The Origin and Evolution of Arcade Games: From Penny Arcades to Modern Times

@arcade

arcade (ɑked)

Noun

A covered passage with arches along one or both sides. Short for amusement arcade.

The term arcade has an interesting etymology and fascinating history, especially in the context of gaming. The connection to gaming comes from the early 20th century when amusement arcades began to emerge. These establishments featured various entertainment options including games, slot machines, and other attractions often housed in spaces that were designed with arches or similar architectural elements.

Etymology of Arcade

The word “arcade” comes from the 17th Century, originally a French word describing “a succession of arches.” The term “penny arcade,” or any coin-operated machine that used pennies, coined the modern sense of the word “arcade” in the context of arcade games, which were mostly coin-operated cabinets in the early 20th Century.

Arcade as a Place

Arcade can refer to an amusement arcade or video arcade. These establishments are places where people can go to play all types of games, including video games and merchandising games such as claw machines. In some states, arcades can even offer slot machines and other gambling devices.

The Penny Arcade

The term “penny arcade” originated to describe arcades with games that took pennies as payment. These games were forms of entertainment in various establishments. Some popular penny arcade games include bagatelles, pinball machines, fortune-telling machines, slot machines, and peep show machines. These games were popular not only in arcades but also in other venues like bowling alleys and bars.

The Modern Arcade

The development of the CPU in the late 1970s led to the rise of video games in arcades. This period saw the popularity of games like Space Invaders, Galaxian, Pac Man, and Centipede. The simple and straightforward gameplay of arcade games contributed to their enduring popularity.

The Golden Age of Arcade Games

The peak of arcade game popularity came in the 1980s. This era was marked by the increased popularity of color games and the ability to find games in unexpected places like bowling alleys and bars. The arcading industry reached critical mass, and arcades began popping up all over the country. Between 1982 and 1989, the number of arcades in the U.S. doubled to 13,000, demonstrating the industry's growth and significance.

The Decline of the Arcade Industry

The arcade industry experienced a significant decline in the early 1990s, attributed to the rise of more sophisticated and personalized gaming consoles. The increased competition from ports, which allowed publishers to release similar game versions on home consoles, significantly impacted the financial performance of arcades.

Conclusion

The journey of arcade games from penny arcades to modern times is a testament to the evolution of technology and entertainment. While the arcade industry faces modern challenges, the legacy of arcade gaming remains significant in the world of video games and pop culture.