and challenging. Features:

• Dynamic cover system: Use foot pedals to take cover or switch positions.
• Branching paths: Multiple ways to progress through levels.
• Fast-paced shooting: Engage in high-octane battles against enemies.

2020 was a year that offered a wide range of arcade experiences, from racing to shooting to classic platformers. Despite challenges in the industry, these titles stood out for their ability to deliver engaging and memorable experiences in arcades around the world.