I have gotten some time in with the line of Arcade1UP games before; at launch, I was able to check out the Rampage cabinet at great length. Despite some slight emulation issues (mainly with Gauntlet) and sizing problems (three large people on one small arcade cabinet can be tough), it turned out to be a fun alternative to owning the real deal.
Shortly afterward, I got around to their Galaga cabinet. With that game, the title count is fewer (there’s only two, Galaga and Galaxian), and the controls are a bit more limited than the original release. Yet, it was closer to the feeling of owning an arcade machine without many compromises.
However, with my third go-around with Arcade1UP and their Final Fight machine, I feel like the team is really coming through on the design of this line-up. There are some mild things to be sure, but overall, this feels like the closest representation to an arcade machine thus far – especially if you’re a die-hard Capcom fan.
Let’s take a close look at the four games that are included here, then look at the overall machine:
Final Fight
This is unquestionably a genre-defining game when it comes to beat-em-ups. Players have a selection of three fighters as they go up against the Mad Gear Gang, who will stop at nothing to try to take over the city. The brawling mechanics are still fun, even if the odds can be a little overwhelming at times.
That’s a good reason to call in a buddy for co-op, which the cabinet supports.
1944: The Loop Master
This is a shocking choice for this machine, because this is easily the least popular of the 19XX games available. Although it ends up being a solid addition to the lineup, as fans can rediscover a terrific entry with lots of shooting options, memorable bosses and more. Once again, players can call upon a friend for co-op shenanigans.
Strider
An all-out classic! I’m thrilled to finally call this game mine. While the design is a bit simplistic compared to Capcom’s other in-depth games for the time, it’s still a blast with a lot of considerably awesome moments, like running down a hillside covered with mines and taking on a huge reactor while spinning around it.
Ghosts ‘n Goblins
Another favorite from the “good ol’” days of the company’s history, this is probably the most challenging GNG game out there. Difficulty aside, it’s a hit with me. Players don the mantle of Arthur the knight to venture through a demon-filled world – twice – in an effort to save the princess.
Bring your A-game for this one though because otherwise you’ll be handed your ass.
The Cabinet Itself
The general design of the Arcade1UP machine is rather cool, and it’s somewhat easy to assemble with the help of a screwdriver. I say somewhat because the smaller screws can be a real pain, particularly when it comes to tightening the screen onto the cabinet itself, as well as the back portion of the machine. It would’ve been nice to have some larger screws in that regard. Otherwise, I was able to put it together within a couple of hours, which isn’t too bad. It can go quicker with a friend helping out.
As for the feel of the cabinet, it’s rather nice. The buttons and joysticks react accordingly and even have that “clicky clacky” quality we’ve come to expect from Capcom’s machines of old. On top of that, the monitor size is just about right, and each of the games look pretty true to their arcade counterparts.
That said, the machine is rather small. If you just buy the base model, you’ll want to make sure to have a stool to sit on, or you may end up hunched over the unit. Otherwise, you can purchase a riser for an additional $40 and it’ll be a much more comfortable height for most players.
For $300, this Arcade1UP Final Fight machine is as close to the real deal as you can get without breaking your wallet. Height and construction issues aside, it feels outstanding; and the build quality is much nicer than their previous games. The title selection is also an instant standout for Capcom fans.
Sure, Alien vs. Predator would’ve been nice, but we’ll definitely take this four pack.
There are other games offered in the collection that aren’t too shabby – Mortal Kombat definitely comes to mind – but if it’s old-school fun you’re looking for, this arcade cabinet has a lot of fight in it.
For more information on the Arcade1UP line of arcade cabinets, check out their official website.
