The Best Basketball Arcade Games
It's always super fun to have a basketball arcade game on hand for those times when you want to get a little friendly one-on-one going with your loved ones. A Friday with cool drinks and some casual competition is actually our idea of the perfect night. Here, we've compiled a list of our favorite basketball arcade games.
What to Look For
If you’re having trouble knowing where to begin, you’ve come to the right place. When it comes to choosing the right arcade game for your home, we like to focus on size, budget, durability, ease of installation, and material. For example, many of our favorites come from Pop-A-Shot, as their models all sport reliable electronic elements, durable designs, and accessible prices. But for those with extra-limited funds, we recommend checking out Lanos’ budget-friendly option. If you want to explore more of our top picks, read on.
Pop-A-Shot Basketball Arcade Game
Improve your skills
For the coolest sound effects, there’s no better pick than the Pop-A-Shot basketball arcade game. Electronic buzzers, an announcer, and other fun effects make this game extra exciting, especially when you’re playing with others. It also has 10 individual game options, so you can switch up how you play. And, thanks to its sturdy construction, you can expect this arcade game to stand strong against wear and tear.
Pros:
- The ten different game modes help mix up the challenge, so it never feels repetitive.
- The electronics are top-notch, with six audio selections, realistic basketball effects, and an announcer.
- It comes with everything you need, including four mini balls and a pump.
- Made from sturdy steel tubes and powder coating, the hardware resists rust and damage.
Cons:
- The net is lightweight, so it can occasionally get tangled.
Pop-A-Shot Dual Shot Basketball Arcade Game
Premium balling
If you want a high-quality arcade basketball game that will last through years of competitive shooting, we recommend this option from Pop-A-Shot. The durable construction is primarily thanks to the rust-resistant steel frame and the thick nylon ramp. Better yet, the mechanics of this dual-net game are precise and reliable. The score counter is accurate and responsive, while an audio jack lets you plug in speakers for audio cues and scorekeeping. The price may be a bump up from most of the other budget-friendly options out there, but we think the Pop-A-Shot dual-shot arcade game is worth every penny.
Pros:
- The two nets allow side-by-side competition.
- It comes pre-programmed with 16 different games.
- It folds in to reduce the footprint when not in use.
- It comes with seven quality basketballs and a pump.
Cons:
- Assembly can be pretty time-consuming, though it’s relatively straightforward.
Lanos Basketball Arcade Game, Double Electronic Hoop Shot
This double hoop game has everything you need to have a good time without breaking the bank. Another great overall option, this arcade game sports top-notch performance, durability, storage capabilities, and design. This classic-style arcade game has eight individual games, from individual skill challenges to two-player games that improve your speed, skill, and accuracy. Better yet, it’s built from durable steel tubing and comes equipped with a heavy-duty nylon ball return ramp that doesn’t rip easily.
Pros:
- It has eight individual games that help you improve your accuracy and shooting skills.
- It includes six basketballs, so one-on-one competitors will always have a free ball to draw from
- The electronic scorer and shot clock are surprisingly accurate and reliable.
- The easy installation and collapsable design make this easy to break out and put away.
Cons:
- It can be pretty noisy, especially with the chaos of multiple players.
Pop-A-Shot Single Shot Basketball Arcade Game
For the solo shooters
You don’t need two hoops to have a blast. This single-hoop game from Pop-A-Shot is the perfect way to blow off steam after a long day at work and practice your free throws. Of course, it comes with six cool games and multiple audio options, but you may be tempted to just keep shooting away. Whichever way you choose to play, rest assured that this option offers all the quality we’ve come to expect from Pop-A-Shot.
Pros:
- This is a great option for those who want to practice their free throws without an outdoor net.
- The four included balls have a great grip and bounce to them.
- The collapsable design lets you store it when not in use, saving precious floor space. And because it’s narrower than the dual-net games, it may fit more easily in your home.
Cons:
- The ball retrieval area may be kind of hard to reach for little kids.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I look for in a basketball arcade game?
First, it’s important to keep size and budget in mind. Always measure the space in your home to ensure that it’s the right size. Other factors to consider include the design, construction material, and assembly. You’ll likely want a foldable design in case you need to pack up your game and store it away. Also, make sure that the materials used are durable and high-quality, not cheap. Finally, consider how many people will be able to play simultaneously. Often, these games are the most fun when two people can compete side-by-side.
What are the benefits of owning a basketball arcade game?
Regardless of how old you are, having a basketball arcade game at home can make for a fun way to get that competitive energy flowing and have a good time with friends and family. You can even use it as a way to improve hand-eye coordination and exercise your speed. Best of all, you’ll save money that would otherwise have been spent at the arcade.
Why Trust Us
With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.