A home arcade machine can be a lot of fun, whether you miss the old arcades or simply want an alternative to the console under your TV. The AtGames Legends Ultimate HD Arcade is an easy way to dip your toe in the home arcade scene, but it’s versatile enough for hobbyists looking to customize. Easy to assemble, with around 300 licensed games onboard, this full-size machine boasts solid arcade controls for two players and a 24-inch screen.
It’s nostalgia-tinged fun for me, but my kids have also been hooked by arcade classics despite never setting foot in one. It may not be the prettiest, and many of the included games are duds, but if you have the space, the Legends Ultimate HD Arcade is a great way to bring the arcade home.
Substance Over Style
Assembly with some home arcade machines can be an all-day affair, and it can be enjoyable if you’re into that kind of thing, but if you just want to start gaming you'll appreciate the Legends Ultimate HD Arcade. The top half comes preassembled, so all you need to do is screw together the hollow MDF bottom section, connect a few wires, and it’s game on. Mine was ready to rock within half an hour. It may take a little longer if you snagged custom artwork (you can fit acrylic side panels).
Photograph: Simon HillI’m not in love with the look. Compared to real arcade machines, the Legends Arcade is wider and shallower, though this helps it fit into homes better. You get a list of games in the middle panel at the bottom and mixed artwork on the sides, but you might want to buy or make your own side panels and marquee art. AtGames offers the Legends BitLCD HD ($350) as an add-on for animated marquee art, but it’s way too expensive.
