Portable, Full-Size Arcade Cabinets
There was a time when playing video games meant heading to the mall with a roll of quarters for the arcade machines. Although today we have computers and video game consoles in almost every home, many still feel nostalgic for those days. This nostalgia has led some to restore vintage arcade cabinets, while others opt to build their own. One hackerspace recently received a unique request: to create a full-sized arcade cabinet that was also easily portable.
The initial idea was for a portable arcade cabinet resembling a laptop-like tabletop arcade. However, after further discussions, it became clear that the request was for full-size cabinets that could also be transported easily. This led to the development of a modular design. The controls, monitor, and Raspberry Pi running the machines were designed to be self-contained units. The cabinet itself was split into two parts, allowing for quick on-site assembly. The base was made separate and optional, enabling the top section to be placed on the base or on surfaces like tabletops or bars, with the electronics section dropping in quickly.
While the concept of a Raspberry Pi-powered arcade cabinet is not new, the process of quick building, prototyping, and designing a final product that is both mobile and easy to assemble stands out. The project showcases the capability to transform nostalgic desires into functional and modern creations. Detailed information, including Fusion 360 models, is available on the project’s GitHub page, providing valuable resources for anyone interested in replicating or learning from this build.
This project highlights the blend of nostalgia with modern technology, allowing for the creation of portable arcade cabinets that bring the charm of vintage gaming into contemporary settings. The modular design ensures both ease of transport and assembly, making it a practical solution for those who want the arcade experience without the permanent fixture.
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