If you're an avid gamer, there's no better way to relive the golden age of gaming than by collecting old arcade games! Whether it's the classic Pac-Man or the more obscure Tempest, nothing beats the thrill of playing these retro games. But where do you start when it comes to collecting old arcade games? With this beginner's guide, you'll learn all the basics of collecting old arcade games, from how to find and identify games, to how to restore them and more! With the right knowledge and a little bit of time, you'll be well on your way to creating the ultimate arcade collection. So, read on to learn all you need to know about collecting old arcade games!
Understanding the Basics of Collecting Old Arcade Games
There are many reasons why people collect old arcade games. Some may be drawn to the technology and the history behind the games, while others may be interested in the artwork, or the creative aspect of designing their own arcade. Whatever the reason, collecting arcade games can be an exciting hobby, and the more you know, the more fun you'll have! When it comes to collecting old arcade games, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, arcade games are different to console games. While console games are usually controlled by a controller, arcade games are controlled by a dedicated cabinet, with buttons, joysticks, and even trackballs. Secondly, many of these arcade games are incredibly rare and expensive, meaning that you'll need to do your research if you want to find a good game at a good price!
Knowing What Games to Look for
There are many different types of old arcade games, each with their own unique gameplay, graphics and sounds. While there are many retro arcade games to choose from, there are also a few things to keep in mind when collecting arcade games. When choosing which games to collect, you'll want to keep in mind factors like the rarity of the game, the condition it's in, and the cost of restoration. You'll also want to think about the space you have available to store your games, and the types of games you enjoy playing the most. If you're just starting out, a good game to look for is Pac-Man. Pac-Man is widely considered to be the most popular game of all time, and as such, it's a great game to get started with. Another good game to collect is Ms. Pac-Man, which is an enhanced version of Pac-Man with extra gameplay modes, updated graphics, and a different soundtrack. Ms. Pac-Man is a great game to collect due to its popularity and the large number of different cabinets, which vary in rarity from extremely rare to common.
Finding and Identifying Games
Finding and identifying games can sometimes be tricky, especially if you're just starting out. You'll want to do your research and look for clues that may help you identify a game such as the type of cabinet, the artwork, or even the game's title and manufacturer. Finding and identifying games is often easier said than done, especially if you're collecting rare, obscure, or unique arcade games. While there are many retro arcade game collectors and forums online that you can use to find and identify games, it's best to do your research before you buy. Finding and identifying games can get even trickier if you're looking for more rare or obscure games. In this case, you'll either have to be extremely lucky and find a game in working order, or you'll have to be prepared to spend quite a bit of money to have it restored.
Buying Games
There are plenty of ways to find and buy arcade games, with the most obvious place being an online arcade forum or marketplace. If you don't already have a go-to forum, you can start by doing a quick Google search for "arcade collector forums," "eBay arcade seller," or "retro arcade seller." You can also check out retro gaming conventions and fairs, as well as vintage arcade expos, which often have arcade games for sale. There are also many different types of online auction sites and forums where you can buy old arcade games. Whether you're looking for a specific game or just browsing, keep in mind that buying an old arcade game is a lot like buying a used car. You never know what you're going to get, so it's best to do your research and check out a game before you buy it. There are a few things you'll want to look for when buying an old arcade game. Firstly, it's important to check the game is actually working. Secondly, you'll want to make sure the cabinet is in good condition. Finally, you'll want to check the game's artwork and cabinet are in good condition.
Restoring and Cleaning Games
Depending on the game, you may have to restore it before you can play it. Before you can play an old arcade game, you'll need to restore it. This can include things like cleaning the wiring, or rewiring the game, replacing or repairing the power supply, repairing the cabinet, and replacing parts as necessary. While not all old arcade games require restoration, many do, so it's important to know what you're getting into before you buy a game. Remember, even if a game has been restored, it doesn't mean it's in perfect condition. There are many things to consider when restoring an old arcade game, including the cost of parts, labour, and expertise required.
Building and Setting Up Your Arcade
Building and setting up your arcade is the fun part! There are plenty of ways to get creative with your arcade, but the most important thing is to have fun! Whether you want to use a table, a wall, or an old couch, there are many ways to set up your arcade. You can also use a table or wall arcade cabinet, or an old couch or chair to set up your arcade. If you're setting up a table or wall arcade cabinet, you'll need a surface that's sturdy, and about 1.5 feet deep and 3 feet wide. If you're using an old couch or chair to set up your arcade, you'll need a sturdy, clean surface to set it on. You can also use a table or wall cabinet to hold your arcade.
Storing and Maintaining Your Arcade
When it comes to storing your arcade, it's important to keep in mind the overall condition of your game. If a game is in great condition and you plan on keeping it, you can store it on a shelf or in a closet. If a game is in less than perfect condition, you can store it in a box or other type of container. There are a few things you should keep in mind when storing your arcade. Firstly, you'll want to keep your games away from excessive heat and humidity, as well as insects and rodents. Secondly, make sure you keep your games out of direct sunlight, as this can cause them to fade. Finally, make sure you keep your games away from moisture!
Joining Online Communities and Resources
If you want to get even more out of your arcade collecting hobby, we highly recommend joining an online arcade collecting community. Arcade collecting communities are a great way to meet new people and get advice from fellow collectors. There are a number of great arcade collecting communities you can join online, including our very own Retrogaming Times forum! If you're new to arcade collecting, joining a forum is a great way to get advice from more experienced collectors, as well as make some new friends. There are also a number of online resources you can use to learn more about collecting arcade games. There are countless articles, blogs, and websites that offer tips on collecting arcade games, including our very own blog! There are also many online forums and communities where you can ask questions and learn more.
Buying Accessories and Upgrades
There are a few different accessories and upgrades you can buy to enhance your arcade experience. Firstly, you can buy retro game controllers, such as original arcade game controllers and modern game controllers, which you can use to play games on your cabinet or arcade table. You can also enhance your arcade experience by buying retro game posters. Retro arcade game posters are a great way to decorate your room and add to the overall arcade experience! There are also a few different upgrades you can make to your arcade cabinet or table. Firstly, you can add an audio system, so you can play your games with sound or plug in your MP3 player. You can also add a computer to your arcade table or cabinet, which is a great way to
