Arcade games are a big piece of nostalgia for many people. Whether you remember playing them in the local arcade or at home, there's something special about the arcade games of yesterday. While they may seem to be outdated, arcade machines are still collected by some people and businesses. Depending on the game, the condition, and the rarity of the arcade machine, the prices can be all over the place. In this blog post, we'll look at how expensive arcade machines can get and everything you need to know before buying one!
How Much Does an Arcade Machine Cost?
There are a few factors to consider before purchasing an arcade machine:
- The game
It should come as no surprise that the game that you intend to get will significantly affect the cost. The price of more popular games will be higher than that of less popular titles.
- The condition
If you want a machine that is in perfect shape, you should plan on spending more money on it than if you are willing to accept that it has a few nicks and scratches.
- The rarity
The fact that some computers are more difficult to reach than others contributes to the price increase. If you have specific equipment in mind, you should be prepared to spend a higher price on it.
Let's look at some actual costs now that we've covered the many aspects that play a role in determining the cost of an arcade machine. A few examples of popular arcade games, along with their respective prices, are as follows:
- NBA Jam: $3000 - $8000
- Street Fighter II: $2000 - $6000
- Donkey Kong: $1000 - $4000
- Ms. Pac-Man: $500 - $2000
As can be seen, the pricing is subject to a significant amount of variation depending on the game. If you have really specific equipment in mind, you should be prepared to spend a higher price on it. If, on the other hand, all you need is a rough estimate of how much money you'll need to buy an arcade machine, the prices listed above should serve as an excellent beginning point for you.
What additional costs are there?
There are a few more factors that you need to think about in addition to the expense of the machine by itself, and they include the following:
- Shipping
When you acquire a machine online, you will be responsible for paying the delivery costs. Depending on the dimensions and weight of the device being shipped, the cost of shipping may be rather high.
- Installation
You might have to hire someone else to set up an arcade machine for you if you've never done it before and don't know how to do it yourself.
- Maintenance
Arcade games, like any other type of machine, need to be maintained on a regular basis. You will need to include additional costs, such as those associated with repairs and replacement components.
Tips to be aware of
In light of the fact that you are now aware of how much an arcade machine costs, here are some pointers to keep in mind:
- Do some research
Make sure to complete your homework before making an arcade machine purchase. You don't want to wind up spending more than you have to because there are many variables that might impact the cost.
- Understanding what you're looking for
Know the games you want to play and the features you desire before you begin shopping for an arcade machine. You may then focus your search and discover the ideal machine for you.
- Be prepared to pay a premium
Be prepared to pay a little extra if you're seeking a particular game or a rare computer. The pricing listed above, however, should offer you a solid place to start if you're just searching for a broad notion of how much an arcade machine costs.