The demand for retro gaming experiences has been primarily fuelled by nostalgia among older gamers. Humans are sociable beings who flock to places like pubs and restaurants (and this is where the new league of arcade games are often found), even when it’s not in our best interests. This demonstrates the long-term requirement for social experiences as provided by arcade games.
Quick History
Forty years ago, arcade gaming was a huge industry, grossing billions of dollars each year. From grocery stores to malls, video gaming cabinets began to appear everywhere. Despite many of the games of the time being available on home consoles, the best experience was had on the arcade games where it was bigger and better.
Home consoles are one of many factors that started the wane of the popularity of arcades. In addition, the market was swamped with low-quality games. The more advanced games obviously cost more, meaning that casual players found them increasingly inaccessible, while diehards saw their wallets bleed. The games became increasingly unprofitable for business owners as well. There was also the anti-videogame hysteria from parents and politicians that affected sales.
Evolve or Die
Arcade games were forced to evolve with the times. Certain games offered 10-player options which allowed for a unique social experience that could not be duplicated at home. Arcades can also provide a party atmosphere when paired with non-video game amusements.
The fusion of the classic arcade with bars is another evolution of the arcade. The older generation in their 40s and 50s remember the old games and are excited to play them again. However, that generation does not go out as much as they used to, so the younger people are playing these “retro” games for the first time in the way they were meant to be played. This provides a hands-on experience that is different from what you can find online.
Because of the popularity of retro games, online slot designers have modernised these old-school arcade idiosyncrasies. A slew of new retro-themed classic slots are now available to play online for a whole new generation. One of the best benefits you can get with online gaming is a no deposit bonus. With this no deposit bonus in Canada, players can make the most of their online experience where just for signing up, you can get free spins, poker chips, bonus money, VIP privileges, or even real money! Retro arcade game style games are very popular if a night on the town is not on the cards.
Arcades have also moved from utilising coins as credits to employing smart cards that store credits as virtual cash. The arcade games can be connected to the internet, allowing users to play online with other players and preserve their progress, unlockable content, and credits, which can then be accessed using a smart card.
The Reality
Arcade gaming has grown and survived by capitalising on the social experience. However, as time passes, these games have gotten more difficult to locate and much more difficult to repair. Much of the technology used in arcade gaming cabinets have since become obsolete. Owners have had to come up with inventive ways to keep their machines alive, with some using 3D printers to replicate old parts.
Arcade games have not yet been consigned to the annals of gaming history thanks to the younger audience discovering vintage titles online and the older gamers’ nostalgia.
