exA-Arcadia is taking its modern cartridge-based arcade platform to IAAPA 2022 with a new modular cabinet, updated hardware and more than 30 playable games. The system follows the spirit of classic multi-game arcade platforms while giving operators access to contemporary fighting games, shoot ’em ups and other genres.
The modular exA-Arcadia ARC-1 cabinet
exA-Arcadia originally launched as a conversion system for JVS- or JAMMA-compatible cabinets with suitable input/output hardware and monitors. That approach allowed operators to reuse existing equipment, while a limited range of Showcase cabinets was produced with Fun Company.
The new ARC-1 is manufactured at exA-Arcadia’s USA factory and is designed to occupy less floor space. Its modular construction allows operators to select a one-player, two-player or four-player control panel. The monitor can also be rotated between horizontal and vertical orientation in a matter of minutes.
Each cabinet includes a 32-inch 1080p display with a stated 1ms display lag. The system also introduces a newly developed exA-Arcadia JVS I/O board, which extends the standard to reduce control latency. exA-Arcadia describes the result as “Sub 1” input lag, intended to deliver close to zero frames of delay.
IAAPA will provide the cabinet’s major public debut. The exA-Arcadia booth is scheduled to feature 16 ARC-1 cabinets with more than 30 titles available to play.
Pricing, distribution and delivery
The ARC-1 is positioned below the $10,000 mark, placing it in a competitive range for operators. Show pricing was expected to be available at IAAPA, with the cabinets scheduled to ship during 2022 rather than the following year.
New nationwide distributors, including AVS Companies, were due to be announced at the event. Financing was also expected to be available, with prospective buyers directed to their distributor for specific terms.
New arcade games at IAAPA
A cabinet needs strong software to attract players, and exA-Arcadia’s IAAPA line-up includes new releases alongside existing games receiving quality-of-life improvements. These updates are intended to reduce input lag.
Donut Dodo Do!
Donut Dodo Do! is the newly announced title. The original Donut Dodo, available on Steam, draws on the style of early-1980s platform games such as Donkey Kong and Popeye. Players collect donuts across the stages rather than hearts.
The exA-Arcadia edition is described as a complete remake with five stages, exclusive modes and simultaneous two-player play. It is planned as a budget release, with the kit priced below $1,000.
Arcana Heart 3 Xtend
Arcana Heart 3 Xtend is the final version of the 2D fighting game and was scheduled to be playable at a trade show for the first time at IAAPA. Visit the official Arcana Heart 3 Xtend game page for further details.
Jitsu Squad
Jitsu Squad is a four-player beat ’em up that had previously attracted attention during its development. The PC version had recently launched through Epic Games, with console editions expected to follow. Its exA-Arcadia version was set to become playable publicly for the first time at IAAPA.
See the official Jitsu Squad page for more information.
Shinorubi Pink Label
Shinorubi Pink Label is a shoot ’em up first unveiled at a special event in Japan in April. IAAPA marked its first opportunity for visitors to play the title. View the Shinorubi Pink Label game page.
Full IAAPA 2022 game line-up
The exhibition list included 31 titles. Previously released games were also expected to receive input-lag improvements; exA-Arcadia provided a current game version and update list.
- AKA & BLUE TYPE-R
- AKYRIOS EXA
- ARCANA HEART 3 XTEND
- ASTRO NINJA MAN EXA
- BLAZING CHROME AC
- CHAOS CODE EXACT XENO ATTACK
- COSMIC DIGGER 3671
- COTTON ROCK ’n’ ROLL
- CRIMSON KATANA EXA LABEL
- DODONPACHI TRUE DEATH EXA LABEL
- DONUT DODO DO!
- FIGHT OF GODS ARCADE EDITION
- Gimmick! EXACT MIX
- INFINOS EXA
- JITSU SQUAD
- KIRA KIRA STAR NIGHT exa
- THE KUNG FU VS KARATE CHAMP
- Lightning Knights
- NiPPON MARATHON TURBO
- NOISZ ARC CODA
- P-47 ACES MARK II
- PSYVARIAR DELTA AC
- RIVAL MEGAGUN XE
- SAMURAI SHODOWN V PERFECT
- SHADOW GANGS X
- SHIKHONDO RED PURGATORY
- SHINORUBI PINK LABEL
- STRANIA EX
- SUPER BATTLE PRINCESS MADELYN
- Touhou Perfect Sakura Fantastica
- VRITRA HEXA
Where to find exA-Arcadia at IAAPA
exA-Arcadia was scheduled to exhibit at booth 415, opposite Stern Pinball and between Betson/Raw Thrills and Really Big Crane Company. For Australian arcade operators and collectors, the ARC-1 demonstrates how a compact, configurable arcade machine can support both modern releases and refreshed classics.
Readers comparing formats can also explore RETROCADE’s arcade machine buying guide, browse upright arcades or follow the latest stories on the arcade blog.
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