This is the the story of a fascination turned half-baked idea turned quest for authenticity, style and beer: The arcade cabinet.

The reason: a full set of Mame.

The project: build an arcade cabinet.

The goal: complete it by my 32 1/2 th birthday and throw a party to celebrate.

The twist is that there are some pretty weak-looking cabinets out there. I wanted to create something authentic, yet modern, well-featured, but not dripping with every possible joystick and trackball ever seen. I wanted a clean, classic, striking look, with flexibility to play most games properly and the rest well enough.

What does that mean in practice? First and foremost, arcade-standard 2-player controls (some things are just better with two of you) from X-Arcade. Second, the ultra-traditional mirror-projection for the screen - telly in a box just doesn't do it. Third, all-black with red edging and air-brushed side-art for that true 80s look. Finally, some budget, inordinate attention to detail and plenty of patience!