Arcade games draw the attention of fanatics and newbies alike. In 2022, we can see arcades like Dave and Buster’s for teens and adults or Chuck E. Cheese for the younger crowd. We all know that arcades didn’t begin with these franchises, but we may not all know their origins. Keep reading for a brief history of arcade games.
Brief History of Arcade Games
When Was the First Arcade Game Made?
To be considered an arcade game, a game is coin-operated. Once you drop a coin into the machine, it allows you to begin playing. The beginning of arcade games can be traced back to as early as the late 1930s with coin-operated pinball machines. From there, arcade gaming was on the rise!
The Rise of Arcade Games
More face-paced and goal-oriented games were created beginning in 1971 with the first commercially available video game, Computer Space. This game was designed to be a commercial version of the 1962 minicomputer game Spacewar! The arcade game Galaxy Game is another video game based on Spacewar!, also released in 1971. The commonly known arcade game Space Invaders was created by Taito in 1978 and is one of the earliest shooter games, making it unique and extremely popular. One of the most famous arcade games, Pac-Man was created by Namco in 1980. Pac-Man established the maze chase genre of games and introduced many in-game features like mascot characters, power-ups, and cut scenes. The iconic history continues with the creation of classics like Frogger, Donkey Kong, and Mortal Kombat.
It’s true that the world as we know it would not be the same without the invention of arcade games. The face-paced gameplay has become something we love. It keeps us on our feet and allows us to challenge friends in games with multi-player versions. Nothing feels better than beating your friends or seeing your name on the high-score list. While classic arcades may no longer be as present, you are still able to experience these classics through arcade game rentals.
Why Rent Arcades Games?
While you may want to rent an arcade game, you also may not think you have the right occasion to do so. At Snap Entertainment, we’re here to tell you that you don’t need to wait for the right occasion. We have rented arcade games for birthday parties, bat mitzvahs, weddings, and more. Some clients have even hosted an arcade-themed event which we think is the perfect way to create the perfect occasion to play!
Host a Retro Arcade Game Event
If you got excited seeing the classic names of arcade games throughout the brief history, we know you’ll love our retro arcade game rentals. We offer many retro arcade games, including the previously mentioned classics Space Invaders, Pac-Man, Frogger, and Donkey Kong. Don’t let the fun end there! Check out all of the retro arcade game rentals we have.
Elevate Your Next Event
Make your next event one to remember with the unique aspect of an arcade game rental. Your guests will be talking about your event for weeks to come. Keep guests entertained with multi-player games like 4 In A Row, Arcade Hoops, or Cruis’n Blast. Get everyone active with our Golf Simulator or Speed Pitch Challenge. We have an arcade game for everyone!
Learn More About Arcade Rental in the Maryland, D.C., or Virginia Area
The arcade games mentioned in this blog are just some of the many arcade game rentals we have to offer. If you have an upcoming event and are interested in arcade game rental, click here or call (240)386-8042 to get started!
