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What critics’ scores say
VideoGamesCritic reported the OpenCritic average of 84/100 across 10 tracked reviews and a Metacritic score of 74 in a 2026 access snapshot. The figures come from a secondary summary; the available information does not establish that the two aggregators use the same review sample or methodology. VideoGamesCritic’s score summary
OpenCritic’s figure includes its stated sample count, which helps give the average context. The Metacritic figure is reported without a review count in that summary, so it should not be treated as directly comparable. Both numbers are snapshots and may change as review data is updated.
What reviewers praised
Steam reproduces a God Is a Geek excerpt calling the game a “sublime visual novel” and praising its diverse characters, touching themes, and engaging plot; Steam displays the excerpt alongside a 10/10 rating. Steam also reproduces an RPG Fan excerpt praising the choice-heavy structure and replayability, alongside an 82/100 rating. These are selected storefront-quoted excerpts, not a complete survey of critics’ arguments. Steam store page
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#1 Best Overall
- Classic Arcade Experience: Enjoy 12 legendary games from 1981 on a full-size cabinet with real-feel joysticks, buttons, and authentic arcade-style gameplay
- Vibrant 17" Display: Features a crisp BOE 17" LCD screen that brings retro graphics to life with bright colors and sharp details for immersive gaming fun
- Wi-Fi Leaderboards: Connect to Wi-Fi and compete with players nationwide by posting high scores on global leaderboards—no subscription required
- Premium Retro Design: Over 5 feet tall with a sleek cabinet, light-up marquee, and faux coin door for a nostalgic look that enhances any game room or space
- Crisp Stereo Sound: Dual speakers deliver classic arcade soundtracks and effects just like you remember, bringing every game to life with rich audio
What kind of game critics reviewed
Developed by Fiction Factory Games and published by PQube, Arcade Spirits: The New Challengers is a 2022 visual-novel sequel to Arcade Spirits (2019). It imagines an alternate future where arcades never disappeared. The protagonist is an aspiring gamer trying to succeed in the fictional Fist of Discomfort 2 Pro Tour, while spending time with a team at Good Clean Fun, a pizzeria, laundromat, and arcade. Competition, relationships, and an arcade conspiracy shape the story. Official game site Steam store page
The sequel shifts the setting from the original game’s workplace to playing in an arcade. Its focus on esports competition sits alongside the relationship and character-driven storytelling associated with the series, rather than replacing those elements with a conventional sports game structure.
Rank #2
Can you play it without the first game?
Yes. The official site says newcomers can begin with The New Challengers without first playing Arcade Spirits. Playing the 2019 original may provide additional context for the series, but it is not presented as a prerequisite. Official game site
Critic scores versus Steam user reviews
Steam’s user rating is a separate, user-generated measure, not a critic score. Its review count and displayed rating can change over time, so a precise user percentage or count needs an access date. The available information establishes that Steam showed a Very Positive label in captured results, but does not provide a stable figure to compare with the critic aggregates. Steam store page
Rank #3
- RETRO GRAPHICS: Immerse yourself in nostalgia with the Arcade Classics Pac-Man’s classic arcade graphics that look just like the original!
- AUTHENTIC GAMEPLAY: Use the joystick to guide Pac-Man through the mazes as you collect Pac-Dots and power-ups. Just don’t get caught by those sneaky ghosts!
- FULL COLOR SCREEN: With a brighter, full color screen that makes it easy to see the characters and dots, you’ll be cruising through those mazes like a pro.
- CLASSIC MUSIC: Pac-Man fans will love the authentic music and sounds that play just like the original arcade game.
- SHARE AND COLLECT: Arcade Classics are a must-have retro toy for collectors or for anyone looking to share this classic toy with the next generation!
Platforms and release information
Steam lists May 26, 2022 as the PC release date and identifies Fiction Factory Games as developer and PQube as publisher. The official site lists Steam, itch.io, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4 and 5, and Xbox One and Series X. Console release timing may differ from the Steam date. Official game site Steam store page
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 🌿 100% SKIN-SAFE & HIGH QUALITY: Made of high-quality, green paper. Totally safe and non-allergenic for your kid's sensitive skin. Let them play without worries!
- 🎮 MEGA VALUE PACK: Includes 5 Sheets with 60 PCS of pre-cut video game temporary tattoos. Featuring vibrant, adorable gaming characters perfect for boys and girls. Sheet size: 6.3 x 4.7 inches.
- ✨ VERSATILE PARTY DECOR: Not just for skin! Apply these cool gaming stickers to arms, faces, hands, or even smooth surfaces like water bottles, cups, crafts, and stationery. A massive hit for kids' parties!
- 🎁 PERFECT PARTY FAVORS: The ultimate choice for video game themed birthday parties, school classroom rewards, carnival prizes, and goodie bag fillers. Watch your kids 'Level Up' their fun! Affordable bulk pre-cut temporary tattoos under $10 - perfect for classroom rewards, back to school activities, and enough to share with up to 3 classrooms.
- 💧 EASY TO APPLY & REMOVE: Simply wet the tattoo with a sponge for 20-30 seconds. Lasts 3-5 days! Easily removable with baby oil or rubbing alcohol. (Note: Not for highly sensitive skin).
Rank #4
- Officially licensed Atari titles. Titles include Asteroids, Centipede, Millipede, Breakout, Missile Command, Crystal Castles and many more. Game save options.
- Packed with over 200 built-in Atari games + bonus titles. Pac-Man & Galaga not included. Full Game list listed below.
- Includes Atari console, games instructions, 2 wireless joysticks, USB power cable, HDMI cable, and user manual. System connects directly to TV.
- Includes two 2.4 GHz wireless joysticks, inspired by the original Atari joysticks, include paddles for paddle games like Breakout, Warlords and many more.
- User Guide Languages: English, French, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, German, Dutch, Japanese and Arabic. Dynamic RGB LED lights.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
