Touhou Scarlet Diabolique Fantastica brings the sixth Touhou PC game to exA-Arcadia hardware, with enhanced presentation, lower input lag and two software-kit options for arcade operators and collectors.
Touhou moves from PC to the arcade
The Touhou series began in Japan and has built a particularly strong following there. For much of its history, the bullet-hell shoot ’em ups were associated with PC releases, but exA-Arcadia introduced the series to arcades with Touhou Perfect Sakura Fantastica in 2022.
Touhou Scarlet Diabolique Fantastica launched in Japan on 21 March 2024 and is now available for pre-order in other regions. It is the second Touhou arcade release, following the earlier game’s adaptation of the seventh PC entry.
For readers unfamiliar with the source material, this arcade edition is based on the 6th game in the PC series. The exA-Arcadia version updates the visuals, reduces input delay and adds performances from recognised anime voice actors. The official game page can be found here.
Features and play modes
The arcade conversion is directed by Team Shanghai Alice and developed by exA-Arcadia’s TEAM EXA-AM5. Its main features include:
- Four selectable characters, each with an individual story and voice acting
- Input latency reduced to two frames, described as three times faster than the PC version
- Support for horizontal orientation or TATE mode, with TATE recommended for the best experience
- New information gadgets
- Original, Extra and Score Attack modes
- Both original and newly arranged soundtrack material
- New character voices from 12 professional anime voice actors
- Two available kit configurations
Operators preparing an installation should also consider the cabinet format, monitor orientation and controls. Our arcade machine buying guide offers broader advice for planning a home or commercial setup, while arcade parts may be useful when reviewing control-panel requirements.
Standard and Limited kits
Buyers can choose between Standard and Limited software kits. Regional ordering arrangements vary; in parts of Europe, for example, customers may need to use an authorised exA distributor such as Red Sun Systems.
Standard kits are $1857 plus freight. The package includes two posters, game instructions, a marquee header for American cabinets, a Vewlix marquee and stickers, plus a red cartridge rather than the usual black cartridge.
Limited kits are currently $2267USD. In addition to the Standard contents, this version includes an exA Sanwa joystick kit and four POP standees, with one representing each playable character.
Where will it appear?
According to Arcade Belgium’s exA game tracker, most copies of both Touhou arcade titles are located in Japan. Four United States venues currently have the first game, so its performance may influence whether those locations add Scarlet Diabolique Fantastica.
For Australian operators, existing exA locations provide a practical starting point. Playing the titles already installed can demonstrate local demand before requesting another shmup. If current shoot ’em ups attract little play, an operator has less reason to invest in an additional release; strong attendance sends the opposite signal.
Collectors planning a dedicated setup can browse arcade machines or compare upright arcades when considering the right cabinet environment for a vertical shooter.
With its reduced latency, TATE support, expanded audio presentation and two kit tiers, Touhou Scarlet Diabolique Fantastica is a notable exA-Arcadia release for operators and Touhou fans watching the international arcade market.
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