Discover the top 20 most loved arcade games that defined a generation

Think you know your shoot ’em ups from your Street Fighters?

Put your arcade knowledge to the test to see if you can correctly guess these questions about games from years gone by.

It comes after a poll of 2,000 Brits found Pac-Man, Space Invaders and Super Mario Bros are the most iconic arcade games of all time. Classic arcade amusements like pinball (16%) Tetris (15%) and Donkey Kong (nine%) also made the list.

A spokesperson for OLBG, which commissioned the research, said: “Old arcade games are great fun. For millions, they’re a reminder of happy, carefree memories of childhood”

Sadly, one in three adults wish they could play some of these games more often than they do – as half haven’t played arcade games in years. 

The spokesperson added: “Older arcade games also often have a simplicity that’s missing in modern life, from video games to all other aspects of being an adult.”

Even though 75% of those polled claim it’s not about winning when you go to an arcade – a ruthless 49% admit they get overly competitive.

Can you correctly guess these games?

Other iconic arcade games beloved of Brits include the controversial – at the time – fighting game Mortal Kombat, and space-blaster Asteroids.

Puzzle-types topped the list of preferred genres for 29%. With just under a quarter (23%) rating shoot ‘em ups like Space Invaders, and 20% always opt for a platforming adventure.

Around a fifth (21%) have fond memories of the sounds of laughter from friends gathering around a machine.

OLBG’s spokesperson added: “There are different kinds of amusements to be found at arcades, that all have different pros and cons.

“Classic games like Donkey Kong are fun for trying to beat your high score, more physical games like air hockey can let you face off against friends and family.

“And there are games of chance or skill like claw machines or slot machines, where you might even win a prize. All these add up to make one of the most nostalgic experiences you can have.”