How to Choose the Right Micro Player for Your Retro Gaming Collection

Quick answer

To choose the right Micro Player, start by matching the game library to your favorite arcade titles. Then consider the form factor and display size that fits your play style and collection space. For a classic single-game experience, the SPACE INVADERS Micro Player is a great pick; for multi-game variety, look to the Data East Hits Nano Player or the Retro Machine.

Building a retro gaming collection is about more than just grabbing any mini arcade. The Micro Player line offers a compact, nostalgic way to enjoy classic games, but with several options available, it helps to know what you're looking for. Whether you're a longtime fan of a specific franchise or you want a sampler of different titles, the right pick depends on a few key decisions.

This guide breaks down the important factors—game library, size, display, and portability—so you can choose a Micro Player that fits your collection and your play habits. We'll also look at a couple of alternatives, like Nano Players and the Retro Machine, to help you see the full picture.

Start with the games you love

The most important factor in choosing a Micro Player is the game library. If you have a favorite arcade classic, a single-title Micro Player gives you a dedicated, nostalgic experience. For example, the SPACE INVADERS Micro Player is perfect for fans of the 1978 alien-blasting phenomenon. It puts one iconic game front and center, letting you focus on mastering the waves of invaders.

If you prefer variety, consider a multi-game option. The Data East Hits Nano Player packs several memorable Data East titles, including BurgerTime and Bad Dudes, into a collectible handheld. This is a great way to explore different games without committing to a single franchise. Think about whether you want a deep dive into one classic or a sampler of several.

• List your top three favorite arcade games and see which Micro Player matches.
• If you're unsure, a multi-game device like the Retro Machine with 200 built-in games offers the most variety.

Consider the size and display

Micro Players are designed to be compact, but they still vary in size and screen quality. If you plan to play for longer sessions, a slightly larger display can make a big difference. The SPACE INVADERS Micro Player and the BUBBLE BOBBLE Micro Player both offer a classic micro arcade experience, but check the screen size and viewing angle to see what feels comfortable.

Nano Players, like the Data East Hits Nano Player, are even smaller and more pocket-friendly. They're great for quick gaming sessions on the go, but the smaller screen might not be ideal for extended play. Think about where you'll use the device most—at a desk, on a commute, or as a display piece on a shelf.

• Measure your shelf or pocket space before choosing between a Micro Player and a Nano Player.
• If you have a TV or monitor, check if your Micro Player has an output option for a bigger screen.

Portability and power

Portability is a big selling point for these mini arcades. The Retro Machine, for instance, is lightweight and runs on 3 AA batteries, making it easy to take anywhere. Micro Players and Nano Players are similarly portable, but their battery life and power requirements can differ. Always check the power source so you're not caught without batteries on a road trip.

If you plan to travel, a compact Nano Player might be the easiest to slip into a bag. If you want a more substantial feel, a Micro Player with a built-in screen and joystick might be worth the extra bulk. Consider how often you'll actually carry it versus keeping it at home.

• For travel, choose the smallest option that still gives you a comfortable play experience.
• Keep spare batteries on hand if your device isn't rechargeable.

Decision rules for picking your Micro Player

• If you have a favorite classic game: Choose a single-title Micro Player like the SPACE INVADERS Micro Player to get a dedicated, authentic experience. You'll get a display piece that's also a fully playable tribute.
• If you want variety in a tiny size: Go for a multi-game Nano Player like the Data East Hits Nano Player to enjoy several classics without taking up much space. A great starter for exploring different retro titles.
• If you want maximum game library: Consider the Retro Machine with 200 built-in games for the most variety, even though it's not a Micro Player form factor. Best for those who want a broad collection in one device.

Micro Player options at a glance

• SPACE INVADERS Micro Player: Stop the Invasion! Jump in your spaceship and fend off the waves of attacking enemy invaders before they land. Originally released in 1978, SPACE INVADERS impact was revolutionary, becoming an instant global phenomenon among arcade enthusiasts and introducing many others to video games. If you want a piece of arcade history, this dedicated Micro Player lets you relive the game that helped launch the golden age of arcades.
• Data East Hits Nano Player: Collectible Nano Player packed full of memorable Data East titles. MY ARCADE has teamed up with legendary game developer, Data East, to bring you some of your favorite Data East classics. From being armed with only a pepper shaker in BurgerTime to being a bad enough dude to rescue the President in Bad Dudes, this Nano Player brings you back to a time where all you needed was a quarter. This is a great choice if you want a variety of classic games in a tiny, collectible format—perfect for trying different genres without buying multiple devices.
• Retro Machine: The My Arcade RETRO MACHINE gaming system comes with 200 built-in games and requires no expensive game console. The RETRO MACHINE is lightweight, portable and lets you enjoy hours of fun gaming just about anywhere! Requires 3 AA batteries (not included). If you want the most game variety for your money, the Retro Machine's 200 built-in titles make it a versatile addition to any collection, though it's a different form factor than a Micro Player.

Who should buy what

Best for

• Collectors who want a dedicated tribute to a single iconic game like SPACE INVADERS.
• Travelers who need a pocket-sized option with multiple games, such as the Data East Hits Nano Player.

Not for

• Gamers who want a large screen or TV output—consider a full-size arcade machine or a handheld with video output.
• Those who want the absolute largest game library—look at the Retro Machine or other multi-game systems.

Choosing the right Micro Player comes down to your favorite games, your preferred size, and how you plan to play. Whether you pick a dedicated classic like SPACE INVADERS or a multi-game Nano Player, you're adding a fun piece of arcade history to your collection. Take a moment to match your choice to your habits, and you'll enjoy it for years to come.