How to Build Your Own Bartop 2-Player Arcade Cabinet

This guide will guide you through the steps to create a bartop 2 player arcade cabinet, from materials and the design to assembly and your software setup.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials and Tools

Materials Needed:

Plywood or MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) – Should be ¾” thick for the cabinet frame

Acrylic or Plexiglass – for the monitor cover and marquee

LCD Monitor – 19” to 24” is recommended

Arcade Controls – Two joysticks, multiple arcade buttons, and encoder boards

Raspberry Pi or PC – Raspberry Pi 4 with RetroPie could be an amazing budget-friendly choice for you!

Power Strip – For managing all the power inside your cabinet

Speakers – Small USB or powered speakers will work well, you don't want them that big.

LED Strip (Optional) – For nice marquee lighting

Tools You Need:

Jigsaw or Circular Saw – The Saws are for cutting the wood panels

Drill with Bits – For screwing and mounting components

Router (Optional) – You need it to create T-molding grooves for a professional looking finish

Screwdriver Set – For putting together the cabinet

Clamps – To hold pieces together during assembly

Sandpaper/Paint – Meant for smoothing and finishing the cabinet nicely

Step 2: Design and Cut the Cabinet Pieces

Plan Your Design:

We recommended you use online templates or create your own cabinet design in software like SketchUp.

Common dimensions for a bartop machine are around 24” wide, 18” deep, and 24” high.

Cut the Wood Panels:

Side panels (two identical pieces)

Top and bottom panels

Control panel

Front and back panels

Marquee section (optional)

Create Openings:

Cut a hole for the monitor to go using its exact dimensions.

Drill th.machines button holes in the control panel using a hole saw (typically 1-1/8” for arcade buttons).

Cut a vent hole in the back panel for heat dissipation.

Step 3: Assemble the Cabinet Together

Attach the Side Panels to the Bottom Panel using wood screws and wood glue.

Mount the Front and Back Panels securely so their reliable 

Install the Control Panel at a comfortable angle, this will depend on your height.

Attach the Top Panel and Marquee Section if you made.

Secure your Monitor inside the machine by using a VESA mount or wooden brackets.

You should test fit everything before finalizing the assembly permanently.

Step 4: Install Electronics and Controls

Install the Machine Controls:

Secure the joysticks and buttons to the control panel.

Next pair them to an encoder board (such as a USB Zero Delay Encoder for Raspberry Pi).

Install the Machine Monitor:

Insert the monitor behind the cutout you made.

Secure it with brackets or screws.

Set Up the Speakers:

You should add them near the marquee or front panel.

Connect them to the Raspberry Pi or PC.

Power Management:

Use a power strip inside the cabinet to power all the electronics of the machine

Route cables neatly to avoid clutter.

Step 5: Install Software and Configure Controls

Choose Your System:

Raspberry Pi: Install RetroPie for an easy arcade emulator setup.

PC: Use software like LaunchBox, MAME, or Batocera for proper arcade emulation.

Load Your ROMs:

Transfer legally obtained game ROMs into the appropriate folders of the system.

Configure All the Controls:

Use RetroPie’s menu to map your buttons for Player 1 and Player 2.

Test Machine Gameplay:

Start up the machine and test all the different games.

Make adjustments as needed.

Step 6: Final Touches and Customization

Paint or Vinyl Wrap the Cabinet:

Use spray paint or vinyl graphics for a real professional look.

Add Your T-molding (Optional):

Use a router to create a groove and install T-molding for a polished and finished arcade feel.

Install a Marquee Light (Optional):

LED strips can illuminate a custom marquee beautifully.

Final Testing:

Playtest the system to ensure everything works smoothly.

Conclusion

Building a bartop 2-player arcade cabinet is a very challenging yet enjoyable project that brings retro gaming to life. With the right materials, tools, and patience, you can definitely create a customized arcade machine tailored to your gaming preferences. Whether you're reliving classic games or introducing a new generation to arcade fun, your homemade cabinet will be a unique and rewarding addition to any game room.

 

Would you appreciate recommendations on where to buy arcade parts or cabinet templates?

We Recommend: Focus Attack | Paradise Arcade Shop