The Ultimate Guide to Building a Vertical Bartop Arcade: Step-by-Step Instructions and Tips

In recent years, retro gaming has experienced a significant resurgence, with many enthusiasts seeking to recreate the arcade experiences of the 80s and 90s. One of the most popular ways to do this is by building your own vertical bartop arcade machine. A vertical bartop arcade is a compact, space-saving unit designed to house classic arcade games that were originally played on vertically oriented screens. These machines are perfect for reliving the nostalgia of games like Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, and Galaga, right in the comfort of your own home.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about building your own vertical bartop arcade. From selecting the right materials and components to assembling and configuring your machine, this guide will provide you with the knowledge and confidence to create your very own retro gaming masterpiece.

Chapter 1: Planning Your Vertical Bartop Arcade

Before diving into the actual construction of your arcade machine, it's essential to start with proper planning. The planning phase will involve several key decisions that will influence the final design and functionality of your arcade.

1.1 Deciding on the Design and Dimensions

The first step in planning your bartop arcade is deciding on the overall design and dimensions. Vertical bartop arcades are typically designed to mimic the look and feel of classic arcade cabinets but in a more compact form. Consider how much space you have available and what style appeals to you the most. Do you want a sleek, modern look, or are you aiming for a more authentic retro aesthetic?

The typical dimensions for a vertical bartop arcade are around 18 to 24 inches wide, 18 inches deep, and 24 to 30 inches tall. However, these dimensions can be adjusted based on your specific needs and preferences.

1.2 Selecting the Right Materials

The materials you choose for your arcade cabinet will significantly affect its durability and appearance. Common materials include MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard), plywood, and acrylic. MDF is a popular choice due to its affordability and ease of cutting, while plywood offers a bit more durability. Acrylic is often used for decorative elements, such as a marquee or control panel overlay.

When selecting materials, also consider the weight of the finished arcade. Since bartop arcades are meant to be portable, using lightweight materials can make it easier to move the unit around.

1.3 Choosing the Hardware

The hardware components of your arcade machine will determine its performance and the games it can run. Key hardware components include:

• Monitor: A 4:3 aspect ratio monitor is ideal for a vertical bartop arcade, as it closely replicates the original arcade experience. A screen size between 17 and 19 inches is usually sufficient.

• Control Interface: Decide whether you want a single joystick with buttons or multiple control setups for two-player games. Consider using arcade-quality components for a more authentic feel.

• Computer/Emulator: Many builders opt to use a Raspberry Pi loaded with RetroPie as the brain of the arcade. This is a cost-effective and versatile option that supports a wide range of emulators. Alternatively, you could use a small form factor PC.

• Speakers: Good quality speakers will enhance your gaming experience. Consider placing them behind the marquee or at the sides of the monitor.

• Power Supply: Make sure you have an adequate power supply that can handle all your components, including the monitor, Raspberry Pi, and any additional lighting.

1.4 Software Considerations

Choosing the right software is crucial for the functionality of your arcade machine. RetroPie is one of the most popular options for running emulators on a Raspberry Pi. It supports a wide range of classic game systems and offers a user-friendly interface that can be customized to fit your arcade’s theme.

Additionally, you can explore front-end software options like EmulationStation or Attract-Mode, which allow you to organize and present your games in a visually appealing manner.

Chapter 2: Building the Vertical Bartop Arcade

Once you’ve completed the planning phase, it’s time to move on to the actual construction of your vertical bartop arcade. This chapter will guide you through each step, from cutting the materials to assembling the components.

2.1 Cutting and Preparing the Panels

Start by cutting the panels for your arcade cabinet. If you’re using MDF, a table saw or circular saw will make clean, precise cuts. Be sure to cut the following panels:

• Side Panels: These will form the sides of your arcade cabinet. Make sure to cut them identically to maintain symmetry.
• Top and Bottom Panels: These panels will connect the side panels and provide structural integrity.
• Control Panel: This is where you’ll mount the joystick(s) and buttons. It’s a good idea to angle the control panel slightly for comfort.
• Front and Back Panels: The front panel often includes a door or access panel, while the back panel typically features ventilation holes and space for cable management.

After cutting the panels, sand the edges to remove any rough spots. If you’re planning to paint or apply vinyl, now is a good time to prime the surfaces.

2.2 Assembling the Cabinet

With the panels prepared, you can begin assembling the cabinet. Start by attaching the top and bottom panels to one of the side panels. Use wood glue and screws to secure the joints. Next, attach the other side panel, followed by the front and back panels.

If you’re using a control panel that can be removed for maintenance, consider installing hinges or a latch system. Otherwise, attach the control panel securely, ensuring it’s positioned at a comfortable angle.

2.3 Installing the Monitor and Electronics

With the cabinet assembled, it’s time to install the monitor and electronics. Start by mounting the monitor inside the cabinet, making sure it’s securely fastened. Depending on your design, you may need to create a bezel to frame the monitor and hide any gaps.

Next, install the speakers, control interface, and Raspberry Pi or PC. Route the wiring carefully to avoid clutter and ensure proper ventilation. You may also want to install a fan to keep the electronics cool during extended gaming sessions.

2.4 Finishing Touches

With all the major components installed, it’s time to add the finishing touches to your arcade. This includes painting or applying vinyl decals to the cabinet, installing a marquee with backlighting, and adding any additional decorations like side art or a custom control panel overlay.

Chapter 3: Configuring and Testing Your Arcade

Once the physical build is complete, the final step is configuring the software and testing your arcade machine.

3.1 Setting Up the Software

Begin by installing RetroPie or your chosen emulator software on the Raspberry Pi or PC. Configure the controls, set up the display settings, and load your game ROMs. If you’re using a front-end like EmulationStation, spend some time customizing the interface to match the theme of your arcade.

3.2 Testing and Troubleshooting

With everything set up, it’s time to test your arcade. Power it on and play through a few games to ensure everything is functioning correctly. Check the controls for responsiveness, test the sound quality, and make sure the monitor displays correctly.

If you encounter any issues, such as unresponsive buttons or software glitches, troubleshoot by checking connections, reconfiguring settings, or consulting online forums for solutions.

Chapter 4: Enhancing and Customizing Your Vertical Bartop Arcade

Even after your arcade is fully functional, there are plenty of ways to enhance and customize it further. Here are some ideas:

4.1 Adding LED Lighting

LED lighting can add a dynamic visual element to your arcade. Consider installing LED strips along the edges of the control panel, around the marquee, or even behind the monitor. Many LED kits come with remote controls, allowing you to change the colors and effects.

4.2 Expanding Game Library

If you find yourself wanting more games, it’s easy to expand your library by adding new ROMs. Just make sure you own the original copies of the games to stay within legal boundaries.

4.3 Upgrading Controls

As you become more invested in your arcade, you might want to upgrade your controls. High-end joysticks, buttons with LED backlighting, and spinner or trackball controllers can all add to the experience.

4.4 Adding a Coin Door

For a touch of authenticity, consider adding a working coin door. You can set it up to accept coins or tokens, just like a real arcade machine. This can be a fun way to introduce a small challenge for players before they start a game.

Conclusion

Building a vertical bartop arcade is a rewarding project that combines woodworking, electronics, and software skills. Whether you’re a seasoned builder or a first-time hobbyist, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of the process, ensuring that you have all the information you need to create a personalized, nostalgic gaming experience.

As you embark on this project, remember that the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process. With a bit of patience and creativity, you’ll soon have a vertical bartop arcade that you can proudly display in your home, ready to bring back the excitement of classic arcade gaming for years to come.