Andamiro is preparing to bring Pump It Up Phoenix 2 2026 to arcades, with the South Korean launch scheduled for 9 July 2026 and the United States release following on 20 July 2026. The new edition expands the long-running dance rhythm series with fresh content, new player features and a connection to the franchise’s PC release.
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Pump It Up Phoenix 2 features
First launched in 1999, Pump It Up established a particularly strong following in South Korea and Latin America. The series also remained visible in North American arcades after several competing rhythm-dance games stopped receiving official releases there. It was frequently one of the few active rhythm titles represented at events such as IAAPA and AEI.
The Phoenix edition debuted in 2023 and has continued to receive both small and substantial software updates. Phoenix 2 becomes the eighteenth version of Pump It Up, adding new songs, revised ratings, interface changes and a new Rival mode.
One of the major additions is step-chart integration with the PC version of the game, Pump It Up R!se. The system is designed to let players switch between conventional arcade content and material connected to the Steam release.
Phoenix 2’s dual-mode approach links arcade play with R!SE content. After connecting through Steam, players can access tracks exclusive to the PC title as well as extra charts created for the arcade experience. The aim is to give the series a more continuous presence across arcade locations and home platforms.
The launch trailer highlights the incoming music selection, including new Original, K-Pop and World Music tracks.
The reverse side of the sales flyer also outlines the game’s features.
Pump It Up Phoenix 2 cabinet and upgrade options
For operators, Phoenix 2 is shown running in Andamiro’s LX cabinet design, offered in both white and black finishes. Existing Phoenix machines can be upgraded with an SSD kit ordered through an authorised Andamiro distributor.
The software is also compatible with the CX, TX and FX Pump It Up cabinet versions. Those machines require a different update kit, so operators will need to confirm the appropriate hardware package before ordering.
The United States release is set for 20 July, although orders can already be placed. Cabinet details and the upgrade information are shown in the sales material below.
What happens to the original Phoenix servers?
Andamiro has advised that the original Phoenix online server will eventually be retired as Phoenix 2 rolls out. A separate announcement will provide the shutdown date, allowing operators and players time to prepare.
Once online support ends, legacy Phoenix cabinets will still be playable locally. Operators should therefore distinguish between the loss of server-connected functions and the continued ability to run the installed game on site.
For anyone comparing cabinet formats or planning an arcade installation, RETROCADE’s arcade machine buying guide covers the practical points to consider. Our arcade repairs and maintenance service is also relevant for operators managing older rhythm-game hardware.
Availability and operator interest
Andamiro is expected to promote Phoenix 2 at upcoming trade shows, including IAAPA, though the game should reach a range of arcade locations before those events take place.
No pricing has been provided. Final costs are expected to vary between distributors, and the commercial impact of the R!SE connection will be worth watching once the new version is operating in more venues.
Will Phoenix 2’s new music, Rival mode and PC integration make it a worthwhile upgrade for Pump It Up operators?
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