Arcade Hardware
Purpose-built gaming machines
Arcade hardware evolved from discrete logic through custom boards to standardised platforms, always pushing graphical boundaries ahead of home systems.
Overview
Arcade machines ran on specialised hardware designed for specific games or game types. Early games used discrete logic circuits; later systems evolved into programmable boards. Manufacturers like Sega, Namco, and Capcom developed their own architectures. Arcade hardware consistently outperformed home systems, justifying the coin-op business model.
Fast facts
- Evolution: discrete logic → CPU-based → standardised platforms.
- Advantage: purpose-built, no cost constraint of home pricing.
- Manufacturers: Sega, Namco, Capcom, Konami, Taito, others.
- Lifespan: boards often used for multiple games.
- Modern: arcade-specific hardware largely replaced by PC-based systems.
Notable platforms
Key arcade hardware:
- Namco System 1/2: Pac-Land, Final Lap.
- Sega System 16: OutRun, Golden Axe.
- Capcom CPS: Street Fighter II.
- Sega Model 2: Virtua Fighter 2, Daytona USA.
- NAOMI: Sega’s Dreamcast-based board.
Hardware generations
Arcade technology progression:
- 1970s: discrete logic, simple CPUs.
- 1980s: custom sprite hardware, multiple CPUs.
- 1990s: 3D polygon hardware.
- 2000s+: PC-based with standard components.