For a collector or gaming enthusiast like you, arcade game collecting may be as intimidating as it was when you were standing before those remarkable machines. The thrill and excitement that come from finding and owning your very own arcade cabinet or vintage game machine is unparalleled. It's like stepping into a time machine, reliving the golden age of gaming.
There is something magical about those arcade cabinets filled with pixelated adventures. Even just thinking about Donkey Kong or Pac-Man can transport you back to an era when money was plentiful, and hearts raced as we strove for high scores.
But why are these old-school classics still relevant in today's fast-paced digital world? Well, while modern consoles offer stunning graphics and immersive experiences, there's something special about getting your hands on, let's say, an original Space Invaders Classic Cabinet.
As artefacts that define pop culture history, arcade games are more than just collectibles; they're works of art. We can now preserve and recreate these gems from the past thanks to advancements in technology.
Does building your own 80s-style game room filled with iconic cabinets sound appealing to you? Here are five things you can expect along this thrilling journey into collecting classic arcade games.
The History of Arcade Games
To truly appreciate the world of arcade game collecting, let's take a quick trip down memory lane. Arcade games emerged in the 1970s when video games became increasingly popular. The first commercially successful coin-operated arcade game was "Pong" by Atari, which hit arcades in 1972 and ignited a craze that swept the globe.
It was then that arcade games evolved at an astonishing pace, bringing us timeless titles like Space Invaders, Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, and Asteroids. The games captured the hearts of people all over the world through their addictive gameplay and unique design in the late '70s and early '80s.
As technology advanced throughout subsequent decades - from pixelated graphics to stunning 3-D visuals - iconic franchises like Super Mario Bros., Street Fighter II, and Mortal Kombat took center stage.
Today's collectors are always on the hunt for those rare vintage gems that defined an era. Original cabinets featuring timeless classics such as Ms.Pac-Man or Galaga are highly sought after due to their historical significance in shaping pop culture.
Now that we have a brief understanding of how it all started, let's dig deeper into what you can expect when venturing into arcade game collecting!
5 Expectations of Arcade Games Collecting
A collector's passion is what drives them. Collecting arcades is about preserving a piece of gaming history and reliving the excitement of the past. The five expectations collectors should have when heading down this road are listed below.
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The Investment in Quality Will Cost More, but It Will Be Worthwhile
When it comes to collecting classic arcade games, one thing is for sure: quality comes at a price. You won't find any hidden treasures in gift boxes or stumble upon rare finds at garage sales. These timeless pieces of art can cost you thousands of dollars each.
Don't let that discourage you! Investing in quality will be worthwhile. Think of it as acquiring a piece of gaming history and owning a piece of pop culture nostalgia. You won't always find huge profit margins when playing these iconic games on authentic cabinets; you will get a lot of satisfaction from doing so.
Plus, who knows? Your collection could appreciate over time if you happen to snag a game that becomes highly sought after by collectors down the line.
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Their Value Exceeds Your First Estimation
You may be surprised by the value of arcade games if you think cheap. For example, an original Donkey Kong cabinet that might have been worth $200 in the 80s can now fetch thousands of dollars on the market if you think about it. Scarcity, collector demand, and nostalgia-driven enthusiasts all contribute to this increase in value.
One notable example is the iconic game "Pac-Man". Released in 1980, it quickly became a cultural phenomenon and continues to captivate fans worldwide. A rare Pac-Man machine sold at auction for over $80,000! So, don't underestimate the potential investment returns when stepping into this world of vintage gaming.
The key here is to do thorough research on prices and conditions before making any purchases or adding pieces to your collection.
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Their Value Increases with the Difficulty of Finding
Arcade game collections follow one rule: the more difficult it is to find, the more valuable it becomes. Scarcity drives up the price, just as in any collector's market. There are some classic games that have become extremely rare over time, which has made them highly sought after by collectors.
For example, imagine getting your hands on an original Donkey Kong cabinet from 1981. These machines are becoming increasingly difficult to find as they hold significant historical value in the gaming community. Their rarity alone adds tremendous worth to these iconic cabinets.
However, it's important to be cautious when purchasing classic arcade games that have seen re-releases or replicas made available later on.
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You Can Collect a Ton of Vintage Arcade Games
Collecting classic arcade games offers endless possibilities. You can expand your gaming history by digging deep into a sea of classic titles. From Pong and Asteroids to lesser-known gems, there is no end to the classic arcade games you can find.
While Donkey Kong and Space Invaders hold their value in the market, did you also know that there are hundreds of other games that may be even more valuable? It's all about knowing what makes a classic and doing your research before making a purchase.
Fortunately, we live in an age where information is just a click away. Resources abound online with guides on identifying rare and valuable arcade games. So strap on your collector's hat and start exploring this vast world of vintage treasures!
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You'll Own a Lot of Games
Get ready for a game room that will make every gaming enthusiast envious. As your collection of classic arcade games grows, so too does the excitement and enjoyment you bring into your own home.
You'll have an array of games at your fingertips to suit any mood or player preference. From thrilling shooters like "Asteroids" to beloved classics like "Super Mario Bros," you can curate a diverse collection that caters to everyone's nostalgia.
Imagine hosting friends and family for epic retro gaming nights where each person can find their favourite game from years gone by. It's not just about owning multiple machines; it's about creating an immersive experience in the comfort of your own space.
Conclusion
Arcade game collecting is a thrilling and rewarding journey. The joy of owning an original cabinet or vintage machine is unmatched, as each piece tells a story and holds immense value in 0.
Preserving these artefacts not only brings nostalgia but also ensures that future generations can experience the joy and wonder of the golden age of arcades. It's like curating your own personal time capsule filled with memories and excitement.
So why not explore this fascinating world? Start building your collection today by checking out Arcades Australia's wide selection of arcade systems, cabinets, and classic video game machines. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a newcomer, be ready for countless hours immersed in retro gaming bliss!
Remember: Don't let these gaming treasures become lost relics; they deserve to be cherished!