Did you know that you can make your own arcade game within hours? This isn’t a complicated task and you will need basic tools, basic elements and your time. The main advantage here is the fact you can play all retro console games you like. To create this piece of art you will need to follow the steps below.
Items needed:
- Raspberry PI 3 kit
- Plexiglas panels (24x24x1.8 inches)
- TV LED with HDMI and 24 inches
- USB LED strip
- Power strip
- Micro SD card (8GB or more)
- Stick and button control panel
- Basic tools such as jigsaw, screwdrivers, and glue
Follow the steps below
1. Make the cabinet
The first thing you need to make is the cabinet. Using plywood is the best option. It is the most affordable and the easiest to use. There are a lot of 3D designs online or you can make your own. Using a simple 3D software, you can design your own cabinet and make it within minutes. Assembly all the parts and paint it.
2. Make graphics
Print the desired graphics and glue them on the sides of the cabinet. Add acrylic cover or Plexiglas to get the desired effect. Yes, you can print anything you like and you can cover them with a simple Plexiglas layer. Just make sure to cut it in specific and accurate dimensions and glue it only on the sides or even better, screw it all down.
3. Mount the TV
You will need a special shelf that makes the TV pop out from the cabinet. Use the Plexiglas and cut it in that way to make the bezels around the TV. Once done you need to end up with the same design as retro arcades have. They are actually made in the same way.
4. Mount control panel
The panel can be purchased entirely from various vendors or you can make your own one. Using Plexiglas, you will have to cut out the holes for the buttons and sticks and connect it to the cabinet as well. Screw it down and you are done with this step.
5. Connect and install LED strip
This is used for aesthetics only. You can install any LED strip in any way you like. It will be connected to the power supply and the power strip. Be creating and try to make the LED strip go all around the cabinet. This is a simple tip you can use to create an amazing effect and to get your arcade to look as realistic as possible.
6. Connect the Power strip
A power strip is a simple item that will allow you to start all the components with a single press of a button. This means that the arcade will work as one whole component.
Configure Raspberry-PI
1. Download RetroPI
You will need to use the Raspberry-PI and RetroPI. The RetroPI is an image that can be used with the Raspberry-PI operating system. Download it and mount it on the memory card.
2. Load the file
Load the file when booting and start downloading all the games you like. Place all of the developments in suitable folders and enjoy. Raspberry-PI supports all possible emulators so you won’t have a hard time finding the ones you need the most. Yes, some of you will encounter possible issues but this can be sorted out within seconds. You will need some time to make the system work properly.
3. Have a great time
Now you are done. All you should do now is play come of the most iconic games ever developed. There is no need to tell you that customization depends on your individual preference only. Make sure to add MAME games simply because they are the foundation of all arcades.
Conclusion
This is one of the simplest and the best methods you can use to make your own arcade. It is easier than it sounds and you can make anything you like. There are no main rules here so be free to experiment and find a variation that suits you the most. Keep in mind that you should also have a great time while making the arcade and while playing it afterward.
