Matthew Lillard’s Arcade Memories: From Dragon’s Lair to FIFA

Matthew Lillard’s arcade memories, from Dragon’s Lair to FIFA

Matthew Lillard has a busy schedule, but he still finds time for video games. Ahead of the Scream 7 premiere, we met the actor at videogamesnewyork to revisit the games that have shaped his gaming life.

From arcade defeats to family gaming

Lillard remembers being thoroughly beaten by Dragon’s Lair in the arcades when he was young. The game’s difficulty left an impression, even if it did not turn him into a highly competitive player.

These days, he is happy to pick up a controller for a match of FIFA whenever he gets some downtime. He also plays Apex Legends, where his son often carries him through the action.

Lillard is open about his ability—or lack of it—but that is not the point for him. The enjoyment comes from playing, sharing the experience and having fun, whether the game is on an classic arcade cabinet or a modern console.

Watch the Shelf Quest episode

This episode takes a walk through Lillard’s gaming memories, connecting early arcade experiences with the games he enjoys with his family today. For more arcade-focused viewing, explore RETROCADE’s arcade video collection.

The conversation also sits neatly alongside the wider appeal of home arcade gaming: a good game does not need to be played perfectly to be worth revisiting. Players considering their own setup can use the arcade machine buying guide to compare the options.

For those drawn to the feel of a traditional cabinet, RETROCADE’s arcade machines provide another way to bring that style of play home. Smaller rooms may suit the compact format of bartop arcades.

More Shelf Quest episodes

• Samara Weaving: Shelf Quest Episode 5, with a running time of 9:27.
• Lego Pokémon Smart Play Sets: a hands-on video with a running time of 1:04.
• Sadie Sink: a video about what she can and cannot say about Spider-Man: Brand New Day, running for 3:07.

Lillard’s takeaway is simple: whether you are tackling Dragon’s Lair, playing FIFA or relying on a teammate in Apex Legends, the fun matters more than the scoreboard.