What to Expect When Ordering a Custom Arcade Machine

Ordering a custom-built arcade machine is an exciting venture for enthusiasts, businesses, and event organizers. Whether you grew up with the classics or you’re looking to add a nostalgic touch to your venue or home entertainment setup, a personalized arcade unit offers both style and functionality tailored to your taste. But like any customized product, the process involves multiple steps and decisions. In this guide, we’ll walk through every phase — from the initial inquiry to delivery and installation — to help you understand what to expect when ordering a custom arcade machine from Neo Arcade Machines.

Initial Consultation and Idea Exploration

The journey begins with understanding what you envision. Clients typically approach with a rough idea — it might be a specific game collection, a favorite cabinet style from the '80s, or a desire for branded party hire machines. During the consultation phase, you’ll discuss your preferences with the Neo Arcade Machines team. This includes cabinet type (upright, bartop, cocktail), artwork themes (retro neon, comic book, personal logos), control layout (number of players, buttons, joysticks), and screen size.

We’ll also explore the intended purpose — is it for personal use, hire, commercial display, or a gift? This affects hardware selection and software integration. Clients are encouraged to provide reference photos, links, or even hand-drawn sketches to better express their vision.

Quote and Specification Draft

Once preferences are outlined, our team drafts a detailed specification. This includes dimensions, materials, artwork options, hardware configurations, and pricing. You’ll receive a formal quote that breaks down every component: cabinet construction, screen type, power supply, audio setup, control board, artwork printing, lighting, software, and delivery. Transparent pricing ensures you understand what you're paying for and where custom elements influence cost.

Clients may be offered upgrade options, such as premium sound systems, RGB lighting kits, or additional USB ports. Once you approve the specs and price, we move to the next stage: design mock-ups.

Deposit and Production Queue

To secure your build slot, a deposit is required. This typically ranges between 20%–40% depending on complexity. Once paid, your order enters the production queue. During this stage, our design team may provide mock-ups of the external artwork, button layout, and overall structure.

You’ll be consulted on final details like color matching, logo placement, and vinyl texture. It’s also the last opportunity to make small adjustments before fabrication begins. Larger changes later in the process may incur delays or additional costs, so we encourage thorough review at this point.

Cabinet Construction

Our local Australian workshop begins by cutting and assembling the cabinet using high-quality MDF or laminated wood. We prioritize robust construction and smooth finishing. Depending on your choice, the cabinet may include locking wheels, side vents, or integrated storage compartments.

At this stage, lighting systems (LEDs, RGB strips) and internal power management units are installed. Cabling pathways are routed to ensure internal cleanliness and airflow. This process generally takes 1–2 weeks depending on backlog and cabinet complexity.

Hardware Installation

Once the cabinet is ready, it moves to the technical stage. Screens (typically ranging from 19” to 32”) are mounted securely behind tempered glass. High-performance speakers, amplifier units, and subwoofers are connected. Joysticks and arcade-grade buttons (Sanwa, Zippy, or custom choices) are wired to a control board or encoder.

If you opted for trackballs, light guns, or spinner controls, those are also fitted here. The internal computer or game board (usually a Raspberry Pi, PC, or multi-game JAMMA board) is configured and tested. Power supplies are calibrated to prevent overloads or noise interference.

Artwork and Custom Vinyl Application

Custom artwork is one of the most exciting parts. Once approved, we print high-resolution vinyl side panels, marquee labels, and dashboard decals. These are applied using heat bonding and pressure rollers to ensure bubble-free, durable adhesion.

You can also request UV protection, glossy or matte finishes, and illuminated marquees. We encourage customers to supply high-quality logos or ask for graphic design assistance if unsure. Our team ensures every piece reflects your vision, whether inspired by classic arcades or something entirely unique.

Software Configuration

Neo Arcade Machines provides a curated library of classic arcade games and emulator systems. Game systems are selected based on your use-case and can include NES, SNES, MAME, SEGA, NeoGeo, and more. Menus are styled with custom themes to match your cabinet’s look and feel.

For party hire or commercial setups, systems can be configured to run in attract mode, cycle through demo reels, or launch automatically. Parental controls and save-state functions can also be integrated for families or specific venues.

Testing and Final Quality Checks

Before delivery, every machine undergoes a 48-hour burn-in test. We ensure that all buttons are responsive, video and audio outputs work flawlessly, and software performs reliably under continuous use. Cabinet seams, lighting systems, and artwork finishes are all reviewed for imperfections.

You’ll be contacted for a final confirmation — and if requested, a short video of your arcade machine in action can be sent. Any last-minute questions or adjustments (such as button remapping or game list tweaks) are handled here.

Delivery and Installation

We offer delivery across NSW and selected regions of Australia. Machines are wrapped with foam, corner protectors, and shrink wrap to prevent transport damage. Local customers may opt for on-site setup, where our technician will install and test the machine directly in your space.

For larger commercial orders or interstate delivery, we use freight couriers with liftgate service. Clear setup instructions are provided. Machines are plug-and-play and only require a standard power outlet. In some cases, minor reattachment of control panels or monitors may be necessary upon arrival due to shipping dimensions.

Warranty, Support and Care

All machines from Neo Arcade Machines include a 12-month warranty covering hardware defects, loose wiring, and non-functional components. Our support team is available via phone or email to assist with any questions post-delivery. We also provide maintenance guides for cleaning, software updates, and part replacement.

Clients who opt for party hire or multi-unit packages may also benefit from ongoing servicing contracts or maintenance visits. We’re committed to ensuring your arcade machine continues to perform at its best for years to come.

Timeframes and Expectations

The total production time typically ranges from 3 to 6 weeks, depending on the complexity of the build, backlog, and custom requests. Rush orders may be available on a case-by-case basis. We keep clients updated at every stage via email or text, including updates when entering fabrication, wiring, or artwork phases.

Delays may occur due to supply chain issues (e.g., imported buttons or specialty vinyl), but our team always communicates promptly and offers alternatives where possible.

Final Thoughts

Ordering a custom arcade machine is more than just buying a product — it’s about creating a personal, functional piece of gaming history tailored just for you. Whether it’s a throwback to your favorite childhood game or a centerpiece for your event space, each machine we build is handcrafted with passion, precision, and the client’s vision at its core.

Neo Arcade Machines is proud to offer Australian-built quality with personalized service every step of the way. If you're ready to bring your arcade dream to life, we’re here to guide you from idea to installation.