The Strong, an accredited museum located in Rochester, New York, is dedicated to the preservation of over 300 arcade games and pinball tables. Martin Reinhardt, an experienced arcade technician, sheds light on the challenges of preserving arcade titles, emphasizing that they are the hardest games to maintain due to their quick wear and emulation limitations.
Despite the difficulties, a passionate community exists for preserving arcade games, as seen through The Strong’s efforts. The museum’s approach to preservation is characterized by its commitment to reversibility, exemplified by the meticulous treatment of cabinet-side artwork.
The use of 3D printing has also played a crucial role in salvaging games with weak components, such as Bally Hill Climb, an electro-mechanical game from the 70s. This innovative approach ensures the continued playability of vintage games that would otherwise be at risk.
Reinhardt underscores the museum’s dedication to running original hardware whenever possible, emphasizing the importance of planning ahead for future preservation needs. This forward-thinking approach extends to even their most iconic game, Tetris Giant, which poses a challenge due to the scarcity of replacement parts.
Despite past concerns about the future of arcade game preservation, The Strong serves as a beacon of hope for arcade game enthusiasts, demonstrating that efforts are being made in the United States to ensure the longevity of these classic games.
