Arcadecraft (XBLIG): "Run Your Own Virtual Arcade!!!"

As a youngster I often took advantage of family trips to Kmart, the movie theater, and the local mall. These were the only arcade sources that were available in my area unfortunately. The good thing was that these sources kept some impressive up-to-date arcade cabinets in stock for shoppers to enjoy. I was able play games like Street Fighter Alpha, Tekken 5 & 6, Soul Calibur, Killer Instinct, and even Samurai Showdown III: Blades of Blood. I ended up spending a sh*t ton of quarters whenever I got the chance to do so. It was a public outlet that allowed me to compete against other gamers I never knew of. Keep in mind this was long before online gaming ever came into play. Looking back those were definitely some of my greatest gaming days. I guess my point in reminiscing is that Arcade venues are becoming a thing of the past. These days you only hear about the stories from gamers who actually lived their lives playing at the arcades. Thanks to 'FireBase Ind.' though we now have a cool little indie game that breathes life into the arcade legends of old. While it may not mirror the experience it offers the gamer a peek into what it was like to run such a business. In essence it's an homage to an almost extinct genre of gaming.

Arcadecraft is an indie business simulator that takes the concept of running an arcade gaming establishment to new heights. This fully 3D experience utilizes all aspects of running a business while keeping it visually pleasing, and fun. You start the game off with a bank loan of only $12,000 and work your way up the ranks of social popularity using all the tools that are made available to you. You can add arcade cabinets to earn cash flow, and gradually add to the visual appeal of your rented brick building with the money that you earn. Things like column colors, floor tiles, and even custom graphics can be bought, and applied to make your arcade business a thriving one. Aside from managing the arcade cabinets, and structure details you'll also need to hire employees as your business grows (assuming that it does). The only real break that you have is that your financial assistant does all the behind-the-scenes management for you. In retrospect it's about as close as you can get to the serious nature of running an arcade business without actually running one.

When it comes to the visual aesthetics of "Arcadecraft" you'll find that 'FireBase Industries' has spared no expense when creating this game. Anyone who plays it will tell you that the attention to detail is truly impressive. The arcade (your arcade) is brought to life with the various interactions of objects, and avatar based AI characters. I think it was a nice touch seeing my own avatar behind the desk running my arcade in it's cyber ninja costume. The fact that there were a nice variety of other costume wearing patrons also added to the visual appeal of the experience. Even the dialogue rich thought bubbles above the paying patrons' heads were a nice touch. As far as the sounds involved are concerned you'll find that your arcade is filled to the ceiling with retro arcade sound effects, and even an homage to the coin dropping sounds of the classic arcade experience. The title screen even has it's own tribute to the coin-op genre. Instead of a "Press Start" image you'll find a "Insert Coin" option that sounds as if you were actually inserting a coin when the start button is pressed. It's things like these that make this indie game a gem.

I realize I've been a bit vague with my review, but I did explain everything in a general manner. I think that this XBLIG title is definitely worth your time, and money. The experience is not only a fun one, but it's also educational from a business standpoint. I loved the fact that I was able to name my own virtual arcade, and run it as I see fit. Things like the global leaderboard gives the game significant replay value, especially for any highscore seeking enthusiasts. Looking back on my playthrough I can honestly say though I found nothing wrong with this game. The business portion as well as the interactive management part worked together very well, and created a well-rounded experience in the process. I definitely liked the year based continuity of the game (starts off in 1980 & moves up daily). The fact that new arcade machines, and equipment were made available as time passed, and money was earned was also a huge plus. I think it would be awesome if 'FireBase Industries' were to add free DLC (new arcade cabinets, decorations ...) to the game as more gamers purchase the XBLIG title. Milkstone proposed, and did something similar to that with their release of 'Sushi Castle'. I think it would help with sales, and bring more attention to this unique retro based title. If you haven't tried this game out yet at least give the demo a shot. Sure it's not a CoD (Call of Duty) game, but I stick by what I said when mentioning that it's worth your time, and money.