Title: Finding My Perfect First Home Arcade Machine: Mission Accomplished
I first encountered an arcade machine in 1985 at a roller rink in Clovis, California. The game was Nintendo's legendary Donkey Kong, and though I only made it as far as Level 2, it sparked a lifelong passion for video games. Fast forward six years, and I was thrilled to drop my first quarter into Street Fighter II, vowing then and there that I'd one day have my very own arcade machine in my home.
Given the momentum, I believe it's finally time to make that dream a reality. Thanks to collaborators like Iconic Arcade, Media1Up, Arcade PR, and the financial backing of Lenovo, the opportunity is here.
Iconic Arcade is working with Capcom to launch a pair of Street Fighter XXL home arcade machines, which are set to debut in Q2 2025 for $699. The collection boasts 14 games in total, including the Street Fighter II series, Street Fighter Alpha series, and Street Fighter III: Third Strike. Many of these games can be played online with leaderboards, friend lists, spectate mode, and multiplayer lobbies.
It's not just the game collection that's drawing me in - no, it's the numerous appeal points, including the nearly full-size design, stunning artwork, lit marquee, expandability, and a few standout features that make this an exceptional choice.
Sizing Up:
Iconic Arcade is going for a 9/10 scale replica of the sturdy Dynamo HS-1 cabinet. Popular in arcade's heyday for its durability and adaptability, the cabinet could be easily customized with different joysticks, game boards, and art packages. The almost full-size structure ensures comfortable play, while a 19" BOE screen delivers sharp visuals.

The Linux Advantage:
The machines are powered by a Raspberry Pi 5 and a custom Linux OS, but users can switch out the OS with other compatible options such as Batocera or Recalbox. Additionally, the Raspberry 5 supports classic consoles like the NES, Sega Genesis, PS1, and even Dreamcast titles, making this a versatile choice for retro gaming enthusiasts.
The Art of Expandability:
Connectivity-wise, HDMI supports videos up to 4K, Gigabit Ethernet streamlines access to ROMs, and multiple USB ports and Bluetooth support additional controllers and speakers. Spokesperson David McIntosh from Arcade PR asserted, "This machine's only limitations are our imaginations."
A Global Reach:

Lenovo's parent company Medion AG partners with Media1Up, Eldohm, and Arcade PR to promote the machines globally. Their backing provides international distribution and a reasonable price point, making for a more affordable, reliably sourced arcade machine.
Street Fighter XXL Pricing and Availability:
The Street Fighter XXL arcade machines are nearly complete, with feedback from the community informing the final design before the Q2 2025 release. The machines can be pre-ordered for $699 including shipping.
Enrichment Data:
The Street Fighter XXL home arcade machines, due in Q2 2025, feature various specifications and features like:
- Size and Build:
- Height: Approximately five feet seven inches.
- Weight: About 90 pounds.
- Dimensions: 67 inches wide, 23 inches deep, and 28 inches tall.
- Screen Resolution:
- Features a 19-inch BOE monitor with high color saturation and visual clarity.
- Processor:
- Powered by a Raspberry Pi 5 with a 2.4 GHz quad-core ARM Cortex-A76 processor.
- Controls:
- Use Happ-style joysticks and Sanwa-style buttons for an authentic arcade experience.
- Online Multiplayer and Leaderboards:
- Supports online multiplayer and leaderboards.
- Recording and Streaming:
- HDMI Out offers options for recording and livestreaming.
- Nostalgic Design Elements:
- Includes a lit marquee and glowing faux coin door to evoke nostalgia.
- Features adjustable volume control and headphone jack for quiet sessions.
- Design Variants:
- Twin models: Street Fighter II The World Warrior XXL Arcade Machine and Street Fighter Alpha 2 XXL Arcade Machine.
- Each model possesses distinctive designs: World Warrior edition with a dark black-and-yellow theme and Alpha 2 edition with a stylish blue gradient and intricate artwork.
- Assembly:
- Straightforward assembly with assembly taking place within an afternoon.
- Compatibility:
- The machines support a curated selection of Capcom titles, but there are no specific mentions regarding compatibility with other Linux distributions for expanding game libraries.
I'm particularly excited about the upcoming Street Fighter XXL home arcade machines from Iconic Arcade, as they'll include not only my favorite Street Fighter II series but also the Street Fighter Alpha series and Street Fighter III: Third Strike. playing these iconic games in an arcade-like setting will truly bring back memories of the '80s and '90s arcade culture.
Given the extensive game collection and the near-full-size design of the Street Fighter XXL arcade machines, I believe they'll provide an authentic and immersive gaming experience, making my dream of having an arcade machine at home a reality.