Affordable Classic Arcade Rentals Cost

People Playing Arcades at an Event

What are Classic Arcade Rentals?

Classic arcade video games are considered to be those created in the first years of the birth of coin-operated video games and is considered the "golden age" of video arcade games. In the last few years, we've seen an upward trend in events with a Retro theme which includes arcade game rentals. Experience the nostalgia of the "golden age" of video arcade games with retro-themed events and arcade game rentals. Gone are the days of local arcade game rooms, but you can still enjoy these timeless classics.

But no more. You’re lucky if you have a traditional arcade room in your hometown. Most arcade rooms had to combine with either a bar or restaurant for the business to be profitable.  But don't worry, we've got you covered! Whether you're a fan of traditional upright arcade machines or retro games like Donkey Kong, we have the information and resources you need to plan your arcade gaming experience, including arcade rentals cost.

Ms Pac Man Classic Arcade control panel

Whether you’d prefer the traditional upright arcade machines or some of the other retro games like Skee Ball, here’s some information and resources to help you in your planning along with general arcade rental costs.

What are some of the more popular classic arcade rentals?

A few famous titles include:

  • Ms. Pac man-Manufactured by Midway Manufacturing Co. in 1981

- Interesting tidbit:  Original Ms. Pacman cabinets have the artwork painted on the sides. However, on the last production run of the game, adhesive sticker art was used instead of paint.

  • Pac Man-Manufactured by Midway Manufacturing Co. in 1980

Interesting tidbit:  Some of the Original Pac Man cabinets will be speckled with pink or blue paint on top of the yellow base color. And the plastic edging on the cabinets was originally orange.

Renting Classic Arcades

 - Interesting tidbit: Namco also produced very small versions of these games, about the size of a 17-inch monitor, for buses and airplanes.

 -Interesting tidbit: After its release in the US, many arcade operators had to make larger coin boxes for the games so they could hold all of the quarters that these machines collected.

Asteroid Arcade Game Rental

-Interesting tidbit: Mario Bros and Super Mario are spin-offs from Donkey Kong.

-Interesting tidbit: Dig Dug arcade does not award extra man after 900,000 points. The score will flip over at 1,000,000. 

A true classic arcade, The Galaxy Game, the earliest known coin-operated arcade video game, made its debut on the campus of Stanford University in 1971. While Atari's Pong was quick to follow in the mid '70s. Our family was the first in our neighborhood to own the home console version of Pong. 

Pong has now made a re-appearance with an updated look and bigger out of the box game.

Real Arcade Game vs Multicade Arcades

With the renewed interest in classic arcades, knock offs have been built as multicade games which include several or even hundreds of games all in one video game cabinet. Unfortunately, these types of units are not legal. Anyone selling or renting these types of units are typically doing so illegally. The unit is created, by using either old, bootlegged or counterfeit software, and/or hardware boards, usually made in China. Most of these games are cheaply constructed, have questionable quality control and warranties, and the fact that the person or firm who is selling or renting them knows they are doing so illegally should tell you something about the honesty and reputation of that company or individual. Namco continues to make their classic games and does not allow their games to be paired with any other manufacturer's game. Do you think that Apple would allow you to use the iPhone apps on a Samsung phone? It’s pretty much the same thing.

Arcade Rental Costs

So how much does it cost to rent an arcade machine? Depending on your location and your event dynamics, a traditional original classic arcade rental costs will range from $350-$500 per game and does not include a delivery or pickup fee. Keep in mind, this range will vary depending on your location.  

Follow us on IG to see our latest arcade rentals!
Remember the thrill of your first arcade game? 🎮 Arcade games bring joy to everyone—kids, parents, grandparents, and everyone in between. Whether you're reliving childhood memories or making new ones, the fun never stops! Share your favorite arcade moments with us in the comments. What's your top game pick?
🎉Ready to ramp up your corporate holiday festivities? Step up your game with arcade rentals. 
 
🕹A vintage pinball tournament or a high-stakes Pac-Man chase can turn a standard company shindig into a retro roller-coaster of fun. 
 
🔥Imagine the laughter and camaraderie as your team battles it out for the highest score. It's not just a party, it's team building with a joyful jolt of nostalgia. 
 
💫So, why stick to the same old holiday party routine? Make this year's event an unforgettable experience. Arcade rentals - a unique and fun spin on corporate holiday parties. 🎄
🌟Ever wondered what it's like to step into the shoes of a Jedi or Sith? With the Star Wars trilogy game, you can experience it first-hand! This game series lets you explore iconic locations, master force skills, and make important decisions that will affect the outcome of the galaxy.🎮 Dive into an immersive universe, battle against or alongside characters you know and love, and even steer the fate of the Star Wars universe. It's a fantastic journey into the world of Jedi, Sith, Wookiees, and Droids! 👾 Expand your horizons, and may the force be with you! 
 
(Also pictured is Guardians of the Galaxy and Beatlemania arcade games, because why not add more fun? 😉)
🕹️ Craving some intergalactic action? Prepare yourself as we guide you through the epic experience of Galaxy Pinball and Star Wars Arcade. 
 
⭐️ Unleash your inner Jedi by navigating through a complex labyrinth of lights, sounds, and bouncing balls with Galaxy Pinball. Feel the thrill as you keep your eyes on the prize! 
 
🚀 Then, step into the Star Wars Arcade universe and engage in epic space battles, chase TIE fighters, and face off against the dark side. 
 
🔮 Become one with the force and let nostalgia take you on a journey with these classic arcade games. Remember, the galaxy is in your hands!
🎮 Welcome to the world of vintage arcade games! Have you ever tried a Love Tester machine? 💕 More than a game, it could predict your love life's future! Grab your S/O, and put your compatibility to the test. 💖 Remember, love is the most beautiful game we play! 💑
Did you know about #StrangerCon? It's a gathering for all about Stranger Things being held here in Atlanta.

We brought a few classic arcades that were in the series.

Rental Costs for Classic Arcades

If your event is in a location that does not have any or just a couple of game rental companies, that rental company can charge you whatever price they deem appropriate. Arcade Game Rentals are a very specialized niche industry. Most of the famous classic arcade video games were built in the 1980's meaning they are at least 30 years old today and would be considered an antique or treasured collectible. The fact that a company has video games much less that they are in working condition is amazing! Through the years, the number of technicians that can effectively work on the classic arcades has dwindled. So, if you find a company that does rent and can repair their games, you have found a gem of a supplier.

But what about other arcade machine rentals and their rental costs?  Each arcade game rental costs factors in additional labor needed.  For instance our larger basketball machines like LED NBA Hoops or Hoop Fever is delivered in 3 large pieces that need to be assembled onsite and may take 2 hours to assemble with 2 of our trained staff. These larger sports games begin at $700 each (does not include delivery/setup/pickup fees).  

Arcade Games in Businesses

Another situation arises where arcade games are to be placed in a business so the business owner can receive additional revenue from the games. This is called a revenue share line of business. 

For decades, Phoenix Amusements provided this line of service but no longer does so. In the state of Georgia, you must be a licensed operator to provide games to businesses. If you put coins, money, or cards into the machine, you fall into this category. 

But fear not, we've found the perfect solution for you.  Vision Amusement, a licensed Amusement Game Operator, is here to serve the Atlanta area and help you navigate the gaming industry rules. And for any additional guidelines or information on this business area, the Georgia Lottery Commission is your go-to resource.

Arcade Games for Corporate Offices or Businesses as a Customer Service

Level up your office with arcade games that will make your employees never want to leave (no quarters needed)! Looking to boost morale and keep your employees happy and engaged? Look no further than arcade games in your corporate office! With no coins required, our long-term game rentals come with servicing and maintenance included. Not only will your employees have a blast, but you can also foster team bonding through weekly tournaments!

At Phoenix Amusements, we offer long-term rentals of arcade games for corporate offices, complete with servicing and maintenance. Keep your team happy, engaged, and bonding with weekly tournaments.

But wait, what about if I want to buy arcade games? Phoenix Amusements does not sell arcade games but we can recommend locally Classic Game Rooms

Contact us if you need more information for renting these arcade games for your retro event or individual pricing for arcade rental costs!

2 Comments

  1. Stacy on 07/07/2020 at 2:27 pm

    Hello Gina,
    Yes, it can be pricey to begin a business with costs for rent and then for your product or services among licenses, etc. I do not know the laws and regulations for businesses in New York, but you may be able to locate games through searching for “amusement operator” in New York or the city you wish to open your business. Good luck!



  2. Gina on 07/01/2020 at 10:09 am

    Said I whan to open a small arcade, but I don’t have the money to buy the arcade machines , is any company to some Caind of renting just for me to find rent space. I live in NY