15 Forgotten Arcade Games That Were Once The Coolest In The Mall

Ah, the golden age of arcades—a time when the air buzzed with the sound of 8-bit melodies, joysticks clicked furiously, and neon lights bathed eager players in a warm glow.

Quarters weren’t just currency; they were your ticket to digital glory, your chance to leave initials on the high-score board and cement your legacy among the best. Arcades were more than just game rooms; they were social hubs, battlegrounds, and the ultimate escape for gamers of all ages.

But not every legendary game managed to stay in the spotlight. Some, despite their jaw-dropping graphics (for the time), mind-blowing gameplay, or just sheer coolness, have faded into obscurity. Yet, these forgotten gems once ruled the arcade scene, drawing crowds like rockstars and turning casual players into hardcore button-mashers.

So grab a virtual handful of tokens as we relive the thrill of 15 arcade classics that deserve to be remembered, rebooted, and most importantly—replayed!

1. Primal Rage (1994)

In a world where dinosaurs and apes were the ultimate warriors, Primal Rage brought the prehistoric past into the arcade present. As the crowd gathered around, the digital roars and pixelated punches echoed through the mall.

Each fight was a spectacle, as players unleashed brutal fatalities that would make even Mortal Kombat blush. The characters, ranging from dinosaurs to giant apes, offered a unique twist on the typical fighting game.

This game wasn’t just about winning; it was about dominating the prehistoric food chain, one quarter at a time. Truly, a primal experience to cherish.

2. Time Killers (1992)

Time Killers was the ultimate test of endurance—and not just for the characters. In a realm where knights, cyborgs, and other warriors clashed, losing a limb was merely a flesh wound.

The audience gasped as fighters continued battling with missing arms, defying the laws of nature and video gaming. Each encounter was a thrilling dance of survival, where victory was uncertain and defeat was often gruesome.

This game wasn’t for the faint-hearted, but for those daring enough to face the chaos, it was a rewarding challenge. A true test of one’s mettle and button-mashing skills.

3. Cyberball 2072 (1988)

Imagine football, but with robots—and explosions! Cyberball 2072 took the classic sport and injected it with a heavy dose of futuristic flair.

As players maneuvered their robotic teams, the tension was palpable, especially when overheating robots threatened to explode. The crowd watched in eager anticipation, cheering as touchdowns erupted in metallic fireworks.

Strategic plays and quick reflexes were key, as each match was a high-stakes game of digital gridiron. This wasn’t just a game; it was a robotic revolution in sports entertainment. A cybernetic spectacle that left players and spectators breathless.

4. NARC (1988)

NARC was the arcade answer to buddy-cop films, with a gritty twist. Players stepped into the shoes of law enforcement, taking on drug dealers and criminals in a city teetering on chaos.

Armed with bazookas, handcuffs, and a badge, players had the choice to arrest or annihilate. Explosive cars and pixelated perps set the stage for high-octane action, where the line between justice and destruction was blurred.

The game pulled no punches in its depiction of crime-fighting, offering a rollercoaster ride through the underbelly of video game justice. A gritty, explosive adventure that was hard to resist.

5. Smash TV (1990)

Step right up to the future of game shows with Smash TV! A dystopian world where contestants fought for cash, prizes, and survival.

The arcade filled with cries of ‘big money, big prizes’ as players blasted through waves of enemies, all for the ultimate reward. The stakes were high, the rewards even higher, and the action was relentless. Contestants navigated a maze of danger, armed to the teeth and aiming for the jackpot.

It was a chaotic, thrilling ride where fortune favored the bold—and the trigger-happy. A carnival of carnage that kept audiences coming back for more.

6. X-Men (1992)

Welcome to the world of mutants and mayhem with X-Men! This arcade classic allowed up to six players to team up as iconic heroes like Wolverine and Cyclops.

With dual screens linked for maximum chaos, players unleashed mutant powers against Magneto’s forces. The camaraderie and chaos of six players battling side-by-side created an unforgettable experience. Each character brought unique abilities to the fight, making teamwork essential for victory.

The flashy animations and epic battles were a feast for the senses, drawing in crowds eager to join the fight. A super-powered spectacle that united players in their quest for justice.

7. APB (1987)

APB was the arcade game where you could live out your cop fantasies—ticket book and all. In a cartoonish open-world city, players donned the badge of a rookie officer.

Writing tickets and chasing criminals became a hilarious and engaging adventure, akin to a reverse Grand Theft Auto. The charm of APB lay in its lighthearted take on law enforcement, offering humor and action in equal measure.

With each mission, players balanced the scales of justice while navigating the whimsical cityscape. It was a quirky, delightful romp that captured the essence of arcade fun. An amusing journey in digital policing.

8. Splatterhouse (1988)

Splatterhouse took horror to new heights in the arcade, offering a side-scrolling fright fest that thrilled and chilled players.

As a hockey-masked brute, players hacked through demons and zombies, channeling their inner Jason Voorhees. The game was a spine-tingling adventure filled with gore and ghouls, capturing the essence of horror in pixelated form.

Each level was a descent into madness, where only the bravest dared to tread. It wasn’t just a game; it was an experience that left players on the edge of their seats, hearts racing with every terrifying encounter. A hauntingly good time that was hard to forget.

9. Exterminator (1989)

Who said pest control couldn’t be fun? Enter Exterminator, where players became a disembodied hand zapping roaches and smashing bugs.

The arcade setting transformed into a house of horrors, where insects reigned supreme. With each swipe and zap, the battle against nightmare fuel intensified. This quirky title combined humor with action, offering a bizarre yet entertaining experience.

Players relished the challenge of clearing rooms of creepy-crawlies, their reflexes and quick thinking put to the test. It was an amusing, offbeat adventure that turned bug-busting into a beloved pastime. A unique twist on arcade gaming that was oddly satisfying.

10. Lucky & Wild (1993)

Buckle up for a wild ride with Lucky & Wild! This game put players in the dual role of driver and shooter, fusing racing with action-packed gameplay.

One player took the wheel while the other wielded firepower, creating a dynamic duo ready for any road-bound challenge. The thrill of the chase was palpable, as players navigated highways and blasted foes in a high-speed pursuit.

It was a unique blend of teamwork and reflexes, where coordination was the key to success. The lively 1990s arcade vibes added to the excitement, making it a ride to remember. A turbo-charged experience that left hearts racing.

11. Sunset Riders (1991)

Saddle up for a rootin’ tootin’ good time with Sunset Riders! This arcade classic brought the Wild West to life, complete with saloon brawls and train heists.

Players donned the hats of cowboy heroes, blasting through bandits in a four-player co-op shootout. The camaraderie and chaos of each mission were as thrilling as a high-noon showdown. With vibrant visuals and engaging gameplay, Sunset Riders captured the essence of a Western adventure.

The thrill of the chase, the clang of spurs, and the crack of gunfire created an unforgettable experience. A cowboy’s dream come true in arcade form.

12. Food Fight (1983)

Food Fight was the culinary chaos every arcade needed! Players took on the role of a kid battling angry chefs with pies and bananas. The objective? Secure the precious ice cream cone at the end of the level.

The arcade filled with laughter and cheers as players hurled food with gusto, embracing the delightful anarchy. Each stage was a test of timing and strategy, as players dodged culinary catastrophes. It was a feast for the senses, with vibrant graphics and whimsical gameplay.

A delectable adventure that turned food fights into an art form. An arcade classic that was sweet and satisfying.

13. Dragon’s Lair (1983)

Enter the enchanted world of Dragon’s Lair, where players became the valiant knight Dirk the Daring. This laserdisc game captivated audiences with movie-quality animation, offering a cinematic experience like no other.

Each scene was a vivid tableau of danger, requiring quick reflexes and sharp wits to survive. The difficulty was legendary, challenging even the most seasoned players. Yet, the allure of playing a cartoon where each decision mattered kept audiences hooked.

It was more than a game; it was an interactive adventure. A masterpiece of storytelling and innovation that dazzled players with its charm and challenge.

14. Beast Busters (1989)

Grab your light guns and prepare for zombie-slaying mayhem in Beast Busters! This arcade phenomenon allowed three players to join forces against an undead onslaught.

Armed to the teeth, players mowed down waves of zombies, each shot a strike for survival. The camaraderie and chaos of co-op gameplay made for an exhilarating experience. With its horror-themed ambiance and relentless action, Beast Busters was a testament to the thrill of arcade collaboration.

It wasn’t just a game; it was a battle for humanity’s last stand. A pulse-pounding romp that kept players coming back for more undead action.

15. Ghouls ‘n Ghosts (1988)

Ghouls ‘n Ghosts was the ultimate test of knightly valor in the arcade world. Players donned the armor of Sir Arthur, battling demons in a quest fraught with peril.

The twist? Lose your armor, and you’re left fighting in nothing but boxers—a humorous yet humbling experience. Each level was a medieval gauntlet of challenges, where quick reflexes and perseverance were essential. The captivating graphics and engaging gameplay made it a fan favorite, despite its punishing difficulty.

It was a legendary quest that combined humor with heroics, leaving a lasting impression on all who dared to play. A knight’s tale like no other.