Acknowledgment: First off, a big shoutout to ChatGPT for helping me turn my notes and ideas into this comprehensive blog post. [My Edits: The above is written by ChatGPT as well]

Introduction:

Hello, fellow gamers and DIY enthusiasts! Today, I’m thrilled to share the process of building a 2-player Arcade Gaming Console. This project not only rekindled my childhood memories but also challenged the creativity and technical skills. I chose to create a tabletop version for its space-saving convenience and adaptability to various table heights.

Part 1: The Electronic and Software Side

Starting with a Prototype:

Before diving into the full build, I began with a prototype focusing on the electronics and software.

Materials for the Prototype:

1. Raspberry Pi
2. Card Reader (for installing RetroPie OS)
3. Arcade Buttons, Joystick & Controller
   • Useful resource: Slagcoin
   • My choice: Amazon Purchase
4. Prototype Board (repurposed vegetable cutter)
5. Monitor

The Build Process:

This process probably takes 4 hours in total if done right.

• Drilling 1.1-inch holes into the vegetable cutter board for six buttons and a joystick.

• Assembling the buttons and joystick and connecting them to the USB controller.
• Installing RetroPie OS on the Raspberry Pi (Installation guide: RetroPie Documentation)
• Configuring the Pi (Wi-Fi and location settings).
• Downloading ROMs from sites like MAMEDEV and setting up the emulation folders.

Configuring Controllers:

For a two-player setup, I used a PS4 controller along with the custom-built one. The configuration was straightforward, covering the primary buttons (A, B, X, Y, Start, Select, and Directions).

Part 2: The Woodwork

Transitioning from Prototype to Product:

With the electronics & software sorted, it was time to focus on the console’s wooden structure.

Materials for the Console:

1. All items from the prototype, including a 19-inch Dell monitor.
2. Speakers, Extension Power Cord, Power Tools (Drill, Sander, Circular Saw), Clamps, Wood Glue, Hammer, Measurement Tools.
3. Materials for Painting and Exterior Design (Brushes, Primer, Wooden Sticker).
4. MDF board – 1/2 inch thickness, Dowels.

Detailed Woodwork Process:

• Design and Cutting:

  • I used the layout design from an Instructables blog.
  • Using the circular saw, cut the MDF boards to size based on the layout design.
  • The side walls, with their curved edges, were particularly challenging, requiring precision and patience.

• Assembly and Gluing:

  • Dowels were used to align and strengthen the joints between different parts.
  • I applied wood glue generously and used clamps to hold the pieces together, allowing ample time for the glue to set.

• Building the Control Panel:

  • The control panel required meticulous design, ensuring enough space for two players.
  • I drilled holes for the buttons and joystick, testing their placement for ease of play.

Final Touches:

• Painting (actually only Priming):

  • I chose a primer to prepare the surface, followed by a wooden sticker for a polished look.
  • The choice of a neutral color scheme was intentional, allowing for future customization.

• Stickers

  • Wooden stickers are used only for the Control Panels to give a wooden feel back after priming.

• Wiring and Electronics Installation:

  • Organizing and neatly routing the wires was crucial for both aesthetics and functionality.
  • I ensured easy access to the control panel for future maintenance.

• Lighting and Aesthetics:

  • The console’s lighting was an essential element. I cut out letters from the wooden sticker and positioned a tube light behind them for a glowing effect.
  • The lighting not only added to the visual appeal but also brought the console to life.

Conclusion:

The final product is a testament to the blend of nostalgia and modern technology, a 2-player Arcade Gaming Console that brings endless hours of joy. This journey has been immensely rewarding, and I hope it inspires you to create your own gaming masterpiece!

Happy gaming!