16 Forgotten Sports Arcades from the ’90s
Many sports arcade games from the 1990s were once popular in game centers but are now mostly forgotten.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 5 min read
The 1990s saw a wide range of sports arcade machines that attracted both gamers and sports fans. These machines covered basketball, football, baseball, and other sports, offering fast-paced and competitive play. Over time, most of them disappeared as home consoles and new entertainment replaced arcades.
1. NBA Jam (Arcade Cabinet Version)
National Basketball Association on Wikimedia Commons
NBA Jam was known for its fast action, over-the-top dunks, and two-on-two gameplay. The arcade version supported four players, making it popular among groups. Its loud sound effects and bright visuals made it stand out in arcades. Later versions were made for consoles, but the original cabinet faded from public spaces.
2. NFL Blitz
Piotrus on Wikimedia Commons
This football game featured hard hits, fast plays, and simplified rules. The arcade version let players pick real NFL teams and compete in short, intense matches. It was known for exaggerated moves and wild animations. Although still remembered, the original machine is now rarely seen.
3. Track & Field
Peterklinex on Wikimedia Commons
This Olympic-style game used buttons to simulate running, jumping, and throwing. Players would rapidly press buttons to beat records. It supported multiplayer competition, which made it popular in tournaments. Over time, newer sports games replaced it.
4. Sega Soccer Superstars
Factor 5, Konami on Wikimedia Commons
This arcade game let players control national soccer teams in fast-paced matches. The graphics were advanced for its time, and the gameplay was smooth and responsive. It wasn’t as well-known as console soccer games, but it had a loyal fanbase. It slowly disappeared as soccer titles moved to home systems.
5. Super Shot Basketball
Engin Akyurt on Pexels
This arcade setup used real basketballs and a moving hoop. Players scored points by sinking as many shots as possible in a short time. It was found in arcades, malls, and sports centers. Many machines have been removed or replaced with newer versions.
6. World Class Bowling
Joe Mabel on Wikimedia Commons
This game used a trackball to simulate rolling a bowling ball. It supported up to four players and had realistic scoring. The physical motion made it fun and different from button-based games. It became rare as virtual bowling moved to consoles and smartphones.
7. Punch-Out!! (Arcade Version)
Rob Boudon on Wikimedia Commons
This boxing game used two screens to show the ring and stats. Players faced a series of opponents, each with a different style. Timing and pattern recognition were key to winning. Later console versions became more well-known than the arcade original.
8. Virtual Striker
joho345 on Wikimedia Commons
Virtual Striker was a 3D soccer game with bright colors and licensed teams. It was easy to play but had depth for serious players. Many arcades had it in the late 1990s. The series continued, but earlier arcade versions became rare.
9. Alpine Racer
Dltl2010 on Wikimedia Commons
This skiing arcade machine had players stand on ski-like footpads and lean side to side to control movement. It featured fast slopes, gates, and time challenges. The large cabinet and physical controls made it stand out. As arcades closed, so did these machines.
10. Sega Bass Fishing (Arcade Version)
Tony Austin on Wikimedia Commons
This fishing game had a rod-and-reel controller to simulate real casting and reeling. It featured lakes, different lures, and multiple fish species. The arcade version offered a unique hands-on experience. It later moved to consoles but the original cabinet faded away.
11. Hyper Sports
Dick Thomas Johnson on Wikimedia Commons
This Konami game followed Track & Field and added new events like swimming and gymnastics. It used the same button-mashing gameplay style. It was fun for groups and had Olympic-style competition. Most arcades no longer carry this older title.
12. Virtua Tennis (Arcade Version)
Wilhelm Joys Andersen on Wikimedia Commons
Virtua Tennis had smooth animation, licensed players, and simple controls. It was easy to learn but took skill to master. The arcade version was very popular before console ports took over. Cabinets have become rare as newer tennis games arrived.
13. Slap Shot Hockey
Luke on Wikimedia Commons
This game used a puck and stick setup to mimic real air hockey. Players scored points by hitting targets or goals. The setup was large and noisy, drawing attention. Most venues replaced it with smaller, digital air hockey tables.
14. Capcom Bowling
Michael Barera on Wikimedia Commons
Players used a trackball to simulate bowling angles and speed. It was simple but competitive, especially in multiplayer. Graphics were basic, but gameplay was solid for its time. It disappeared as interest moved to more realistic simulations.
15. World Stadium (Namco)
Mikechie Esparagoza on Pexels
This Japanese baseball arcade game allowed players to pitch and hit using cartoon-style characters. It supported both solo and head-to-head modes. Its humor and simplicity made it fun for casual players. It had limited release outside Japan, so few cabinets survive.
16. Taito Grand Champion
ElCapitanBSC on Wikimedia Commons
This was a racing arcade machine with a strong sports theme focused on time trials. Players used a steering wheel and pedals to race on various tracks. While more of a motorsport game, it was grouped with sports arcades in the 1990s. The cabinet is now extremely hard to find.