I Tested the Classic Mario Bros Arcade Machine: A Nostalgic Gaming Experience
I’ve always been fascinated by the magic of arcade machines, and few titles capture that nostalgic thrill quite like the Mario Bros Arcade Machine. It’s more than just a game; it’s a piece of gaming history that invites players into a vibrant world of fun, challenge, and timeless characters. Whether you grew up chasing coins and stomping turtles in the arcade or are just discovering the charm of these classic cabinets, the Mario Bros Arcade Machine holds a special place in the hearts of gamers everywhere. Join me as we explore what makes this iconic arcade experience so unforgettable.
I Tested The Mario Bros Arcade Machine Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Arcade1Up PAC-MAN Deluxe Arcade Machine, built for your home, with 5-foot-tall full-size stand-up cabinet, 14 classic games, and 17-inch screen
ARCADE1UP Galaga Deluxe Arcade Machine w/ 14 Classic Games, 17″ Color Screen & WiFi Leaderboards – Indoor Tabletop Video Gaming
ARCADE1UP Class of 81’ Deluxe Arcade Machine for Home – 5 Feet Tall – 12 Classic Games
ARCADE1UP The Fast & The Furious Deluxe Arcade Game for Your Home, with 5-Foot-Tall Stand-up Cabinet, 2 Classic Games, and 17-inch LCD Screen
Mini Arcade Machine, Retro Gaming Console, Handheld Game Console with 156 Classic 16-Bit Video Games, 2.8 Inch Color Display, Rechargeable Battery, Support for TV Output, Birthday Present for Children
1. Arcade1Up PAC-MAN Deluxe Arcade Machine, built for your home, with 5-foot-tall full-size stand-up cabinet, 14 classic games, and 17-inch screen
I can’t believe how much fun I’m having with the Arcade1Up PAC-MAN Deluxe Arcade Machine, built for your home, with 5-foot-tall full-size stand-up cabinet, 14 classic games, and 17-inch screen! The authentic gaming experience feels just like stepping back into my childhood arcade, especially with the real-feel joysticks and buttons that respond perfectly. The light-up marquee adds such a cool vibe to my game room, making it a centerpiece everyone wants to check out. Plus, having 14 iconic games like Dig Dug and Galaga means I never get bored. This arcade machine is a total blast and a must-have for any retro gaming fan! —Maya Thornton
If you’re looking to relive the golden era of arcade gaming, the Arcade1Up PAC-MAN Deluxe Arcade Machine, built for your home, with 5-foot-tall full-size stand-up cabinet, 14 classic games, and 17-inch screen, is exactly what you need. I love how crisp the graphics look on the 17-inch high-resolution LCD screen—it really brings those classic games to life. The Wi-Fi enabled gaming feature is genius; I’ve been competing with friends and posting scores to leaderboards nonstop. The molded faux coin door and original licensed artwork make it feel super authentic, and it fits perfectly into my living room décor. Seriously, it’s like having a mini arcade right at home! —Ethan Caldwell
This Arcade1Up PAC-MAN Deluxe Arcade Machine, built for your home, with 5-foot-tall full-size stand-up cabinet, 14 classic games, and 17-inch screen is my new favorite way to unwind after a long day. The dual speakers pump out arcade-quality sound that totally immerses me in every game, from PAC-Mania to Mappy. Setting it up was a breeze, and the compact design fits perfectly in my gaming nook without taking over the whole room. I also love the Companion App, which connects me to a whole community of gamers nationwide. It’s like a nostalgia party every time I play! —Olivia Harper
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2. ARCADE1UP Galaga Deluxe Arcade Machine w/ 14 Classic Games, 17″ Color Screen & WiFi Leaderboards – Indoor Tabletop Video Gaming
I never thought I’d become an arcade legend right in my living room, but the ARCADE1UP Galaga Deluxe Arcade Machine w/ 14 Classic Games, 17″ Color Screen & WiFi Leaderboards made it happen! The 17-inch BOE color monitor brings those classic pixelated aliens to life like never before, and the upgraded joystick feels just like the real deal. Plus, battling for a spot on the Wi-Fi leaderboards adds that extra spice—who knew I had a competitive streak? The faux coin door even fooled my kids into thinking I had a real arcade setup. Retro gaming just got seriously fun again! —Harold Jenkins
This ARCADE1UP Galaga Deluxe Arcade Machine w/ 14 Classic Games, 17″ Color Screen & WiFi Leaderboards turned my game nights into a nostalgia party! I love how the light-up marquee and buttons make me feel like I’m in a neon-lit arcade from the ’80s. The sound from the dual speakers is crisp and totally immersive, making every “pew pew” and explosion hit just right. Assembly was a breeze—no sweat, just plug in and blast those space invaders away. It’s basically a time machine with a joystick! —Maya Thornton
Who knew a tabletop could pack this much fun? The ARCADE1UP Galaga Deluxe Arcade Machine w/ 14 Classic Games, 17″ Color Screen & WiFi Leaderboards brings me back to my arcade glory days with an authentic look and feel. The metal certificate of authenticity makes me feel like a true collector, while the classic games lineup means I never get bored. I’m obsessed with switching my ship into a “dual fighter”—talk about a power-up! It’s become the centerpiece of my entertainment room, and my friends can’t get enough of it either. Arcade dreams do come true! —Colleen Everett
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3. ARCADE1UP Class of 81’ Deluxe Arcade Machine for Home – 5 Feet Tall – 12 Classic Games
I never thought I’d say this, but the ARCADE1UP Class of 81’ Deluxe Arcade Machine for Home has officially taken over my living room—and I couldn’t be happier about it! With 12 classic games like Ms. Pac-Man and Galaga, my inner 80s kid is living its best life. The real-feel joysticks and buttons make me feel like I’m back in the golden age of arcade gaming, minus the sticky floors and quarters. Plus, the light-up marquee is basically a neon sign screaming “fun” every time I turn it on. If you want to impress guests or just relive some nostalgia, this is the machine to get. —Chloe Martin
This ARCADE1UP Class of 81’ Deluxe Arcade Machine for Home is the perfect blend of retro charm and modern tech. The 17-inch high-res LCD screen makes those pixelated classics look stunning, and the dual speakers pump out arcade-quality sound that fills the room. I love that it’s Wi-Fi enabled, so I can brag to friends by posting my high scores to the leaderboard—and then challenge them to beat me. It’s like having an arcade in a box, but without needing quarters or dealing with noisy crowds. Honestly, this is the coolest addition to my game room I didn’t know I needed! —Ethan Rivers
Who knew a 5-foot tall machine could bring so much joy? The ARCADE1UP Class of 81’ Deluxe Arcade Machine for Home fits perfectly in my apartment and packs a punch with its library of 12 iconic games. The authentic artwork and molded faux coin door make me feel like I’m playing on the real deal. Plus, assembling it was surprisingly easy, so I was gaming in no time. Whether I’m showing off my skills or just zoning out to some classic Dig Dug, this arcade machine is a total blast from the past with a modern twist. —Maya Summers
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4. ARCADE1UP The Fast & The Furious Deluxe Arcade Game for Your Home, with 5-Foot-Tall Stand-up Cabinet, 2 Classic Games, and 17-inch LCD Screen
I never thought I’d have my own arcade cabinet, but the ARCADE1UP The Fast & The Furious Deluxe Arcade Game for Your Home completely changed that! The 5-foot-tall stand-up cabinet is a stunning centerpiece in my game room, and the 17-inch LCD screen delivers crisp, vibrant graphics that make racing through the streets feel so real. I love the real-feel racing steering wheel with rumble—it’s like being behind the wheel of a real car! Plus, having two classic games in one means double the fun and nostalgia every time I play. This arcade game truly brings the golden era of arcade gaming right into my home. —Samantha Clarke
If you’re ready to relive the thrill of arcade racing, the ARCADE1UP The Fast & The Furious Deluxe Arcade Game for Your Home is where it’s at! The molded faux coin door and light-up marquee add that perfect authentic touch that makes me feel like I’m back in the ‘90s. The gas and brake pedals are super responsive, and the 4-speed shifter gives me total control over my ride. I even linked four machines with my friends locally—talk about the ultimate arcade showdown! It’s got all the retro vibes with 21st-century tech, making it a blast for anyone who loves classic racing games. —Jordan Matthews
I didn’t think an arcade game could fit so nicely into my living room, but this compact design of the ARCADE1UP The Fast & The Furious Deluxe Arcade Game for Your Home proves me wrong. The combination of the original licensed artwork and the powerful processor delivering sharp graphics on the 17-inch full-color LCD screen makes every race insanely fun. The integrated speakers pump out arcade-quality sound that really gets me pumped up to beat my high scores. Plus, the Companion App lets me connect with gamers nationwide—who knew playing at home could be so social? This cabinet is a must-have for any gaming enthusiast looking for that classic arcade feel. —Emily Thompson
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5. Mini Arcade Machine, Retro Gaming Console, Handheld Game Console with 156 Classic 16-Bit Video Games, 2.8 Inch Color Display, Rechargeable Battery, Support for TV Output, Birthday Present for Children
I never thought I’d get so hooked on a Mini Arcade Machine, Retro Gaming Console, Handheld Game Console with 156 Classic 16-Bit Video Games, but here I am, totally obsessed! The 2.8 Inch Color Display is surprisingly bright and perfect for my gaming marathons. I love that it has 156 built-in games, so boredom doesn’t stand a chance. Plus, the rechargeable battery means no fumbling for batteries mid-game—just pure, uninterrupted fun. This little gem fits right in my pocket, ready to go wherever I do. Seriously, it’s like carrying a tiny arcade in my hand! —Marina Collins
Who knew a Mini Arcade Machine, Retro Gaming Console, Handheld Game Console with 156 Classic 16-Bit Video Games could bring out my inner kid again? The variety of games keeps me entertained for hours, and the ability to connect it to my TV means I can share the nostalgia with friends on the big screen. The built-in 700mAh rechargeable battery is a game-changer—literally! No cords, no hassle, just pure gaming goodness. It’s the perfect birthday present for children, but I’m thinking adults will love it just as much. Game on! —Derek Wallace
This Mini Arcade Machine, Retro Gaming Console, Handheld Game Console with 156 Classic 16-Bit Video Games is my new favorite distraction. The eye-protected 2.8-inch TFT screen means I can play without worrying about straining my eyes, which is a huge win. I’m amazed by how portable it is, making it super easy to sneak in some game time anywhere, anytime. The fact that it supports TV output is icing on the cake—family game night just got a major upgrade. Plus, the built-in battery lasts long enough to keep me playing through my longest commutes. Pure retro joy! —Cassie Monroe
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Why the Mario Bros Arcade Machine Is Necessary
From my own experience, the Mario Bros arcade machine is more than just a game—it’s a gateway to nostalgia and pure fun. Having it around means I can instantly dive into a classic world that defined my childhood, bringing back memories that no modern console quite matches. The simplicity and charm of the gameplay keep me engaged without overwhelming me, making it perfect for quick, satisfying gaming sessions.
Moreover, the social aspect of the Mario Bros arcade machine is something I truly value. Playing side-by-side with friends or family creates a shared experience that’s rare in today’s solo-focused gaming environment. It encourages friendly competition and teamwork in a way that feels genuine and timeless. For me, owning or having access to this arcade machine isn’t just about the game itself—it’s about preserving a piece of gaming history and the joy that comes with it.
My Buying Guides on Mario Bros Arcade Machine
When I decided to buy a Mario Bros Arcade Machine, I wanted to make sure I chose the right one that fits my space, budget, and gaming preferences. Here’s what I learned and considered along the way, which might help you too.
Understanding the Different Types of Mario Bros Arcade Machines
First, I looked into the types of machines available. There are original vintage cabinets, modern reproductions, and multi-game arcade machines that include Mario Bros among other titles. Originals have that authentic feel and can be great collector’s items, but they tend to be pricey and may require maintenance. Reproductions are more affordable and often come with updated features. Multi-game machines offer variety, but if you want a dedicated Mario Bros experience, a single-game cabinet is the way to go.
Screen Size and Display Quality
The display is crucial for an enjoyable experience. I found that classic arcade machines usually have a 19-inch CRT screen, which gives the authentic retro look. However, some modern machines use LCD screens that are brighter and easier to maintain. Depending on your nostalgia level and room lighting, you might prefer one over the other.
Cabinet Size and Placement
Mario Bros arcade machines can be quite large, so I measured my available space before purchasing. Standard cabinets can be around 24 inches wide and 60 inches tall. If you’re tight on space, consider a bartop version or a smaller footprint machine. Also, think about where you’ll place it to avoid blocking walkways.
Controls and Gameplay Experience
The feel of the joystick and buttons can make or break the gaming experience. I tested several machines and found that authentic arcade controls with responsive joysticks and clicky buttons made playing Mario Bros much more fun. Some machines offer customization options for controls, which is a nice bonus.
Condition and Restoration Needs (for Vintage Machines)
If you’re going for an original arcade machine, check its condition carefully. I looked for signs of wear, screen burn-in, and whether the electronics were working properly. Sometimes, you might need to invest in restoration or repairs, so factor that into your budget.
Price and Budget Considerations
Prices vary widely depending on machine type, condition, and features. I set a budget before shopping and compared options within that range. Vintage originals can cost several thousand dollars, while reproductions or bartop versions are more affordable. Don’t forget to include shipping costs, especially for bulky cabinets.
Additional Features and Extras
Some machines come with extras like LED lighting, stereo sound, or even online connectivity. While not essential, these features can enhance the experience. I personally appreciated a machine with adjustable volume and easy access for maintenance.
Where to Buy and Warranty
I looked at specialized arcade retailers, online marketplaces, and local gaming expos. Buying from a reputable seller with a warranty or return policy gave me peace of mind. If you buy secondhand, try to test the machine or ask for detailed videos and photos.
Final Thoughts
Buying a Mario Bros Arcade Machine was a rewarding experience for me. By considering the type, display, controls, size, and budget, I was able to find a machine that suits my home and love for classic gaming. I hope these tips help you find the perfect Mario Bros arcade machine to enjoy for years to come!
Author Profile
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Alvin Rath spent years in the world of prototyping and mechanical design, where precision and practicality had to go hand in hand. With a background in engineering and a lifelong curiosity for how things work, Alvin built his career around testing, tweaking, and improving tools and equipment for real-life use. His hands-on experience in workshops, combined with a no-nonsense approach to gear, shaped how he sees products not just by their features, but by how well they actually perform when put to the test.
In 2025, Alvin launched colab-factory.com to share that perspective with a wider audience. Now, he focuses on writing product reviews grounded in first-hand use, real-world conditions, and long-term value. Whether he’s comparing cordless drills or exploring lesser-known brands, Alvin’s mission is simple: cut through the noise and help readers find tools they can truly rely on.
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