Arcade1Up Reignites Retro Rivalries: Ms. Pac-Man Head-to-Head Arrives, Plus Classic Cabinet Deals

The pixelated gladiatorial arenas of yesteryear are making a triumphant return, not just in digital emulation, but in tangible, coin-slot-free form. Arcade1Up, the purveyor of home arcade nostalgia, is once again stirring the pot of retro gaming enthusiasm with a new, highly anticipated machine and a collection of enticing deals on some of its most iconic cabinets. For those who fondly recall the glow of CRT screens and the satisfying click of a joystick, the era of bringing the arcade home has never been more vibrant.

The Ultimate Face-Off: Ms. Pac-Man Head-to-Head Table

Forget the solitary pursuit of high scores; the new Arcade1Up Ms. Pac-Man Head-to-Head Arcade Table invites a direct challenge. This innovative design reorients the classic vertical screen to a horizontal plane, setting the stage for two players to engage in side-by-side, competitive action. It`s the kind of setup that fueled countless schoolyard debates and sibling rivalries, now perfectly replicated for your living room or dedicated game space. At a launch price of approximately $600, it’s a dedicated piece of interactive history.

Beyond its namesake, this head-to-head marvel isn`t a one-trick pony. It boasts a library of 12 classic titles, ensuring that your competitive spirit has ample grounds for expression:

• Ms. Pac-Man
• Dig Dug
• Galaxian
• Mappy
• Rolling Thunder
• Rompers
• Dig Dug 2
• Galaga
• Galaga ‘88
• Pacmania
• New Rally X
• Tower of Druaga

From the maze-chasing frenzy of Ms. Pac-Man and Pacmania to the subterranean digging of Dig Dug and the interstellar dogfights of Galaga, the selection is a curated journey through arcade gold. Arcade1Up has meticulously designed the table with vintage aesthetics, featuring illuminated controls that evoke the authentic arcade ambiance. A 17-inch LCD screen, durable joysticks, and a protective clear acrylic top ensure both a retro feel and modern resilience. It`s built not just for play, but for display, serving as a nostalgic centerpiece that sparks conversation and competitive urges.

Expanding the Home Arcade: Classic Cabinets on Sale

For those looking to populate their home arcade with a wider array of classics, Arcade1Up is also rolling out “Classic Special Edition” cabinets at an attractive price point of approximately $334 each. These include beloved renditions of Pac-Man, Ms. Pac-Man, and Mortal Kombat II. A small detail worth noting: these particular editions do not include a riser, standing at a more modest four feet. However, a riser can be purchased separately for around $59, allowing you to elevate your gaming experience – literally – to standard arcade height. Perhaps a gentle nudge for those who prefer to game standing, or a customizable option for the ergonomically-minded.

Each of these cabinets shares a robust technical foundation:

• A crisp 15.6-inch IPS color monitor, delivering vibrant visuals true to the originals.
• Dual speaker setups for authentic, booming arcade sound.
• Online connectivity, allowing players to climb leaderboards and, in supported titles, engage in multiplayer battles against enthusiasts worldwide.

The visual appeal is undeniable, with each cabinet wrapped in eye-catching artwork that makes it look as though it were transported directly from an 80s or 90s arcade floor. Durable controls, an anti-tip-over strap, and side panels to conceal screw holes round out a thoughtful design. While some assembly is required, the process is generally straightforward, transforming a weekend project into a portal to the past.

A Glimpse at the Included Games for Classic Cabinets:

Arcade1Up: Pac-Man Arcade Stand

• Dig Dug, Dig Dug 2, Galaga, Galaxian, Galaga `88, King & Balloon, Mappy, Pac-Man, Pac-Man Plus, Pac-Mania, Pac & Pal, Super Pac-Man, Rompers

Arcade1Up: Ms. Pac-Man Arcade Stand

• Dig Dug, Dig Dug 2, Galaxian, Galaga, Galaga ‘88, Mappy, Ms.Pac-Man, New Rally X, Pacmania, Rolling Thunder, Rompers, Tower of Druaga

Arcade1Up: Mortal Kombat 2 Arcade Stand

• Mortal Kombat, Mortal Kombat 2, Mortal Kombat 3, Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3, Rampage, Joust, Wizard of Wor, Gauntlet, Rootbeer Tapper, Defender, Bubbles, Paperboy, Klax

Compact Nostalgia: The Class of `81 Countercade

For those with less sprawling game rooms or a penchant for portability, the discontinued-but-resurrected Arcade1Up Class of `81 Countercade offers a delightful solution. This compact machine, priced around $167, is designed to sit comfortably on a desk or countertop, packing a punch without consuming significant floor space. It features a 7-inch, vertically oriented LCD screen, full-size controls, and charming artwork featuring Ms. Pac-Man and Galaga.

Pre-loaded with Ms. Pac-Man, Galaga, and Dig Dug, it’s a trifecta of arcade excellence in a small footprint. Its versatility is further enhanced by its power options: it can be run via an included Micro-USB cable or, for ultimate cable-free convenience, four AA batteries. It’s a testament to the idea that great things, and great games, can indeed come in smaller packages.

The Enduring Appeal of Retro Gaming

Arcade1Up continues to tap into a powerful vein of nostalgia, demonstrating that the appeal of these pixelated pioneers is far from diminished. In an era of hyper-realistic graphics and sprawling open worlds, there remains a distinct joy in the immediate, score-driven challenges of classic arcade games. These machines are more than just games; they are cultural artifacts, conversation starters, and an invitation to reconnect with the simpler, yet intensely competitive, roots of electronic entertainment. Whether you`re reliving childhood memories or introducing a new generation to the genesis of gaming, Arcade1Up`s latest offerings provide accessible and authentic avenues to that golden age.

Note: Prices and availability are subject to change. Always check the retailer for the most current information.