Two years ago, Coleco launched a Kickstarter campaign to create a new version of its Mini Arcade machines from the ’80s, with their signature hard shells and large bases (pictured above). The successful campaign raised $71,246 — more than doubling its $30,000 goal. This campaign included Mini Arcade versions of two games: Rainbow Brite Journey to Rainbow Land and Robotech: The Macross Saga.
Now, these machines are about to get a much wider reach than Kickstarter. Coleco has partnered with Arcade1Up to create new Mini Arcade units and sell them nationwide, utilizing Arcade1Up’s retail and licensing connections.
The Mini Arcade units also bring something new to the Arcade1Up lineup, as they are more portable and take up less space than original Arcade1Up machines or its Countercade machines.
“The design of the Coleco Mini Arcade lends itself to customization in controller layout and internal hardware,” says Coleco Partner Chris Cardillo. “This means gaming opportunities are infinite – only limited by the scope of the designers. It is going to be interesting to see what Arcade1Up does with the Coleco Mini Arcade lineup, I am sure fans will be just as excited as I am.”
The new Coleco Mini Arcade machines were originally going to launch at retail this year, but they have been delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
