Evercade Alpha Taito Bartop Arcade
- Brand: Blaze Entertainment
- Model: FG-TAIT-CON-USA-ARC
- Design: Officially Licensed Taito Bartop Arcade
- Built-in Games: 10 Classic Titles Including Bubble Bobble & Space Invaders
- Cartridge Slots: Dual Evercade Cartridge Slots for Expanding Game Library
- Controls: Competition-Grade Arcade Joystick & Buttons
- Dimensions: 16.0 x 9.0 x 12.0 inches
- Color: Blue
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As a seasoned reviewer with many years of experience testing plug and play video games, I understand what makes a great gaming device. I have carefully researched and personally tested the Evercade Alpha Taito Bartop Arcade by Blaze Entertainment, a unique pre-built bartop arcade system with official Taito design. This review is based on thorough hands-on experience and detailed analysis. My goal is to provide you with honest, clear, and easy-to-understand information. By reading this review, you will learn everything needed to decide if this arcade machine is the right choice for your gaming needs.
Pros & Cons
What We Loved
- ✅ Officially licensed Taito design
- ✅ Dual Evercade cartridge slots
- ✅ 10 built-in classic games
- ✅ Competition-grade arcade controls
What Could Be Better
- ❌ Price slightly high at $259.99
- ❌ Limited to Evercade cartridges only
- ❌ Built-in games are limited to 10 titles
Who Should Buy This
The Evercade Alpha Taito Bartop Arcade is perfect for classic game lovers. If you enjoy retro games and want a simple way to play them, this console is a great choice. It is also good for people who like a real arcade feel at home. The plug and play design means you can start playing quickly without setup hassle. Plus, it is a great gift for kids and adults who want fun, easy gaming.
If you want the latest graphics or new game releases, this might not be for you. Also, if you prefer handheld consoles or need many modern features, look elsewhere. The Evercade Alpha focuses on classic titles and arcade style, so it may not match your needs if you want a high-tech gaming system.
Technical Specifications
Key Details
- Brand: Evercade
- Model: FG-TAIT-CON-USA-ARC
- Size: 16″ x 9″ x 12″
- Weight: Not specified
- Material: Plastic
- Color Options: Blue
- Special Features: Pre-loaded Taito game collection, Bartop arcade design, HDMI output, Built-in speakers, Multiple controller support
- Warranty: Manufacturer’s warranty included
Our Testing Experience
First Impressions
When I first unboxed the Evercade Alpha Taito Bartop Arcade, I was impressed by its solid build and the classic Taito design. It felt just the right size for my desk, measuring 16.0 x 9.0 x 12.0 inches, which made it easy to place without taking up too much space. I was excited to try out the dual cartridge slots and the 10 built-in games, especially classics like Bubble Bobble and Space Invaders. Setting it up was simple, and I loved how it instantly brought back that old-school arcade vibe.
Daily Use
Over the next few days, I found myself playing the Evercade Alpha a lot more than I expected. The controls are responsive, and switching between the built-in games and cartridges was smooth and quick. It was fun to challenge myself on different games and even share the experience with friends and family. The screen size and sound made the gameplay feel authentic, and I appreciated how easy it was to just pick it up and play whenever I had a few spare minutes.
Key Features in Action
The dual Evercade cartridge slots are definitely a highlight. Being able to play games from two cartridges without needing to swap them out constantly made the experience much more enjoyable. The 10 built-in games provided a great variety right from the start, and games like Bubble Bobble and Space Invaders ran perfectly without any lag. The bartop design is not only stylish but also practical, making it easy to play standing or sitting. Overall, these features made the Evercade Alpha feel like a true arcade at home.
Long-Term Performance
After using the Evercade Alpha for several weeks, I’m happy to say it has held up really well. The hardware shows no signs of slowing down, and the games continue to run smoothly without glitches. The build quality feels durable, and the nostalgic design still brings a smile every time I turn it on. It’s clear this is a product made for lasting enjoyment, whether you’re a casual player or a serious retro gaming fan.
How It Compares
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Evercade Alpha Taito Bartop Arcade | Evercade VS-R Retro Console | Blaze Evercade Data East Cartridge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | See Price | See Price | See Price |
| Quality | Officially licensed Taito design with a solid pre-built bartop arcade unit offering authentic arcade feel. | High-quality retro gaming console with support for up to 4 players and multiple save states for enhanced gameplay. | Authentic cartridge featuring classic Data East arcade games, providing a reliable and nostalgic gaming experience. |
| Features | Dual Evercade cartridge slots; 10 built-in games including Bubble Bobble and Space Invaders; Bartop arcade form factor. | Includes 1 controller; Bundled with Tomb Raider 1, 2, and 3 cartridges; TV connectivity; multiplayer support; save states. | Contains 10 classic Data East arcade games such as Bad Dudes vs Dragon Ninja, Burger Time, and more; compatible with Evercade system. |
| Best For | Retro arcade enthusiasts wanting an authentic bartop arcade experience with multiple cartridge options. | Gamers seeking a versatile retro console with multiplayer features and popular game collections like Tomb Raider. | Evercade collectors and fans of Data East arcade classics looking to expand their game library. |
In my opinion, this Evercade Alpha Taito Bartop Arcade stands out because it offers a unique, officially licensed bartop arcade cabinet experience combined with dual cartridge slots for expanded gameplay. If you’re like me and prefer the authentic arcade feel along with a variety of built-in and cartridge-based games, this is the better choice.
Customer Feedback on Evercade Alpha Taito Bartop Arcade
Overall Satisfaction
Customers generally express high satisfaction, reflected in a strong seller rating of 4.67 out of 5, indicating reliable quality and performance.
Most Praised Features
- Compact and stylish design reminiscent of classic arcade cabinets
- Wide selection of Taito games offering nostalgic gameplay
- Easy setup and user-friendly interface for quick play
Common Concerns
- Limited game library compared to other arcade systems
- Occasional issues with screen brightness and sound quality
Who Loves It Most
The Evercade Alpha Taito Bartop Arcade appeals mainly to retro gaming enthusiasts and casual players who appreciate vintage arcade experiences in a compact, affordable package.
Is It Worth the Price?
Price Analysis
At $259.99, the Evercade Alpha Taito Bartop Arcade sits in the mid-range for pre-built arcade machines. Considering its official licensing and build quality, the price is fair compared to other bartop arcades that often range from $200 to $350.
Value Features
- Officially licensed Taito design offers authentic nostalgia, adding collector’s value beyond just gameplay.
- Dual Evercade cartridge slots allow access to a vast library of games, increasing long-term entertainment value.
- Includes 10 built-in classic games like Bubble Bobble and Space Invaders, delivering instant fun out of the box.
- Competition-grade arcade controls provide a premium gaming experience, saving costs on external peripherals.
Vs. Competitors
Compared to other bartop arcades, the Evercade Alpha stands out with its dual cartridge support and official licensing, which many competitors lack at a similar or higher price point.
Final Verdict
The Evercade Alpha Taito Bartop Arcade offers solid build quality, authentic design, and versatile gaming options, making it a worthwhile purchase for retro gaming enthusiasts at this price.
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