Retro Gaming Lingo Explained: A Beginner’s Guide

Whether you're hiring an arcade machine for the first time or just dipping your toes into the world of retro gaming, you might hear some terms that leave you scratching your head. From coin-op classics to button mashers, arcade culture has its own unique language — but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

Here’s a handy guide to some of the most common retro gaming terms, explained in plain English.

1. Coin-Op

Short for “coin-operated,” this term refers to the traditional arcade machines that start up once you pop in a coin or token. Most hire machines today are set to free play — no coins needed!

2. 1UP / 2UP

These refer to player numbers — 1UP is player one, 2UP is player two, and so on. In many games, you’ll see this on the screen when it’s your turn to play.

3. High Score

It’s the ultimate bragging right. The high score is the best score achieved on a machine — some games even let you enter your initials if you top the leaderboard.

4. Joystick

A classic arcade control stick, used to move your character or navigate the game. Unlike modern console controllers, arcade joysticks are often big, bold and satisfyingly tactile.

5. Button Mashing

A (usually frantic) way of playing games where you press buttons as fast as you can — particularly common in fighting games like Street Fighter II or Mortal Kombat.

6. Side-Scroller

A type of game where your character moves from left to right across the screen — think Double Dragon or Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

7. Beat ‘Em Up

A game where the main action is, well… beating things up. Players typically fight waves of enemies, often in side-scrolling levels. Great fun for multiplayer sessions!

8. Trackball

Some arcade machines (like Centipede or Missile Command) use a trackball instead of a joystick. It’s a smooth ball you roll with your hand to control movement.

9. Cabinet

This refers to the full arcade unit — including the screen, controls, and housing. You’ll often hear terms like upright cabinet, cocktail cabinet (tabletop style), or bartop cabinet (small format).

10. Continue? (Countdown Timer)

Ever seen that “Continue?” screen with a countdown after your game ends? It’s your chance to put in another coin and keep playing from where you left off — or walk away in dramatic defeat.

Bonus: What’s a Multigame Cabinet?

These modern machines are packed with hundreds of classic titles in one unit. Ideal for parties or events where guests want variety — and very popular for hire.

Why Knowing the Lingo Helps

Understanding a few key terms helps make the most of your arcade experience — especially if you're hiring a machine for an event. It makes setup smoother, gameplay more fun, and you’ll sound like a seasoned gamer in no time.

Thinking about hiring a machine?
We’ll handle all the setup — you just bring the enthusiasm (and maybe a bit of button mashing). Get in touch to book today.