When I first started looking into real working miniatures, I never imagined I’d stumble across functioning mini arcade games.
I’d already been amazed by the tiny, working gadgets you can get for miniature kitchens, but these take things to a whole new level: you can actually play games on them!
Sounds unbelievable? Well, stick around, because I’m about to show you exactly what I mean.
Updated 13.08.2025
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What are Mini Arcade Games?
Mini arcade games are tiny versions of classic arcade cabinets, complete with working screens and controls.
Some are small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, while others are slightly larger but still compact enough for a desk or display.
They come in many designs: from My Arcade’s Micro Player Series (Pac-Man, Galaga, Dig Dug) to Tiny Arcade handhelds and other mini retro cabinets.
Of course, they’re not just for dollhouses; they also work perfectly in dioramas, such as a miniature funfair scene.
What can you use these tiny Arcade machines for in the diorama world?
Mini arcade games can add a fun twist to many dollhouse or diorama scenes. Here are four ideas:
- Carnival or Fair Scene – Create a funfair setting with arcade games, rides, and food stands. Perfect for outdoor dioramas.
- Basement Rec Room (Mancave) – Give your dollhouse a game-filled basement with arcade machines, seating, and maybe a mini bar.
- Game Room Addition – Turn a spare room into a gaming hub with arcade cabinets, a pool table, and a dartboard.
- Retro Diner – Add arcade machines to a nostalgic diner setup. You could even take inspiration from this Barbie diner video by Delightfulldolls.
Where can I find these mini Arcade Games and Machines?
There are several places where you can find these fun items, and I will show you where!
1. Space Invaders Super Impulse Tiny Arcade
Miniature Arcade Games Tiny Arcade Space Invader
Buy Now →Playing Space Invaders in this tiny size is probably a challenge haha!
Details:
- Brand: Tiny Arcade
- Theme: Retro
- Number of Players: Multiplayer
- Dimensions: 2 x 1.5 x 3.5 inches
- Weight: 0.14 lbs
- Scale: Approx. 1:12
- Features: Multi-level gameplay, high-resolution color screen, accurate arcade sounds, runs on 3 AAA batteries.
The good and the bad :
The Good.
- Faithful recreation of the original arcade game, including levels, visuals, and cut scenes.
- Bright, sharp screen for the size.
- Eye-catching cabinet design; works as both a playable game and a display piece.
- Uses replaceable AAA batteries for convenience.
The Bad.
- Lacks original background music and arcade attract mode.
- Controls feel imprecise.
- Occasional crashes during gameplay reduce reliability.
- High scores are not saved after powering off.
2. GRS Build-A-CADE- an Arcade Cabinet kit
The next tiny Arcade game is one that needs to be assembled for the DIY crowd, and comes with a manual.
GRS Build-A-CADE | 1:6 Scale Arcade Cabinet kit for use with Raspberry Pi
Buy Now →
Take a closer look at the specifications:
Extras: Customizable decals, optional control kits, volume knob, headphone port.
Brand: Tsticks
Theme: Retro
Scale: 1:6
Dimensions: 6.02 x 4.22 x 11.02 inches
Screen: 4.3-inch vertical IPS (HDMI output supported)
Material: Plastic
Compatibility: Raspberry Pi 3 or 4 (board not included)
Power: Large-capacity built-in battery
The good and the bad :
The Good.
- Unique, well-designed kit that replicates early ’80s arcade cabinets.
- High-quality joystick (metal) and responsive buttons.
- Bright, sharp display with decent sound quality.
- Clear instructions and quality parts for easy assembly.
- Customization options for decals and controls.
The Bad.
- One tricky alignment step during assembly (no screws or clips).
- Single-button control deck limits gameplay; remapping is often needed.
- Control swapping isn’t quick or easy.
- Top-heavy design could use better weight distribution.
- Battery life is average and may need frequent charging
3. Ms. Pac-Man Micro Player Pro – Mini Arcade Machine
A Pac-Man mini Arcade machine is a necessity in these vintage games, wouldn’t you agree?
My Arcade Ms. Pac-Man Micro Player Pro: 6.75″ Mini Arcade Machine
Buy Now →
Details:
Design: Original Ms. Pac-Man cabinet artwork
Brand: My Arcade
Style: Ms. Pac-Man
Theme: Retro
Scale: ~1:12
Dimensions: 4 x 4.5 x 6.8 inches
Display: 2.75″ high-resolution full-color vertical screen
Power: 4 AA batteries or USB-C cable (both not included)
Audio: Built-in speaker with volume control, 3.5 mm headphone port
Let’s take a closer look at the possible pros and cons of this tiny arcade machine, shall we?
The good and the bad :
The Good.
- Upgraded Version: Features a vertical screen and original arcade ROMs for a more authentic gaming feel.
- Sharp Display: 2.75″ high-resolution full-color vertical screen for clear visuals.
- Authentic Look: Artwork matches the original Ms. Pac-Man arcade cabinet for added nostalgia.
- Flexible Power: Runs on 4 AA batteries or a USB-C cable.
- Audio Options: Built-in speaker with volume control and 3.5 mm headphone port.
The Bad.
- Battery Costs: Regular AA battery replacement can add up unless you use USB power.
- Single Player Only: No multiplayer option for shared play.
- Extras Sold Separately: Batteries and USB-C cable are not included.
- Packaging Issues: Some buyers reported damaged packaging affecting the unit.
My Final Conclusion
I hope that you enjoyed this blog post on mini Arcade games and that you can find one to use in your dollhouse or diorama!
If you have any questions about this topic, please feel free to ask them in the comment section below, or join me on my social media channels below or my cozy Facebook group.
I wish you happy crafting!
Kind regards,
Lizzy
Hi everyone!
My name is Lizzy, and I am an amateur miniaturist obsessed with everything in the dollhouse and miniature world, ever since I was a teenager.
So far, I have created 2 dollhouse projects, a backyard shed and a miniature treehouse, tons of DIY dollhouse kits, and “hacked” some.
I also created a fairy garden, and lots of small and simple miniature projects on my YouTube channel. (mostly made from trash or everyday items).
I love to write as well about all things happening in the miniature world, hence the reason why I created this blog!
I wish you happy reading and crafting!
Lizzy
Very interesting! I knew about miniature houses and furniture, and I’ve seen miniature fridges that work (and can hold a can of coke, I think, nothing else), but I didn’t know about miniature arcade games.
I am not much of a gamer, but I’ve always loved the old games, like Atari and Pacman, and so I would love to try out the miniature Miss Pacman. I just wonder if playing with such a small screen, one might miss certain details of the game or press the wrong button (like when you’re trying to type on your phone and press the wrong letter even though you didn’t mean to) ;-).
Hi Lizzy!
How cute these Mini Arcade games are!! I was stunned to discover them and very surprised that even though it’s tiny, you can play it just like you would a normal-sized game. It may be small, but still really fun to play! What a great addition to miniature dollhouses.
Super informative and quality review of real functioning mini arcade games. Loved learning about them! Thanks!