The Best Arcade Games of All Time

These days we often come across big-budget video games that make us feel their realism through their stories and graphics. But the starting point for games like these was the arcade — once an essential part of life. These arcades brought gaming culture to a lot of people. Today's PC and console games have taken the place of arcade games. Even so, many of us remember the excitement of the games we played on arcade cabinets like it was yesterday. We've listed the best arcade games that have stuck in our memories below.

Arcade Games

Pac-Man

Pac-Man released in 1980. One of the most popular arcade games of all time, Pac-Man is still among the longest-running, best-selling, and highest-grossing games even today.

• Genre: Maze, puzzle
• Release date: 1980
• Developer: Bandai Namco

Donkey Kong

Released in the early 80s, Donkey Kong is considered the forerunner of the Super Mario series. Having sold close to 40 million units worldwide, this series made a huge contribution to Nintendo's growth.

• Genre: Platform, adventure, puzzle, racing
• Release date: 1981
• Developer: Nintendo

Street Fighter

Released in 1987, the Street Fighter series caught people's attention at the time. Considered advanced for the 80s in its fighting mechanics, realistic combat sounds, and atmosphere, the game remains popular even today.

• Genre: Fighting
• Release date: 1987
• Developer: Capcom

Defender

One of the most memorable games of the 80s, Defender defined the peak popularity of arcade cabinets. Played from a side-view camera angle, the game's high pace made it challenging even for skilled players.

• Genre: Shoot 'em up
• Release date: 1981
• Developer: Williams Electronics

Mortal Kombat

Mortal Kombat came out in the 90s. It quickly became a popular new fighting game after Street Fighter. The unique powers of Mortal Kombat's characters, its finishing moves, and its high dose of gore significantly boosted interest in the game.

• Genre: Fighting
• Release date: 1992
• Developer: Midway Games, NetherRealm Studios

Mario Bros

Super Mario Bros released in 1983. The game won over most people's admiration. Mario, the game's character, is still considered by many to be the most famous video game character in the world.

• Genre: Platform
• Release date: 1983
• Developer: Nintendo

Space Invaders

Space Invaders released in 1978. In the game, you try to shoot down aliens trying to take over the world. Although the game has no time limit, its difficulty steadily increases.

• Genre: Shoot 'em up
• Release date: 1978
• Developer: Taito

Sega Rally

Sega Rally Championship released in 1994. This game is a great example of how far arcade games had come. You can play it solo against the computer or as a 2-player game with a friend.

• Genre: Racing
• Release date: 1994
• Developer: Sega AM3

Track and Field

Track and Field released in 1983. This Olympic-themed game stayed popular for years. It featured events like the 100-meter dash, javelin throw, long jump, high jump, and hammer throw. Some of Track and Field's events also featured a few fantastical moments.

• Genre: Sports
• Release date: 1983
• Developer: Konami