Arcade games that drove us crazy in the arcades

Explore a selection of the most challenging and frustrating arcade video games that have tested players' patience for decades. From 80s and 90s classics to titles that still provoke 'rage quits' today, discover which arcade machines were famous for their extreme difficulty. Relive the nostalgia of those moments when a single credit wasn't enough to overcome these challenges. This list celebrates the skill and perseverance required to master these arcade games.

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  1. 1

    Street Fighter II

    416 Global Votes
    • Revitalized the struggling arcade industry

      (+1)

    It revolutionized fighting games with its diverse cast of characters and complex moves. It set the standard for all fighting games that followed.

  2. 2

    Galaga

    71 Global Votes
    • A playable scale replica of Galaga from the 1980s

      (+4)

    Galaga was addictive due to its frantic shooting gameplay and the ability to capture enemy ships, offering a challenging and rewarding experience that kept players hooked, spending all their coins. Its increasing difficulty and the need to perfect skills to achieve high scores made it an irresistible game in arcades.

  3. 3

    Space Invaders (1978)

    64 Global Votes
    • Top arcade game for three years

      (+2)

    A simple yet addictive shooter that helped popularize video games. Its minimalist design and challenging gameplay made it an instant classic.

  4. 4

    You, Dug

    25 Global Votes
    • Present in arcades since 1982

      (+2)

    Dig Dug is a classic 1982 arcade game that stands out for its unique gameplay of digging tunnels and eliminating enemies by inflating them or crushing them with rocks. Its combination of action and strategy made it a favorite in arcades.

  5. 5

    NBA Jam

    7 Global Votes
    • Arcade adaptation of basketball

      (+4)

    NBA Jam is a classic arcade basketball game known for its over-the-top gameplay and spectacular dunks. It captures the essence of the 90s arcade games that were so popular in arcades.

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  7. 6

    Metal Slug

    6 Global Votes
    • Unique design

      (+3)

    Metal Slug 3 is often cited as one of the series' high points, offering challenging and varied gameplay with multiple paths and endings. Its inclusion in 80s-inspired arcade cabinets allows players to relive that retro experience.

  8. 7

    Daytona USA

    3 Global Votes
    • Considered the best car racing game of the 90s

      (+4)

    Daytona USA is an iconic 1994 arcade racing game that defined the kart racing genre in its time. Its fast-paced gameplay and innovative graphics made it a massive hit in arcades.

  9. 8

    Asteroids

    1 Global Votes
    • Impressive classic

      (+4)

    Asteroids is an iconic vector-based arcade shooting video game released in 1979. Its challenging gameplay of destroying asteroids and alien spaceships made it an arcade classic.

  10. 9

    The Simpsons Arcade Game

    1 Global Votes
    • A much-remembered arcade game from the 90s

      (+3)

    This 1991 Konami arcade game is a classic beat 'em up that lets up to four players choose from Bart, Homer, Marge, and Lisa to fight enemies in Springfield. Its cooperative gameplay and faithful depiction of The Simpsons universe make it a much-loved arcade experience.

  11. 10

    Pac-Man

    0 Global Votes
    • Popularized character-led action games

    A timeless classic that defined an era and remains incredibly addictive. Its simple yet challenging design made it an instant hit in arcades.

  12. 11

    Donkey Kong Country

    0 Global Votes

    A groundbreaking platformer that introduced Mario to the world. Its challenging gameplay and colorful graphics made it an instant favorite.

  13. 12

    Tetris

    0 Global Votes
    • Endless entertainment

      (+4)

    An incredibly addictive puzzle game that challenges players to fit falling pieces together. Its simple yet challenging gameplay made it a worldwide hit.

  14. 13

    Ms. Pac-Man

    0 Global Votes
    • One of the most popular arcade video games of all time.

      (+1)

    Ms. Pac-Man elevated the original Pac-Man formula with more intricate mazes, faster gameplay, and new visuals, making it an addictive, coin-guzzling experience in arcades.

  15. 16

    Centipede

    0 Global Votes
    • Gameplay retro

      (+3)

    Centipede is a classic 1981 Atari shooter game that became a huge hit in arcades for its addictive gameplay and challenging design.

  16. 17

    Frogger

    0 Global Votes
    • Authentic 80s graphics and sounds

      (+2)

    Frogger is a classic arcade game from 1981 that became hugely popular due to its addictive and challenging gameplay. The objective of guiding a frog through obstacles made it an arcade icon.

  17. 18

    Double Dragon

    0 Global Votes
    • Classic and iconic fighting game

      (+3)

    Double Dragon is an iconic 1987 action game that defined the beat 'em up genre in arcades. Its cooperative gameplay and intense street fights made it an unforgettable classic from the golden age of arcades.

  18. 19

    Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

    0 Global Votes
    • Up to four players can control the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

      (+3)

    This 1989 arcade game is a classic beat 'em up that captures the frenetic action and spirit of the animated series, offering a very fun cooperative experience for up to four players and being a mainstay in the arcades of its time.