Arcade Cabinets vs. Modern Consoles: Which is Best for Your Event?

Which is Best for Your Event?

Planning an event and unsure whether to rent arcade cabinets or modern gaming consoles? Both options bring fun, but they offer different experiences. Let’s compare them to help you decide which is best for your party, event, or birthday celebration.

1. The Nostalgia Factor

Arcade Cabinets:

• Instantly bring retro charm with classics like Pac-Man, Street Fighter II, and Mortal Kombat.

• Great for adult parties and 30+ birthdays where guests love reliving childhood memories.

• The physical joysticks and buttons make gameplay more immersive.

Modern Consoles (PS5, Xbox, Switch):

• Offer cutting-edge graphics and newer titles (Fortnite, Mario Kart 8, EA FC).

• Better for younger crowds who prefer modern games.

• Lack the same "wow factor" as a full-sized arcade machine.

Verdict: If nostalgia is key, go with arcades. For the latest games, choose consoles.

2. Social Interaction & Multiplayer Fun

Arcade Cabinets:

• Built for face-to-face competition (e.g., NBA Jam, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles).

• Encourage crowds gathering around, cheering, and taking turns.

• Some cabinets support 4-player co-op, making them great for groups.

Modern Consoles:

• Support online multiplayer, but local split-screen is less common.

• Require extra controllers and setup for group play.

• Better for smaller groups who want to play casually.

Verdict: Arcades win for crowd engagement, while consoles work for smaller, relaxed sessions.

3. Setup & Space Requirements

Arcade Cabinets:

• Standalone units —just plug in and play.

• Need a bit more floor space (but make a bold visual statement).

• No need to worry about extra controllers or charging cables.

Modern Consoles:

• Require TVs, HDMI cables, and power sources.

• Multiple controllers mean more setup and potential tech issues.

• Better for home parties where gaming isn’t the main focus.

Verdict: Arcades are plug-and-play, while consoles need more prep.

4. Cost & Rental Value

Arcade machines may cost more but deliver a **unique, premium experience**.

Consoles are cheaper but may feel less special.

For big events, arcades create a "mini-arcade" vibe that impresses guests.

Final Decision: Which Should You Rent?

✅ Choose Arcade Cabinets If:

• You want nostalgic, crowd-friendly fun.

• Your event is game-centric (birthdays, corporate parties, festivals).

• You love the retro aesthetic and easy setup.

✅ Choose Modern Consoles If:

• Your guests prefer newer games (e.g., Mario Kart, FIFA).

• You have a smaller budget and space.

• Gaming is a side activity, not the main attraction.

Need Help Deciding?

At North Point Arcade, we offer both arcade rentals and modern console setups for any event. Contact us today to find the perfect gaming experience for your party!