By Lesa 
Have you noticed a renewed passion for playing old arcade favourites? Discover what’s driving the trend for these games in the 2020s and the different ways you can play.
- Nostalgia
From TV shows to interior design, nostalgia for key 20th-century decades like the 80s and 20s has been rife in popular culture in recent years, so it’s no wonder this phenomenon is also impacting gaming. It’s thought that nostalgia is so popular right now because this decade has generated lots of uncertainty which is driving us to seek comfort in the familiar. That’s why it aligns so well with the entertainment industry which many of us rely on for escapism each day.
- Simple gameplay
The simple format of arcade games is enduringly popular. You don’t need to devote hours to developing the skills required to tackle complex video games or playing to move up the various levels. You don’t have to invest in expensive specialist equipment either. Whether in person at physical arcades or online, any adult can try their hand at these simple puzzles, straightforward tests of physical skill or games of chance.
- Digital upgrades
While the physical originals will always have a place in people’s hearts – and are making a comeback in locations across the UK – digital upgrades are playing a big role in driving their continued popularity. Advanced technology like virtual reality (VR) systems is bringing to life once-static gaming worlds and giving players the opportunity of a fully immersive experience.
We now have the option of playing arcade favourites online too, via our browser or niche mobile apps. With just a few clicks on your laptop or smartphone you can access digital versions of the classics and try your hand at tackling them in this reimagined format. Music and graphics replicate the happy atmosphere of old arcades.
- Social interaction
Arcades have always been a place for rewarding social interaction, although the introduction of home consoles in the early 2000s was the start of a long decline in their popularity. Moving them to the online space has reawakened this sense of community, and players are enjoying connecting over their shared passion via in-game live chatrooms.
However, it’s important to remember that social interaction in the online space should be approached with caution. Avoid giving out your private information such as your address and card details and use a fake name when setting up accounts. Watch out for unusual questions in the chats that might be the work of cybercriminals and cyberattack methods like phishing scams that aim to steal your data.