The short answer is yes, Quarter Arcades do indeed come with the complete, original arcade games, running on authentic ROMs through precise emulation. But there's much more to this story that every retro gaming enthusiast should know.
What Exactly Are Quarter Arcades?
Quarter Arcades, manufactured by Numskull Designs, are meticulously crafted 1/4 scale replicas of classic arcade machines from the golden age of gaming. Despite their compact size – typically measuring around 17" (44cm) in height, 6.5" (16.6cm) in width, and 8.8" (22.5cm) in depth – these miniature marvels pack the full punch of their full-sized counterparts.
The Original ROM Promise: 100% Authentic Gaming
The most impressive aspect of Quarter Arcades is their commitment to authenticity. Each cabinet uses the original arcade ROM on a bespoke emulator, providing 100% accurate emulation, Time Extension.
This means you're not getting a simplified version or a "lite" recreation – you're experiencing the exact same game code that powered the original arcade machines in the 1980s and beyond.
Technical Specifications That Matter
Each Quarter Arcade features:
- Original arcade ROM with complete game content
- Bespoke emulation system for 100% accuracy
- 5-inch full-colour TFT screen with proper resolution
- LED-lit marquee that illuminates just like the originals
- Authentic joysticks and buttons with proper tactile feedback
- Built-in rechargeable lithium battery for portable gaming
- 3W speakers delivering faithful audio reproduction
- Volume control and power management
- High score saving capability
Complete Games, Complete Experience
Gameplay Authenticity
According to detailed reviews from gaming experts, Quarter Arcades delivers gameplay that's largely spot-on. It allows players to use the same patterns and strategies that worked on original arcade machines. The emulation is so accurate that veteran players can employ their memorised high-score patterns from decades past.
What's Included in Each Game
Every Quarter Arcade includes:
- Complete original game content – all levels, characters, and features
- Original difficulty settings and progression
- Authentic sound effects and music
- Proper game physics and timing
- DIP switch access for various game settings (on select models)
- Credit system that mimics the original coin-operated experience
The Growing Library of Available Titles
The Quarter Arcade collection has expanded significantly since its inception, now including:
Bandai Classics
- Dig Dug
Taito Classics
- Space Invaders (with authentic Pepper's Ghost effect)
- Space Invaders Part II
- Bubble Bobble
- Elevator Action
- Zoo Keeper
Beat 'Em Up Legends
- Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1989)
- Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in Time
Data East Favourites
- BurgerTime
- Qix
Each title represents a complete, uncut version of the original arcade experience, licensed directly by copyright holders.
The Technical Challenge: Authenticity Meets Innovation
Creating these miniature marvels wasn't without challenges. Take Space Invaders, for example, which is one of the most technically demanding reproductions in the Quarter Arcade line. The original Space Invaders cabinet used a unique "Pepper's Ghost" optical effect, where the CRT screen displayed an upside-down, mirrored image that reflected off a sheet of glass to create a see-through effect with the background artwork.
Numskull's engineers had to overcome significant hurdles to recreate this effect using modern LCD technology, requiring multiple revisions to achieve the proper lighting and transparency effects that matched the original arcade experience.
More Than Just Games: Complete Collectables
Quarter Arcades go beyond just running original games – they're authentic collector's pieces that replicate every detail of the original cabinets:
Physical Authenticity
- Real wooden construction with proper weight and feel
- Accurate cabinet artwork provided by the original manufacturers
- Proper proportions at exactly 1/4 scale
- Metal hinges and hardware where appropriate
- Air vents and design details are faithful to the originals
Collector Features
- Limited edition numbering (some models limited to 10,000 units)
- Certificate of authenticity
- Commemorative coins (select editions)
- Premium packaging designed for collectors
Performance and User Experience
Real-world testing by gaming enthusiasts consistently shows that Quarter Arcades run absolutely perfectly with no performance issues Retro Dodo.
The emulation quality is so high that many users report being transported back to their arcade gaming youth, complete with authentic sounds, responsive controls, and proper game timing.
Battery Life and Portability
The built-in rechargeable lithium battery provides hours of gameplay, making these truly portable arcade experiences. The USB charging system ensures you can easily power up between gaming sessions.
Investment Value and Availability
Quarter Arcades represent significant value for retro gaming enthusiasts:
Pricing Considerations
- Premium build quality justifies the investment
- Authentic licensing ensures legal ownership of game content
- Limited production runs may increase collector value over time
- No ongoing costs – no need for quarters or tokens!
Where to Find Them
While many popular titles like the original Pac-Man and Galaga have sold out from initial retailers, they remain available through:
- Official Quarter Arcades website
- Licensed retailers like Just Geek
- Secondary markets (though prices may be elevated)
The Verdict: Complete Games, Complete Experience
Yes, Quarter Arcades absolutely come with the full original games. These aren't dumbed-down versions or "best of" compilations – they're complete, authentic recreations of classic arcade experiences, powered by the exact same code that made these games legendary.
Quarter Arcades represent the perfect solution for retro gaming enthusiasts who want the authentic arcade experience without the space requirements (or ongoing maintenance) of full-sized cabinets. You get complete games, authentic hardware feel, and the nostalgic joy of classic arcade gaming in a package that fits comfortably in any game room.
Whether you're reliving childhood memories or discovering these classics for the first time, Quarter Arcades deliver the complete, uncompromised gaming experience that made these titles legendary in the first place.
Looking to add authentic arcade gaming to your collection? Explore the full range of Quarter Arcades available at JustGeek.com and bring the golden age of gaming home.
