The Simpsons Arcade 1 Up:
Is It Worth It?

Arcade machines have always held a special place in my heart. I remember being seven or eight years old and a huge gaming enthusiasts. The sounds of a sunday spent with the cabinets, flashing lights, and the mechanical symphony of buttons and joysticks being smashed are memories of a better time. One such iconic machine that captured the essence of classic arcade gaming is The Simpsons Arcade. At the time I had already played Bart’s Nightmare on Sega Genesis. But it had nothing on the real thing in the arcade. But with the release of Arcade 1 Up Machines does it recapture the energy of years gone by or does it pale in comparison.

In this article, we will delve into the details of this retro gem and answer the burning question:
The Simpsons Arcade 1 Up: Is it worth it?

The Simpson Arcade Games 

When it comes to arcade machines, one of the main factors to consider is the quality and number of games included. The Simpsons Arcade 1 Up Machine boasts two classic titles, “The Simpsons” and “Simpsons Bowling”. The first is just as I remember filled with amazing sounds and it ticks most of the boxes when it comes to game play. No issues on the reproduction here bringing back the vibes of the animated TV series. Playing as Homer, Marge, Bart, or Lisa, you’ll embark on a hilarious and action-packed journey through Springfield to save Maggie from the clutches of Smithers and Mr. Burns. Super fun beatem up to play through, and  my daughter (6 years old) absoultely loves it. Great family game that has medium replay value, it wont have you itching to play every day but its great to revisit.

Simpsons Bowling however is not a game I remember, nor played in those arcades years ago. The game itself is not too bad and has some fun moments when playing as a group or even for a quick bowl by yourself. The audio however, is terrible in parts which relates more to the  build quality of the machine – which we will discuss later. Its fun and has more of the replayabalility than the beatem up (once you finish it a few times) the graphics  come across a little grainy and rough. But its made up for with the catch lines from your favourite characters. Overall two fun games with medium replayability, if you’re Simpsons fan they are a must play.

Control Panel & Screen

The control panel, arguably the most critical aspect of any arcade machine, features a joystick and buttons that are responsive and well-built. The joystick provides smooth movements, allowing for precise control over your favorite characters. Now I must premise this by saying they are no Happ arcade stick they never will be just due to the price alone.

But, whether you’re smashing your way through hordes of enemies as Homer or throwing strikes with Marge in Bowling. The buttons do their job and the trackball feels smooth and easy to use. The overall build quality of the control deck is on point.

The layout however has definitely been squashed to fit the trackball in and it makes player two and three suffer for it. Player two being the worst of the bunch. Does this ruin things not really the games are still playable and enjoyable but its a shame that Homer (player two) takes the hit. It can make things a little awkward if you have bigger hands. It’s not stopping us play it but its a downside non the less. 

Screen and this is a blessing. The BOE monitor is great colour and pixels are sharp and the scanlines bring back the nostalga I am all about. Unfortunately  this screen didnt make its way into newer machines but thats a whole other conversation.

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