Videomaster Upright Arcade Machine
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#SponsoredUpright Arcade Machine Auctions: A Nostalgic Goldmine
Upright arcade machines, those iconic symbols of 80s and 90s gaming culture, are experiencing a revival through auctions that attract collectors, enthusiasts, and nostalgic gamers. These auctions, held both online and in-person, offer a chance to own a piece of gaming history, from classics like Pac-Man to rare finds like Polybius. Here’s a dive into the world of arcade machine auctions and what makes these upright cabinets so special.
Why Upright Arcade Machines Are Hot at Auctions
- Nostalgia Factor: Upright arcade machines evoke memories of bustling arcades, neon lights, and the clink of coins. Collectors bid fiercely for titles like Street Fighter II or Galaga, often paying £800–£4,000 for fully restored units, while rare or prototype machines can fetch upwards of £16,000.
- Craftsmanship: Unlike modern consoles, these machines were built to last, with sturdy wooden cabinets, vibrant CRT monitors, and bespoke artwork. A well-preserved Donkey Kong cabinet, for instance, showcases hand-painted side art that’s a collectible in its own right.
- Investment Potential: Prices have surged in recent years. A 1982 Tron machine sold for £6,800 at a 2024 auction, nearly double its value a decade ago. Restored or rare machines appreciate steadily, making them a unique investment.
Auction Highlights
- Online Platforms: Sites like eBay and ArcadeClassics.com host regular auctions, with machines like Mortal Kombat II often starting at £400 but climbing quickly. Speciality auction houses like Morphy Auctions or Heritage Auctions feature high-end lots, including multi-game cabinets or prototypes.
- In-Person Events: Annual events like the Chicago Arcade Expo or California Extreme combine auctions with gaming conventions. A 2023 California Extreme auction saw a rare Qbert* prototype sell for £12,000 due to its unique test-market control panel.
- Hidden Gems: Auctions often uncover curiosities, like jukebox-arcade hybrids or Japanese candy cabinets (compact uprights for shmups like DoDonPachi). These can go for £1,600–£8,000 depending on condition and rarity.
Fascinating Details About Upright Arcade Machines
- Tech Marvels: Early machines used CRT monitors with vector or raster graphics, giving games like Asteroids their distinctive glow. Modern restorations often swap in LCDs, but purists stick to original tubes for authenticity.
- Customisation: Operators could adjust difficulty settings via DIP switches, ensuring arcades remained profitable. A Space Invaders cabinet might have been tweaked to challenge players more, keeping them feeding coins.