Resolution Games is launching a new retro arcade experience called Retrocade on February 5 for Apple Arcade, arriving on Apple Vision Pro, iPhone, and iPad.
It’s a virtual arcade hub that wraps a selection of classic coin-op games inside a neon-lit, stylised arcade space. You don’t just pick a game from a menu — you walk up to a cabinet and play it, at least in VR. On phones and tablets, it’s a more traditional interface, but the same games are included.
Asteroids, Galaga, and more
At launch, Retrocade will feature well-known arcade titles including:
- Asteroids
- Bubble Bobble
- Centipede
- Galaga
- Space Invaders
- Pac-Man
- Breakout
The focus is on short sessions, chasing high scores, and easy pick-up-and-play design — basically the same reasons arcades worked in the first place, minus the need for pockets full of change.
It’s part of Apple Arcade, Apple’s subscription service that gives access to a large library of games for a monthly fee, and it supports full spatial play on Apple Vision Pro as well as standard 2D play on iPhone and iPad.
The arcade we remember… without the bits you can’t fake
On paper, Retrocade sounds like a dream for anyone who grew up feeding coins into cabinets. You get the games, the lights, the sounds, and the cabinet shapes.
What you don’t get is the smell.
Real arcades had a very specific atmosphere. Sticky carpets that felt slightly damp no matter the weather. Buttons worn smooth and gunked up from years of use. A permanent cloud of cigarette smoke hanging in the air.
And in the UK, there was often something else drifting through the noise — the echo of a bingo caller from the next room. “All the twos…” floating over laser sounds and attract-mode jingles. It was strange, loud, and unforgettable.
Retrocade can recreate the look and the sound, but not that. It can’t give you a joystick that feels like it might snap off. It can’t give you a button that only works if you hit it just right. And it can’t give you the smell of smoke and old carpet.
(I’m told that’s probably a blessing, but I’m not convinced…)
A cleaner version of the past
What Retrocade is really offering is a polished memory of the arcade. The fun bits, without the grime and button gunk (what the hell was that anyway?!)
Retrocade launches on February 5 on Apple Vision Pro, iPhone, and iPad via Apple Arcade. For the full sticky floor effect, maybe play in your local Wetherspoons?
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Christian Cawley is the founder and editor of GamingRetro.co.uk, a website dedicated to classic and retro gaming. With over 20 years of experience writing for technology and gaming publications, he brings considerable expertise and a lifelong passion for interactive entertainment, particularly games from the 8-bit and 16-bit eras.
Christian has written for leading outlets including TechRadar, Computer Weekly, Linux Format, and MakeUseOf, where he also served as Deputy Editor.
When he’s not exploring vintage consoles or retro PCs, Christian enjoys building with LEGO, playing cigar box guitar, and experimenting in the kitchen.
